Avon Tail Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is the trail accessible for wheelchair?
A. Most of the trail is not accessible. It is primarily an unpaved foot path, about a meter wide with uneven surface, rocks, roots, ground hog holes, stiles and edges of cultivated crop land. Parts of the trail in St. Marys and parts of the Stratford Side Trail are paved.
Q. Is this a public trail?
A. Most of the trail crosses private land with the permission of generous landowners. Respect the privacy of landowners and walk only on the marked trail. Please read the Assumption of Risk and Trail User’s Code found in the Terms of Use page here.
Q. Do I have to be a member to walk on the trail?
A. No, you may walk alone, with your family, or join an organized hike with one of our hike leaders. If you enjoy the trail, we hope you will purchase a membership or make a donation as the upkeep of the trail involves expenses.
Q. Where can I find an trail access point?
A. Trail access points are shown on both the free ONDAGO mobile app and in Avon Trail Guide, Edition 9. This guide can be purchased from the Shop. Parking areas near trail access points are shown with GPS co-ordinates. Access points are marked by a 3-inch square diamond, usually mounted at eye level on a tree.
Q. What are GPS coordinates?
A. GPS coordinates are longitude and latitude references (ex. 43.296425,-80.973462) found in the list of ‘Sample The Avon Trail’ under the ‘Hike & Events’ tab. Type these numbers, exactly as punctuated, into your Google Maps direction field.
Q. Where can I purchase an Avon Trail Guide?
A. The Avon Trail Guide, Edition 9, is available for purchase online at Shop . The guide consists of 11 printable maps in two different formats, showing the complete Avon Trail and all side trails. Each map also includes narrative details.
Q. Can I take my dog on the trail?
A. Dogs on leash are allowed unless otherwise specifically posted. You must contact and seek Group Leader permission before taking you dog on an organized hike.
Q. Can I ride a bicycle on the trail?
A. Except for the Lake Trail in Wildwood where bicycles are permitted, our agreement with landowners is that the Avon Trail is a foot path. Bicycles or motorized vehicles are not allowed.
Q. Can I forage along the trail?
A. No. The Trail User’s Code states the hiker refrains from picking mushrooms, wild leeks and other edibles from along the trail. Please respect that you are on private property; these edibles do not belong to you.
Q. Are there poisonous plants?
A. Yes. Though not prevalent, poison ivy, giant hogweed, cow’s parsnip and stinging nettles are found in some locales. Stay on the trail, and keep feet and legs covered.
Q. Are there ticks along the trail?
A. Ticks have been reported in SW Ontario. We have not had reports of ticks along the Avon Trail, but that could change anytime. Keep legs and feet covered. Check for ticks after walking the trail, particularly if walking through long grass.
Q. Can I camp along the trail?
A. There are camping facilities in Wildwood CA. Other than that, camping is not permitted along the trail.
Q. Are there accommodations available along the trail?
A. There are some B&Bs, motels and other options along the length of the trail. We do not keep a list.
Q. Can I get a badge for hiking the Avon Trail from one end to the other?
A. Yes, please see the ‘Shop’ for a picture and the requirements for earning an End-to-end badge.
Q. What opportunities are there to volunteer with the trail?
A. There are very satisfying opportunities to volunteer depending on a person’s interests, experience and abilities. Learn more…