The Municipality of Bluewater offers a range of ways to discover nature and local history: trails along the river and through the forest, beach access points and historic villages. When planning, it’s worth checking specific features such as trail surfaces, slopes and available facilities.

Nature Trails: Length, Surface and Elevation

Trails in the municipality vary considerably. The Taylor Trail is about one kilometre long, has a firm gravel surface and is suitable for strollers and people who use mobility aids. The Mavis Trail is a 2.5-kilometre loop through coniferous and deciduous forest. There are slopes and stairs along the way, as well as views of ravines and the Bayfield River.

A moderately difficult loop along the Bayfield River is about two kilometres long. It leads through the forest to the site of a former sawmill and river crossing; sections run over bridges and grassy and dirt paths, and there are also some steep slopes. Near Bayfield, there is also a five-kilometre loop through a wooded area with hills and streams. A short and a long route, as well as an extension to the Bayfield River, are described for this trail. The firm gravel of the Taylor Trail contrasts with the stairs and slopes on other trails—a useful distinction when choosing a route.

Klopp Tract and Commemorative Woods also offers short nature trails, including a memorial garden, a walking path through a meadow and a short forest trail. The trail may become muddy after rain. Nearby, south of Bayfield on Pavilion Road, near the intersection with Goshen Line, is Linfield Wildlife Area. Visitors can hike, birdwatch, snowshoe, cross-country ski and fish there. Some trails may be closed seasonally or due to conditions.

River, Park and Shoreline Access

River Flats Natural Area in Bayfield is located on a former mill site along the Bayfield River. The Bayfield River Valley Trail Association manages the area for the Huron Tract Land Trust Conservancy. A 0.7-kilometre walking trail passes through the site; it also has picnic areas, a canoe launch, a butterfly meadow and an osprey nesting site.

Clan Gregor Square in Bayfield has playground equipment, a pavilion, accessible washrooms, green space, a splash pad, paved paths and parking. Pioneer Park is connected to Bayfield Pier Beach. Its features include open green spaces with trees, picnic benches, mulch-surfaced paths, a lookout and stairs leading to a beach area. The park is not owned by the Municipality; it is operated by the Pioneer Park Association.

At the end of Howard Street West in Bayfield, south of Bayfield Pier Beach, there is a sandy public beach area between Delevan Street and Cameron Street. Access is via stairs; parking is available, but there are no washrooms. Visitors should avoid private property. Another beach access point is at the end of Sararas Road, on a bluff overlooking Lake Huron. Stairs lead down to the beach; there is a lookout and roadside parking. The sheltered waters around Bayfield Harbour are suitable for sailing and recreational boating.

Historic Villages and Culture

Bayfield was founded in 1832. Historic Main Street has shops, galleries, restaurants and accommodations. Zurich is also a historic village in the Municipality of Bluewater. It is close to the beach and has specialty shops, churches and parks. In the historic villages, visitors can find art and gifts by local artisans and sample local beers. Performances are held in historic village halls. You can also learn about Bluewater’s history at the Bayfield Archives and Heritage Centre.

Discover more destinations: Bayfield, Wingham, Exeter, Clinton, Goderich.

Return to the main travel overview: Huron County.