Tom Thomson cycle route

This is an alternate cycling route that follows only paved and gravel roads and avoids the rougher terrain of the pathway area. The Tom Thomson Trail is a 3-season, hiking, cycling and horseback riding route between Owen Sound and Meaford. Starting at the Tom Thomson Trail kiosk next to the boat launch at the north end of The Bayshore Community Centre Parking Lot, the trail follows paved roads, woodland trails and gravel roads across the Niagara Escarpment and rolling farmland overlooking Georgian Bay. The varied terrain and many access points over the 40 km route provide opportunities for bird-watchers, mountain bikers, photographers, geo-cachers and hikers. One of the highlights is passing the historic Leith Church and the cemetery where Tom Thomson is thought to be buried. The suspicious death of this influential Canadian artist in Algonquin Park in 1917 remains a mystery in Canadian history. The Tom Thomson Trail recognizes 2017 is the 100th anniversary of Tom Thomson’s death. Spring, summer and autumn excursions along the Tom Thomson Trail offer changing colours in the hardwood forests, views of century farms along country roads and opportunities to enjoy the unique landscapes of the Niagara Escarpment.