Northwestern Ontario Recreational Trails Association

Connecting Communities by Trail

Founded in May 2021, the NorthWestern Ontario Recreational Trails Association (NWORTA) is a volunteer-driven nonprofit dedicated to building destination-worthy, multi-use trails across the District of Thunder Bay and beyond. Our vision is simple: to connect communities from Nipigon to Atikokan through a free-to-use, year-round trail network.

These trails are open to hikers, mountain bikers, snowshoers, and backcountry skiers, with plans to accommodate horseback riding and dog sledding on certain stretches, in future phases. Wherever possible, trails are designed to showcase the breathtaking landscapes of Northwestern Ontario.

As the network grows, each completed section will become part of the Trans Canada Trail—the longest connected trail system in the world—enhancing the land-based path to complement the Path of the Paddle water route.

More Than Just Trails

Through initiatives like our “Discover the Trail” guided hikes, we help people of all ages experience the joy of being outdoors in our region. Held from spring through fall, these events offer a welcoming introduction to the trail system and help foster a deeper connection to the land.

Support the Trail. Build the Future.

Our trails are free for everyone to use, but they aren’t free to build or maintain. We rely on annual memberships ($20 single / $30 family) and donations to fund insurance, trail upkeep, and to match grant opportunities. Every dollar goes directly into keeping this network safe, accessible, and growing.

Visit our Memberships page to become a member or make a donation today.

Together, we’re building something that will last for generations