The Halliburton Highlands, known for its stunning landscapes of trees, water, and rock, offers an adventurous and challenging trail system that any ATV enthusiast would love to explore. Over the past three days, we’ve experienced firsthand the rugged beauty of this region, riding atop the Canadian Shield and putting our skid plates to the test.
The Haliburton ATV Association (HATVA) boasts over 1,700 kilometers of trails that traverse Halliburton County, Muskoka, Madawaska, Kawartha, and Peterborough. The diverse terrain includes rocks, mud, elevations, and forests, providing a thrilling ride for all levels of ATV riders. The trails are easily accessible from multiple directions, and riders can find all necessary services along the way, making it convenient to plan a day trip or an extended saddlebag tour.
For our stay, we chose the South Wind Motel just outside Minden as our base. The motel’s proximity to the trails allowed us to quickly dive into our off-road adventures. Owner Ray has even built trails on the motel’s property, offering guests the opportunity to start riding right away. Ray’s local expertise and willingness to help guests plan their rides ensure that everyone has a memorable experience.
The HATVA trail map system includes markings for different levels of difficulty, from easy to extreme. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride on the rail trail or a challenging run like the outhouse run, there’s something for everyone. Ray’s personalized advice helps riders choose the best routes based on their skills and preferences.
The Canadian Shield provides a unique riding experience with its mix of rock, mud, and water. The trails here are among the best and most challenging, attracting riders from all over. One rider shared, “I’ve been riding here for 20 years, and this area offers the most experienced and best riding I’ve ever done.”
The HATVA operates on a user-pay system, where memberships can be purchased online or through various partners along the trails. This system ensures well-maintained, signed, and mapped trails, with community leaders actively involved in enhancing the ATV experience. Supporting the HATVA membership program contributes to the longevity and quality of the trail system.
For those looking for a mix of challenges and scenic beauty, the Halliburton Highlands is a perfect destination. The trails cater to different skill levels, with many offering optional paths for easier navigation. The sense of accomplishment upon completing a trail here is unmatched.
Beyond the trails, the region offers plenty of amenities and experiences. Riders can enjoy breakfast at Tim Hortons, have lunch in the town of Haliburton, or explore local establishments for dinner and entertainment. The HATVA trails provide access to these towns, making it easy to combine riding with other activities.
The Halliburton Highlands remains one of our favorite places to ride, offering everything that makes this part of Canada special. The people, places, and trails create an exceptional riding experience that will leave you wanting more.
For more information on the Haliburton ATV Association and to purchase memberships, visit Haliburton ATV Association.
