Cataraqui Trail: West Segment

Dogs Leashed

Features Historical Significance · Wildlife

• Cataraqui Trail (CT)

The 104 km non-motorized trail contains a variety of geographical features and has a historical past. Built upon the former CN rail line, the multi-use trail runs east to west and passes through a number of communities including Portland, Chaffey's Locks, Sydenham and Harrowsmith. Today, the recreational trail is used by cyclists, runners, horse riders, snowmobilers, cross-country skiers and people just out for a stroll, enjoying spotting wildlife and the natural surrounding.

The Cataraqui Trail contains three segments: Cataraqui Trail: East Segment, Cataraqui Trail: Central Segment, and this segment.

This segment of the trail begins in Sydenham then climbs slightly to the intersection of the K&P Trail, before reaching Highway 38 at Harrowsmith (km 78). It passes through the Stone Mills communities of Yarker, Camden East (with parking at km 95) and Newburgh, all of which, including Harrowsmith, contain stores. The end of the trail finishes in the hamlet of Strathcona.

This trail is part of a regional trail network and connects with K&P Trail (Frontenac Segment) and Rideau Trail: Sydenham Segment.

When crossing the agricultural landscape, the trail right-of-way is generally bordered on both sides by a narrow, natural hedgerow of sun-tolerant native trees, shrubs and plants. This provides ideal habitat for a wide variety of insects, birds and small mammals. In swampy areas, the right-of-way offers a dry respite to the surrounding marshes much appreciated by egg-laying turtles who will take advantage of the gravelly banks along the edge of the trail.

In forested areas, the trail provides sunlit edges to the otherwise shaded forest floor. These edges permit the growth of sun-tolerant vegetation such as wild apple trees, berry bushes and grass, thereby enhancing the forage possibilities for numerous animal species. The observant trail user will encounter: a variety of birds including herons, ospreys and turkeys; several varieties of turtle including the snapping turtle; several species of snake including the endangered black rat snake; and numerous mammals such as mice, chipmunks