For over 20 years, this network of trails has been used informally by residents without incident. Recent actions taken by the City of Guelph and trail technologist Daniel Waters appear to focus on removing or restricting access to these trails.
Questions have been raised regarding the prioritization of resources and objectives. Specifically, concerns have been expressed about the role of a publicly funded trail technologist in exploring methods of trail closure rather than strategies for increasing community engagement with natural spaces.
There are also reports of physical barriers being placed across public pathways, including the placement of large and potentially hazardous logs. These actions have prompted debate about the goals of current trail management practices and trail staff plus the wisdom of such actions.
Observers have questioned why growing public use of these spaces is being met with increased restriction rather than efforts to create a sustainable, collaborative trail system that serves both ecological and recreational interests.
Additionally, the absence of public consultation on these changes has raised concerns about transparency and accountability in the decision-making process, particularly in relation to the use of municipal funding and staff time.
Honestly, it’s hard to imagine what kind of thinking leads someone to see a well-used, beloved trail network and decide, “This needs to be dismantled,” rather than, “This is working — how can we collaborate to make it even better?” It’s a choice that feels not just out of touch, but actively hostile to the community. It's a choice that makes you question how we end up with these people in charge of our parks and trails.
While the City of Guelph has cited environmental sensitivity and the presence of a wetland as reasons for trail closures, it is important to consider the broader context and the community's interest in maintaining access to natural spaces. A more balanced approach could involve working collaboratively with local users to minimize trail overuse while preserving an alternative network. For further community perspectives, please visit this page.
Trail closures should be an avenue of last resort, when all other options have been extinguished. Let us not be passive, let your voice be heard. Share this information with your friends and anyone who loves to be in the outdoors.