Georgian Trail: Collingwood to Thornbury Bike Ride (With Snack Stops)
- Living Water Resorts
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Why Ride the Georgian Trail This Fall
Autumn brings a crisp breeze, vibrant colour along the escarpment, and quieter paths, all making this the perfect time to hop on the trail. The Georgian Trail is a converted rail-line path that spans around 33-34 km one-way between Collingwood and Meaford, passing through Thornbury.
For a fun day-ride, we suggest starting in Collingwood and pedalling to Thornbury (approx 21 km by some sources) for halfway fun and refuelling.
Because you’re based at Living Water Resorts (right in Collingwood), the trail is literally on your doorstep. Stay with us, ride in, explore, then relax.
Route Overview
Start: Harbourview Park,
Collingwood (foot of Birch Street) — well signed.
Finish (stop point): Thornbury village (or continue to Meaford if you’re ambitious)
Distance: ~21 km each way for Collingwood→Thornbury. Full Collingwood→Meaford is ~33-34 km.
Trail surface: Mostly hard-packed, crushed gravel/stone dust. Flat to gently rolling – very accessible.
Scenery: Georgian Bay shoreline, forest stretches, farmland, the occasional trestle bridge (such as at Beaver River near Thornbury) | enjoy the diverse visuals and ideal stops for photos.
Access Points & Useful Stops
Craigleith Provincial Park (~10 km west of Collingwood) | great for a scenic pause, beach view, stretch.
Thornbury Harbour / Bayview Park | perfect for a snack or light lunch; you’ve arrived!
Parking & Trailheads | if you prefer to start from a different point, there are ~30+ access points between Collingwood and Meaford.
Snack & Refuel Stops Worth Mentioning
In Thornbury: After your ride, pull into a local café or patio and treat yourself.
Back at Living Water Resorts: Cap off your ride with dinner at Lakeside Seafood & Grill. In fact, if you’re here during the fall season, pair your ride with our Fallicious dining experience, a delicious way to make the adventure full-circle.
Hydration & gear tip: Bring a refillable bottle (water stations are sparse), pack a light snack (granola bar or fruit), and wear a helmet.
Pro Tips for the Ride
Bike type: Hybrid or gravel bike works best because of the crushed stone surface. Road bikes with very thin tyres may not be ideal.
Time it right: Mid-morning start gives you daylight to finish, enjoy Thornbury, and return before dusk.
Weather watch: Fall means shorter days; check forecast and pack a light jacket because waterfront breezes can be cool.
One-way logistics: If staying at Living Water, you can ride to Thornbury, enjoy the village, then ride back. For a full loop to Meaford, plan accordingly (or arrange a shuttle).
Photography stops: The trestle bridge near Beaver River, the shoreline near Craigleith Park, and the village scene in Thornbury offer great visual moments.
Rest day follow-up: After your ride, treat yourself with a spa session at Living Water Resorts or simply unwind by the bay.
Where to Stay
Choosing Living Water Resorts means you convert a “nice ride day” into a full-stay experience: waterfront views, comfort, dinner at Lakeside (plus Fallicious if you time it right), and being right on the trail network. You’re minutes from the route start, and minutes after your ride you’re relaxing. It’s the full stay-ride-refuel-relax loop.
Quick Checklist for Your Ride Day
Helmet, gloves, sunglasses
Tire pressure check & basic tools
Water + snack
Layers: breathable base, light windbreaker
Map/phone (trail is well-marked but good to carry)
Camera/phone for stops
Reservation for dinner at Lakeside if you’re doing Fallicious
Ready to Hit the Road?
If you’re looking for an active escape that doesn’t compromise on comfort or style, hop on the Georgian Trail this week. Ride out from Collingwood, soak in Autumn’s colour, stop in Thornbury for a snack, then return home to lakeside luxury. Elevate the day with our Fallicious dinner at Lakeside Seafood & Grill for the perfect reward.
Want more info on the trail map? Check the Simcoe County PDF here: Georgian Trail map
See you on the trail — and at dinner! 🚴♂️🍂