Highlights of Muskoka Trails

Late 1970’s – Trails in Muskoka started to become an idea for the municipalities

Early 1980’s – Beautification projects in some of Muskoka’s downtowns (Some projects took years to complete.)

Late 1980’s – When trails really started in Muskoka, a project sparked by Dr. David Kent (Dr. Kent worked with municipalities and schools to motivate families to become more physically.)

1992 – A Recreational Trails bylaw was passed.

1993 – Quality Daily Physical Activity movement driven by Dr. Kent

1994 – Councillors who were handling trails felt that what was really needed was a citizens’ advisory group, which inspired the creation of the Parkland and Trails Committee (Bracebridge).

2000 – MTC helped to coordinate mapping of Trans Canada Trail through Muskoka

2005 – MTC hosts Muskoka Trails Summit (April). 200+ in attendance. Creation of Strategic Mapping for MTC.

2005 – MTC provided input to trail access to Bracebridge Sportsplex and High School.

2006 – Go for Green facilitates workshop on Active Transportation.

2006 – Active Transportation workshop sparked creation of Muskoka Active Transportation Committee (MATC) (became a part of the Muskoka Trails Council.)

2006 – District of Muskoka creates reserve Active Transportation Fund – $200,000/year. Council strikes it’s own subcommittee. (Fall)

2007 – MTC became an incorporated not-for-profit body in 2007. (June 29, 2007)

2007 – Active Communities Workshop. (Summer)

2007 – MTC hosts Strategic Planning workshop facilitated by Muskoka Tourism Marketing Manager. (Fall)

2007 – MATC hosts Active Community Design Workshop with OHHC. (November)

2008 – Input into High Falls Road reconstruction project. Result – paves shoulders, AT route designation, and Share the Road signage.

2008 – MTC hires first Regional Trails Coordinator. (FedNor Funded Internship)

2009 – MTC received federal charitable status.

2009 – Secured funding for Trans Canada Trail upgrades through TCT Ontario.

2009 – Hosted successful Muskoka’s First Annual Amazing Race. (August)

2010 – MTC hired second Regional Trails Coordinator. (Ontario Trillium Foundation)

2010 – Annual General Meeting, Launched MTC Website, Passport to Trails Challenge, Second Annual Amazing Race, Muskoka’s Favourite Trail Mix, Map Books, Trans Canada Trail Funding, Summer Students.

2010 – Launched MTC Twitter and Facebook.

2010 – Applied for and was granted Healthy Community Fund for MTC Sustainability ($110,000).

2011 – Hired third Regional Trails Coordinator. (FedNor Funded Internship)

2011 – Third Annual Amazing Race, Map Books, Great Muskoka Paddling Experience.

2012 – Walk to School Day, Geocaching Family Fun Day, Trek 4 Treasures, Muskoka’s Favourite Trail Mix.