Kolapore Uplands – MTB Trail

Length – 40+ km

90% hiking trail
10% doubletrack access roads

Elevation – Hillier on the north end, low wetlands on the south, a few steep climbs/descents in the valleys

Terrain – Smooth track with leaf debris; limestone outcrops and short drops; water and muddy patches; bridges

Skill – Intermediate – this is a cross-country-style ride

Traffic – Light traffic consisting of hikers, dog walkers, and MTB riders, Nordic skiers

Maps – Info board at the trailhead; good signage on ski trails printed map can be purchased online or at Ravenna General Store

Facilities – Parking lots, outhouse at main lot

Highlights – Wilderness, solitude, bridges, lookouts, rocky ride

Trail Fee – Free

Phone – 519 538 0283

Website – Kolapore Wilderness Trails

Similar Trails – Three Stage, Agreement Forest, Hilton Falls

Local Clubs – Collingwood Offroad Cycling Club

Access – The large main car lot is on the east side at 495428 Grey County Rd. 2, where the road bends. Cross the road to find the trailhead slightly south of there.

Also, easier trails are accessed south of here on Grey County Rd. 2 where the road bends again at Osprey Townline.

Metcalfe Rock parking lot at 415400 10th Line south of Sideroad 9 puts you somewhat in the middle of the trails area. Parking and trailhead are on the east.

Thanks to Paulo LaBerge for taking some of these photos.

If you are looking for a MTB XC wilderness adventure in southern Ontario, Kolapore Uplands southwest of Collingwood will give you that experience. Enjoy hours of touring through forests on the rocky back of the Niagara Escarpment in peaceful, natural surroundings.

Numerous forested loops take you around wetlands and through clearings, over many bridges, and up and down valleys—some with steep grades. Much of this is on hiking trails or winter cross-country ski paths crossing over a number of side roads.

Although you’ll see a lot of trees, the area does offer a few lookouts such as the Duncan Escarpment and Mount Dhaulagiri. You’ll have to work the granny gears before you can appreciate these views.

Kolapore offers a hilly ride on a smooth base with frequent rocky limestone encounters. Although it’s not super-technical here, you’d better be agile enough on your pony to like the stony parts.

Much of the terrain may be covered with leaf debris. Take note that there could be rock crevasses under this floor covering that could suddenly tip you over.

This area is suitable for any seasoned Intermediate MTB rider capable of finding their way. There is signage (for skiers) at intersections to help you with navigation.

You should be self-supporting and prepared for the unexpected, since you may…

Read more of this review in my MTB guidebook with topo maps and riding tips, plus 54 others. Available as an eBook or paperback..