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Heron Trail

Location

Mashkinonje Provincial Park in Lavigne

Ownership

MNR - Ontario Parks

Management

Friends of Mashkinonje and Municipality of French River

Length

4.9 km

Difficulty: (1-easy; 2-moderate; 3-difficult)

2

Supported Activities

hiking, snowshoeing

Amenities

parking, lookout

Surface

moderate, rolling

Rules for Use: 

- no bicycle or motorized use of trails
- pets must be kept on a leash
- removal of natural or historic objects; damage or defacing of property; and litter prohibited under Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Act

Safety Considerations:

- the official park status is non-operating and the park is not staffed by Ontario Parks, but it is maintained in partnership with community volunteers
- respect the park and other park visitors
- become familiar with backcountry travel and techniques, safety practices, and ethics
- take appropriate clothing, food, water, navigational aids, and a first aid kit when hiking or paddling
- protection from biting insects is recommended during spring and summer
- the park is the natural habitat for moose, bears, wolves, and bobcats, to name a few, so when hiking, pay attention and watch for wildlife

Maintenance:

- twice a year

Description:

Meander along rock ridges and take advantage of the many elevated lookouts. View bog species that have been adapted to the special acidic conditions. Great bird watching opportunities exist along the entire route. This trail links to 27.7 km of trails networks.  

Directions: 

From the HWY 11/17 junction near Seymour Street, take HWY 17 northwest for 44 km.  Turn left at Lavac Road, left again at Beaudry Road, and right at LeClair Road for 6 km.  Turn left onto HWY 64, and travel for 25 km until Mashkinonje Provincial Park appears on your right.