The Blue Mountain/Collingwood area of Ontario is made for nature lovers. You’ll find many trails to explore on foot, by bike, or – during the winter – on skis or snowshoes.
Pack your bags for a stay at the VanderMarck Boutique Hotel. We offer luxurious accommodations near some fabulous Blue Mountain trails, where you can connect with nature and enjoy stunning scenery. Here are some of our favourites.
Bruce Trail: Blue Mountains Section
This massive 67.43 kilometer trail is a point-to-point (non-looped) trail that’s ideal if you want a multi-day excursion. Hiking it takes approximately 19 hours and 58 minutes, but considering all the beauty you’ll want to stop and experience along the way, it may take longer.
There are plenty of places to jump onto the trail from the VanderMarck. The Pretty River side trail access point is just 10 minutes from our front door. You can also check out the Nottawasaga Bluff Lookout loop or the Duntroon View side trail loop, both a short 15 minute drive away.
Keep an eye open for wildlife, including bears, and don’t forget your bug spray! Dogs are welcome, but they must be leashed.
Sunset Point Trail
This is the trail you want if you’re looking for a short, scenic jaunt in the sunshine and have 20 minutes to spare for a walk or hike. It’s 1.77 kilometers out and back and is only minutes from our front door. Hit Sunset Point Trail from April through October for the best weather conditions.
George Christie Outer Loop
If you have a little more time, the George Christie Outer Loop takes approximately 48 minutes from start to finish. Hike in the beautiful weather on this 3.38-kilometer-long loop.
Black Ash Trail
The Black Ash Trail takes an hour from point A to point B, so count on another hour if you’re also making the return trip on foot. It’s 3.5 kilometers each way, and you can bring your pup as long as they’re leashed. It’s fast and easy to get there from the VanderMarck. In addition to hiking, you can also go cross-country skiing (approximately 35 minutes one way) and mountain biking (about 25 minutes one way).
White’s Bay Trail
The White’s Bay Trail is an easy 35-minute out-and-back walk. Put on your sneakers and take a leisurely stroll along this trail through peak summer and fall, enjoying fabulous views. Its starting point is minutes from the hotel.
Clearview Collingwood Train Trail
The Clearview Collingwood Train Trail is one of the longest treks, taking approximately 3 hours and 9 minutes from its start to end points. If you’re cycling, it will take about 52 minutes. This dog-friendly trail is 14 kilometers each way. Like many trails in this area, the prime months to visit are April through October.
If you think you’ll return famished to the VanderMarck after such a long hike, don’t worry. Ask us about our New Room Service VM X Cabin Kitchen package.
Collingwood Circuit
This loop in Collingwood offers lovely water views. It takes about 2 hours and 11 minutes to hike the 8.2 kilometers. Depending on your cycling speed, anywhere from 12 to 25 kilometers per hour, the loop will take you between 20 and 41 minutes to complete. Keep an eye out for some of the beautiful birds in the area.
George Christie Nature Trails
The George Christie Nature Trails is another Collingwood nature gem worth visiting. This loop, which you can tackle alongside your leashed dog, takes approximately 47 minutes to complete walking. You can hike the 3.38 kilometers or snowshoe (about 1 to 1.25 hours) or cross-country ski (approximately 24 to 32 minutes) during winter. It’s an easy trip offering impressive views.
Georgian Trail
Want a full day of hiking or cross-country skiing? Get ready for an almost 8-hour, 33.63-kilometer-long hike. Cross-country skiing will take 3 to 5.5 hours, depending on your speed. The Georgian Trail is a point-to-point (not looped) moderate trail, so plan and prepare accordingly.
How Far in Advance Should I Reserve a Stay?
We recommend booking a stay at the VanderMarck as early as possible ahead of your visit. There are numerous events and activities in the area to enjoy year-round, from hiking and golfing during the warmer months to skiing in the winter. Rooms book up quickly, especially during peak season.
Need a last-minute reservation? Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information or try booking online to check room availability.
Does the VanderMarck Have Any Nature-Inspired Packages Available?
We’re so glad you asked! If you’re a nature-loving or outdoorsy guest, we encourage you to explore the following packages and activities that you can reserve during your stay at our hotel:
Feeling a little sore after one or more hikes? You may be interested in our exclusive Vortex Wellness Studio discount or the Scandinave Spa Thermal Journey Package.
Schedule Your Stay at the VanderMarck Today
Our goal at the VanderMarck is to ensure that, as our guest, you have a wonderful time while you’re in the gorgeous Blue Mountain/Collingwood area. Please let us know if there’s anything we can do to make your stay even more special. Make your reservation today or contact us if you have any questions.