Copeland Forest: A Natural Playground

4.6 (625)

Explore Copeland Forest: A vast Ontario wilderness offering year-round outdoor adventures, from hiking and biking to skiing and wildlife viewing.

Home
Canada
Golden Horseshoe
Copeland Forest

Copeland Forest, a sprawling 4,400-acre natural area near Hillsdale, Ontario, offers a diverse landscape of lush forests, rolling hills, and wetlands. Popular for outdoor recreation, it features extensive trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, attracting nature enthusiasts year-round.

A brief summary to Copeland Forest

Ingram Rd, Hillsdale, Ontario, L0L 1V0, CA
Click to display
Click to display

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Download a trail map or use a trail app like Trailforks to navigate the extensive network of trails.
Wear appropriate footwear and dress in layers, as weather conditions in the forest can change quickly.
Be aware of hunting seasons and wear bright clothing, especially during the spring and fall.
Check yourself for ticks after your visit.
Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities within the forest.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Horseshoe Adventure Park

Horseshoe Adventure Park: Outdoor Thrills in Horseshoe Valley

Horseshoe Resort

Horseshoe Valley Resort: Four Seasons Adventure

Ossossane National Historic Site Of Canada

Discover the Rich History at Ossossane National Historic Site

Getting There

Driving

From Hillsdale, head south on Penetanguishene Rd (Highway 93), then turn east onto Ingram Rd. Continue for approximately 5.5 km. Look for a large parking lot (P2) on the south side of Ingram Rd, just east of Line 4. This is a main access point for the forest. Parking is free. Be aware that parking may be limited during peak times.
Walking

If starting from Horseshoe Valley Resort, the easiest access point is the Horseshoe Valley Nordic Centre on the north side of Horseshoe Valley Road. From there, follow the trails across the road into Copeland Forest. Note that some trails may be shared with mountain bikers and other users.

Discover more about Copeland Forest

Copeland Forest, a vast and varied natural area in Simcoe County, presents a captivating landscape for outdoor enthusiasts. This 4,400-acre forest is a multi-use area owned by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests, offering a diverse terrain of dense forests, rolling hills, and expansive wetlands.Historically, the area was once a prime logging location, with the community of Martinville established in 1907 to support the industry. Today, remnants of old homesteads and fences can still be found, offering glimpses into the past. The Copeland Forest Friends Association plays a vital role in conserving the forest's natural integrity while promoting recreational use.Today, Copeland Forest is a haven for outdoor activities. Over 70 km of trails wind through the forest, catering to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. The Ganaraska Hiking Trail also passes through the forest, providing options for both short and long-distance treks. In winter, the forest transforms into a snowy playground for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Bird watching is another popular activity, with opportunities to spot a variety of bird species amidst the diverse flora.While exploring, visitors should be aware of the local wildlife, including the potential for encountering bears. Staying on marked trails and taking necessary precautions ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.