A trip to cottage country Ontario is all about the natural beauty you’ll be surrounded by: from the stunning lake views outside your Ontario cottage rental to the parks and beaches, conservation areas, and more, there’s a lot to see and do.
One of Georgina Bay’s best outdoor activities is Copeland Forest. Located in Simcoe County, Ontario, this is a wonderful attraction for those seeking to hike, bike, mountain bike, hunt, fish, or simply take in lush nature at its best.
About Copeland Forest
Owned by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests, Copeland Forest is a Resource Management Area in Simcoe County. Beautiful in all seasons, this high-quality upland forest is what is left of what was once a continuous forest in southern Ontario and today attracts thousands of visitors who partake in various outdoor activities.
From its towering pines and wide array of wildflowers to birds, amphibians, and other wildlife, Copeland is a popular spot for everything from bird watching to snowshoeing. Despite the constant human activity, much attention is paid to the forest’s natural beauty and ecosystems, and much is done to keep them uncompromised.
Things to Do
As you would expect, there is no shortage of things to do in one of the largest upland forests in Ontario.
The sheer size of Copeland makes it one of the largest publicly owned forests that allows hunting and fishing. Much of the undisturbed forest is open to hunting, and various wetlands and other bodies of water, such as the Ducks Unlimited Pond, a trout pond, and the headwaters of Coldwater River, provide ample space for fishing. The western portion of the forest is accessible for hunting and distanced from the eastern side, which is where most of the Ontario hiking and biking trails, skiing, and horseback riding are enjoyed.
There are ten trails for hikers in Copeland Forest, with five being easy and five being moderate. These loop hiking trails are generally easily navigated, and you can even tailor your own loop if desired.
Whether you’re bicycling or mountain biking, you’ll find several beginner to advanced trails through the forest terrain. The same for those seeking to participate in snow sports during the winter months in Copeland Forest: you’ll find trails for both beginner and advanced cross-country skiers and snowshoers. Some of these trails extend from Horseshoe Resort through an agreement with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests. You’ll also find trails for fat bikes!
Plan Your Visit!
Planning your dream getaway to Ontario doesn’t have to be difficult. With CottageLINK Rental Management, it’s simple! Just view our Georgian Bay and Simcoe cottage rentals, reserve your favorite, and prepare for an unforgettable trip to Ontario! Book your stay today!
For winter trails, it is best to enter from the parking areas off Ingram Road or Line 5, as you can access various trails from these sites without disturbing the groomed ski trails maintained by Horseshoe Resort. Only purchasing a trail pass allows you to use these ski trails.
Copeland Forest Friends
The nonprofit Copeland Forest Friends Association was formed in October 2015 to represent all recreational groups equally and preserve the integrity of the forest. The association is instrumental in hosting activities and initiatives directed toward the sustainability of Copeland Forest.
In June 2021, for instance, Copeland Forest Friends imposed a moratorium on the building of new trails, as many felt the forest is saturated with trails. Funds for Copeland Forest Friends are achieved through annual membership donations.
If you expect to take advantage of the many activities available at Copeland, be sure to check out our nearby Simcoe cottage rentals so you won’t have far to travel to this lush upland forest.
