Middlesex County Trails Guide
Purpose of Project: The Middlesex County Trails Guide was created to showcase and promote the array of outdoor recreational opportunities available throughout Middlesex County. This comprehensive guide features a variety of activities including canoeing, walking, running, hiking, pet-friendly trails, cycling, mountain biking, fishing, birdwatching, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, tobogganing, horseback riding, and swimming. Highlighted in the guide is Skunk’s Misery, one of the largest and most ecologically significant forested areas in the Carolinian Region of Southwestern Ontario. Each trail is rated using a system from easy to difficult, ensuring accessibility for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts.
Effectiveness / Meeting Objectives: Since its release, the Trails Guide has effectively connected residents and visitors with the natural beauty and recreational opportunities within Middlesex County. The combination of a printed guide and an interactive digital version has provided accessible information on trail locations, difficulty ratings, and detailed descriptions. QR codes linked to individual conservation authority websites offer users additional trail details and safety information, enhancing their overall trail experience.
Challenges & Changes Made: Developing a comprehensive Trails Guide involved collaboration with multiple conservation authorities, lower tier municipalities and stakeholders, each overseeing different trail networks within the County. Challenges included coordinating trail information with multiple sources and ensuring accuracy across all entries. Continuous updates and feedback mechanisms were implemented to enhance the guide’s usability, safety information, and educational content.
Target Audience: The guide caters to a wide audience including outdoor enthusiasts, families, tourists, and residents seeking recreational activities in Middlesex County. By highlighting diverse trail options and providing essential safety information, the guide promotes outdoor recreation while fostering environmental stewardship and community engagement. It serves as a valuable resource for individuals looking to explore and connect with nature in a safe and enjoyable manner.
Specifics as detailed in the Awards Categories: The Middlesex County Trails Guide aligns with the Publications Award Category by exemplifying excellence in promoting outdoor recreation, environmental conservation, and community engagement. The guide’s innovative use of technology, including QR codes and digital resources, enhances user experience and supports sustainable tourism practices. Its comprehensive coverage of local trail systems underscores Middlesex County’s commitment to preserving natural landscapes and promoting healthy lifestyles.
Sustainability of Your Project: The Trails Guide’s sustainability is grounded in its ongoing impact on promoting outdoor recreation and environmental awareness. By encouraging responsible use of natural resources and promoting safety through educational initiatives, the guide supports sustainable tourism practices. Information on Middlesex County-owned forests and collaboration with conservation authorities highlight local conservation efforts and promote stewardship among trail users, ensuring the preservation of natural habitats for future generations.
Supporting Documents – File Size Too Large to Attach: Please visit the URL to the online interactive flip book guide that is too big to attach as a PDF.
Trails Guide – https://online.fliphtml5.com/lywfa/bkpf/#p=1
