Use of rare trails are free!

At present, we have a few trails which are open to the public. Perhaps the most recognized trail at rare is the Cliffs and Alvars. This rare trail, at points, transects The Grand Trunk trail - which is part of a greater trail system maintained by The City of Cambridge. A wood-chipped based walking trail which runs adjacent to the Grand River along scenic cliffs and throughout second growth forests, the Cliffs and Alvars is closed to public access between November 15th and March 31st as it is a High Risk Zone for roosting Bald Eagles. When opened, the trail is accessed directly off the City of Cambridge Grand Trunk Trail at the George St. parking area or at rare's 1840's Slit Barn (768 Blair Rd.) 

Springbank Farm also hosts a community trail which is open to the public year round. This trail loops the perimeter of rare's community gardens, providing a beautiful and educational setting. Come see for yourself! Whether you view the demonstration gardens or the breathtaking scene of the confluence of the Grand and Speed Rivers, this setting is perfect for the beginning hiker who wants peace of mind and relaxation.

As research and restoration continues at rare, new public trails may be opened and boardwalks and observation towers added for public enjoyment.
 
Please stay on the trail and leave only footsteps, take only pictures! Poison Ivy grows along the edge of the pathways in certain areas.

Dog walking is not permitted on the Cliffs and Alvars trail or at Springbank. We ask that dogs be walked along the Grand Trunk Trail only. Please keep dogs on a leash to protect wildlife and visitors.

Bicycles are not allowed on rare trails as cycling is damaging to the trails and risky for the cyclist. Cyclists – please keep to the Grand Trunk Trail.

Geo-caching is not permitted at rare as it impacts vegetation and soils significantly.

Please help us educate others in our community about protecting and respecting this incredible natural resource.  Please report any signs of abuses of the use of rare trails by calling 519-650-9336.

Our trails are designed to give you better access to the natural beauty of rare, while encouraging education and spreading ecological awareness. These trails also allow the communtiy to see the rare, or uncommon, elements which exist in here; limestone cliffs, alvars, floodplains, diverse flora and fauna, historical buildings and the confluence of aboriginal transportation routes.

Click here to open a PDF of rare's aerial map with trail network displayed.