The Waterfront Trail introduces pre-planned, ‘family-sized’ itineraries in the “Tastes of the Trail”

Toronto – Good news for families with children! In response to cyclists and hikers’ desire for shorter excursions, the Waterfront Trail has developed the “Tastes of the Trail”—Starter Kits featuring 5, completely preplanned and family-friendly itineraries that are a maximum of 2 hours long.

The new kits were introduced today by Marlaine Koehler, Program Director of the Waterfront Regeneration Trust. “Although many people using the Trail love the idea of riding or hiking the entire route with the 740 km End-to-End Challenge”, Marlaine said, “others have said they’d like shorter trips to take with their kids on an afternoon, or a weekend.”

Itineraries for the trips include maps, list staging areas, and suggested rest stops, and have an ‘event’ or major attraction close to its destination. Each trip offers at least 2 different options. For those with families there are routes under 5 km return and for those looking for a longer adventure, 20 km return trips. The routes are located along off-road, residential streets or quiet country roads, they’re ideal for riders of all ages and abilities.

The family-focused “Tastes of the Trail” complement the mission of the Waterfront Trail, to bring the Lake Ontario lakeshore to the people. “The Waterfront Trail and Greenway is a national and provincial resource that currently serves over six million people –including 50% of Ontario’s population”, says Marlaine Koehler. “It has helped inspire people to rediscover and improve the lakeshore, and been part of a transformation of under-utilized and environmentally degraded lands to vibrant places with businesses and jobs, parks and recreational facilities, natural habitats, cultural venues and attractions.”

The Waterfront Trust gratiously acknowledges the Ministry of Health Promotion for its generous support of the Taste of the Trail Starter's Kit.

Stay tuned for an online version of the “Tastes of the Trail” Starter Kit - coming soon to our website www.waterfronttrail.org

For more information about the Waterfront Trail or the End-to-End Challenge visit our web site at www.waterfronttrail.org

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Contacts:
Marlaine Koehler, Waterfront Regeneration Trust (416) 943-8080

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