Hit your stride in Orillia
There is truly nothing better than enjoying the shopping and dining amenities Orillia has to offer – unless it’s taking advantage of the natural beauty of our lakes and trail systems. Paddlers, anglers, hikers and cyclists who visit the area appreciate a different side to the Sunshine City through its pristine waters, smooth trails and rugged forested routes.
The area has countless paddling routes along scenic waterways for paddlers of all experience levels and stamina. Simply click on the paddling routes link, and then the route that interests you to learn its distance, average time to travel, nearby points of interest and launch points. Don’t have your own watercraft? For those who want to leisurely explore the shoreline of Lake Couchiching, A Breath of Fresh Air provides rental opportunities at reasonable hourly rates for kayaks and standup paddleboards at its downtown waterfront kiosk.
Another recent addition to Orillia’s waterfront is the fishing pier, a post-and-beam-covered structure that offers an optimal area to fish, as well as dock space for canoe and kayak access. It’s an awesome spot for people to relax with a line in the water at no cost. For those who like to get out in their boat to cast a line, lakes Simcoe and Couchiching attract anglers from all over. Lake Simcoe is known throughout the province for its lake trout and whitefish, while Lake Couchiching is known for its yellow perch, northern pike and bass. The area is also home to the famed Perch Festival that takes place every spring.
Simcoe County is a well-known and favoured destination for cyclists and Orillia’s trails along the waterfront and through neighbourhoods in the city. It’s the perfect spot to begin your journey with paved and rail trails running to other communities in every direction. Whether it’s flat and beginner-friendly you’re looking for, or hilly and challenging, the area has something for every cyclist. Looking for bike-friendly businesses to stop in at on your journey? Visit cyclesimcoe.ca to plan your routes in and around Orillia and Simcoe County, including where to eat and stay. “Orillia is the perfect basecamp for an overnight cycling getaway, with safe access to trails and on-road routes via the Orillia Millennium Trail or just a short drive to epic mountain bike single track,” says Brendan Matheson, Outdoor Experience Coordinator at Tourism Simcoe County. “Also, Orillia offers the perfect après ride experience with a wide selection of restaurants, just a short stroll from your hotel.”
If you’re looking for a challenging hike with your best furry pal, the 230-acre Scout Valley nestled between Highway 11 and Old Barrie Road (with access from Old Barrie Road, Line 15 North and Forest Home) has three loop trails and offers a phenomenal lookout with views of lakes Simcoe and Couchiching. It’s a beautiful hike through a deciduous forest for all ages.
Extend your visit by booking an overnight stay in Orillia
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