Lakefield Trail

The Lakefield Trail, completed in late 2000, is an 8.5-kilometre multi-use pathway that winds through the Village of Lakefield and connects to the Trans-Canada Trail via the Peterborough County Rotary Trail. Fully accessible, the trail features interpretive signs that highlight Lakefield's rich history, including its literary legacy and canoe-building heritage.

Along the eastern section of the trail, visitors can explore Lakefield's vibrant downtown or enjoy the tranquil west side of the Otonabee River, where the trail skirts the southern edge of Katchewanooka Lake. Here, the Imagine the Marsh Conservation Area leads to the Doug Sadler Viewing Tower, a favourite spot for birdwatching with panoramic views of the marshland. The southwestern loop offers a scenic journey past elegant homes and ends at Lock 26 on the Trent-Severn Waterway.

Whether for a serene stroll, a leisurely bike ride, or an invigorating jog, the Lakefield Trail caters to all levels of activity and showcases the natural and cultural diversity of the area. It also serves as a living tribute to the community's efforts, with plaques, memorial benches, and interpretive signs along its route, all visible through an interactive map.

The trail was conceived by the Village of Lakefield Special Events Committee to celebrate Lakefield's 125th Anniversary and the new millennium. Through a combination of government grants, community fundraising, and countless volunteer hours, the trail was built in phases from 1999 to 2000, becoming a beloved feature of Lakefield.