Hiking the Ontario Greenbelt & Why This Area Is So Important

While you’ve probably seen signs for it along the highway or on roadsides, many people don’t quite understand what the Ontario Greenbelt is. And to be honest – I really didn’t either for a long time. It’s one of those things that blends into the background that you don’t really think anything of. However, we need to bring it to the forefront.

The Ontario Greenbelt refers to 2 million acres of protected lands including forests, farmland, lakes, rivers and wetlands stretching from Niagara, wrapping around Southern Ontario above Toronto and finishing towards Peterborough. It’s an incredibly important area as it not only maintains our way of life but it’s also home for a plethora of wildlife as well as flora and fauna.

Plus it’s where thousands of people go to escape as they can enjoy the beauty of nature by hiking the Ontario Greenbelt.

If you’ve been following me for any length of time, you know that I’m no stranger to the outdoors. While I’m not a fierce multi-day backpacker that’s tackling Mt Kilimanjaro, hiking is one of my favourite ways to pass the time. So when I was contacted by Lorimer & Company about publishing a hiking guide, I jumped at the opportunity.

Why is The Ontario Greenbelt Important?

As I said, I knew that the Ontario Greenbelt was an important stretch of land was but I didn’t realize just how important it was until I began researching this book. This protected area is not there just for us to hike its trails!

While you should certainly check out each of the 36 amazing Ontario Greenbelt hiking trails in my guide, I encourage you to keep reading to learn just how much it positively impacts our province.

Lindz Hiking the Ontario Greenbelt

Preserves Vital Farmlands

While the Greenbelt was only established two decades ago, it plays a significant role in protecting environmental system that various species rely on – humans included. 

40% of the Ontario Greenbelt is considered farmland and they are key to growing a number of crops. Warm, favourable temperatures combined with rich soils allow us to grow a number of crops from corn to grapes. This combined with its advantageous location close to large cities allows Greenbelt farmers and businesses to support a wider population.

However, over 450,000 acres of farmland has been lost to developments in less than three decades which greatly impacts our communities. This is a direct threat to food security for Ontarians and losing more can have a detrimental impact to our food supply. Rural communities directly rely on this prime farmland to grow their crops and run their businesses, especially in areas like the Holland Marsh around Bradforst-West Gwillimbury and the Niagara Region for fruit and wine.

Safeguards Crucial Water Sources 

Did you know that the Greenbelt receives 6.5 trillion litres of water a year? It’s true! As one of the country’s most biologically rich areas, millions of Ontarians rely on the clean water found within it. The Oak Ridges Moraine does this for seven million Ontarians alone!

Both the Oak Ridges Moraine and the Niagara Escarpment not only filter but also replenish groundwater. All 33 river valleys that the Greenbelt protects safeguards essential water sources that we need for not just clean drinking water but also for keeping ecosystems happy and protection from flooding.

The Ontario Greenbelt safeguards these resources as it filters pollutants through its layers of glacial sediment, rock and soil. It also regulates the flow of various streams while supporting biodiversity within its borders. By working with various levels of government and conservation authorities, data is shared and educational resources are developed to help them both government and conservation areas so they can make informed decisions on projects that can impact the flow and quality of these water sources.

Protects Numerous Natural Ecosystems

Over 70 at-risk species are protected by the Ontario Greenbelt. Without this safeguard, their populations would continue to deteriorate and we want to keep these flora and fauna for years to come! However, invasive species are detrimental to the trees, flowers and animals which can thoroughly impact these ecosystems. They can cause irreparable damage therefore being detrimental to the Greenbelt’s crops and waterways that Ontarians depend on.

Organizations such as the Greenbelt Foundation study and report any potential or current dangers to help create a plan to combat them. They also work with Indigenous communities for additional perspectives to support these strategies. From this, resources are created to educate local communities about these invasive species which helps them be identified much quicker. Education is key to early detection and so resources are crafted to aid in the Greenbelt’s survival.

Early detection is key to protecting these lands and by creating virtual and in-person resources, it increases awareness so more eyes are on the lookout for any signs of disruption. By attending workshops and using online resources like the Invasive Species Centre website, you can aid in the fight against foreign flora and fauna. There’s even a course on Invasive Terrestrial Plants you can take to learn how to spot these intruders and ways to prevent and deter them from spreading.

Combats the Impacts of Climate Change

It’s no secret that climate change is making a huge impact on ecosystems and habitats not just in Ontario but around the world. The Greenbelt helps to combat the damage done as well as lessen any future harm. One pivotal way is by planting trees and while it may sound simple, plenty of manpower is needed for it to happen.

Trees can play various roles in fighting climate change. For example, by planting trees to create a windbreak, it stops soil from eroding, establishes a corridor for wildlife and reduces snow drifts in the winter. They can also protect water quality and create food sources therefore strengthening ecosystems when planted on shorelines. And we all know that trees increase air quality by removing carbon from the atmosphere. 

Important for Mental & Physical Well Being

As technology becomes more intertwined with our everyday lives, it becomes increasingly important to watch our media consumption. The Greenbelt provides thousands of people with a space to connect with nature, making it easier for us to disconnect from the digital world and reconnecting with what’s in front of us.

Science has shown that spending time outdoors can positively impact both our physical and mental health. Studies tell us that by enjoying activities such as hiking the Ontario Greenbelt, we can lower our blood pressure, reduce anxiety and strengthen our immune systems. You can start to enjoy these benefits by spending just 1-10 minutes outside, though aiming for two hours a week is ideal. That’s less than 20 minutes a day to boost your attention span, reduce stress hormones and improve your mood!

With so many trails spread across the Greenbelt, it means we don’t have to drive hours in order to enjoy these positive benefits.

Still Can’t Believe I’m a Published Author!

Explore its Beauty by Hiking the Ontario Greenbelt

As you can see, the Ontario Greenbelt is imperative for a number of reasons – especially for hiking. This is why I was so thrilled to write Greenbelt Trails: The 36 Best – West of Toronto, from Oakville and Hamilton to Niagara and Beyond.

This guide is meant to inspire everyone to explore these stunning trails. even if you don’t consider yourself a hiker. If you think you need to be an advanced hiker that can tackle multi-day treks then think again! Whether you’ve just started hiking or are planning a family outing with small children, there’s a trail for you. Those looking for a challenge will also find some trails that will get the blood flowing for a full day of adventure!

Each of the trails found within the book have their own unique characteristics that will have you returning again and again, especially as the seasons change. From admiring waterfalls to exploring historic ruins, I hope readers will forge a personal connection as they enjoy each of these hikes. We are incredibly fortunate to have it and we need to do our part to ensure we can enjoy it for years to come.

Where to Buy Greenbelt Trails

First, if you do choose to purchase a copy – thank you so much for your support. I still can’t believe I actually wrote a book! If you had told me 5, 10 even 2 years ago that I would be a published author, I would accuse you of pulling my chain. You never know what opportunities life will give you and I’m over the moon about this one.

Here is where you can purchase Greenbelt Trails: The 36 Best – West of Toronto, from Oakville and Hamilton to Niagara and Beyond.

Click here to purchase your copy on Indigo.

Click here to purchase your copy on Amazon.

Click here to purchase your copy directly from the publisher.

Once again, thank you so much for your support and I hope you enjoy each of these trails as much as I do. They all have a special place in my heart and it means the world to me that I get to share them with you all. Happy hiking!