Peterborough combines trails with clearly specified lengths, contemporary art, museums and the Trent-Severn Waterway. Two comparisons can help with planning your trip: the different routes and lengths of the trails, and the distinct focuses of the cultural venues.
Trails by Length and Route
The section of the Trans Canada Trail within the city of Peterborough is 10 kilometres long. Also known as The Great Trail, it crosses Peterborough from east to west. The Rotary Greenway Trail within the city is also 10 kilometres long. Its route continues north from Little Lake to Trent University, then follows the Otonabee River to Lakefield. The 10 kilometres refers to the section within Peterborough; the extension to Lakefield goes beyond it.
The Parkway Trail is 4 kilometres long and connects Jackson Park with Riverview Park & Zoo. The Crawford Trail is in the south of Peterborough and is 2 kilometres long. In terms of length, there are two 10-kilometre routes, one 4-kilometre connection and one 2-kilometre trail. Their reference points also differ: an east-west crossing, a connection between two named destinations and a trail in the south. Future trail work may change route lengths, and connections may evolve as projects progress.
Waterway and Culture
Peterborough is the largest urban centre on the Trent-Severn Waterway, a National Historic Site of Canada. From the city, you can experience the waterway by water or by land. Land-based options include scenic waterfront trails, parks and local beaches.
The Art Gallery of Peterborough is a public gallery of contemporary art in Peterborough, Ontario. It presents exhibitions, events and programs year-round; the specific program changes over time. If you are planning around a particular exhibition or date, check the current program. The Peterborough Museum & Archives also offers exhibitions and events year-round. The museum accepts group bookings for guided tours.
The Canadian Canoe Museum in Peterborough, Ontario, preserves the world’s largest collection of canoes, kayaks and human-powered watercraft. The cultural venues have different focuses: contemporary art at the gallery, exhibitions and events at the Museum & Archives, and a specialized collection at the Canadian Canoe Museum. This lets you choose based on the subject that interests you most.
Riverview Park & Zoo
Riverview Park & Zoo in Peterborough is home to more than 150 animals from over 40 species. The Otter Exhibit has two pools, a waterfall, a slide and outdoor areas where the otters can move around, play and hide. The exhibit’s features may be updated.
Discover more destinations: Ennismore, Keene, Curve Lake, Bailieboro, Norwood, Woodview, Havelock, Harcourt.
For the broader travel overview: Peterborough County.
