Maitland Trail Association celebrates 50 years

The Maitland Trail Association (MTA) was founded in 1975 by a group of visionary volunteers determined to create a trail along the beautiful Maitland River.

Their dedication laid the foundation for what has become a community treasure.

As the MTA celebrates 50 years in 2025, the association reflects on the work completed by early pioneers and the importance of volunteers who have continued to support it.

Today, MTA volunteers continue to maintain over 80-kilometres of public-use trails in and around Goderich.

Prior to joining the board Gena Lowe, MTA volunteer learned that over 80 kilometres of trails were maintained entirely by volunteers.

Every week, a team of volunteers meets for a Monday morning huddle to plan Thursday’s work list, ensuring the trails area s safe as possible.

“My priority when I joined was to create a new website that truly reflects the heart of the MTA,” said Lowe.

“The heart of the MTA is our incredible volunteers and our deep connection to the Goderich community over the past 50 years.”

Founded on July 2, 1975, the MTA had a vision to create a trail following the Maitland River. After an initial surge of enthusiasm, progress slowed, and the project might have stalled if not for two dedicated individuals – Bill Wisser and Rod Lafontaine.

These two individuals kept the momentum going, and their passion inspired others to get involved. Over time, the MTA grew into the strong organization that exists today.

According to Lowe, in the early years, volunteers like Heinz Hoernig and his team played a key role in constructing and maintaining trail infrastructure, including bridges and boardwalks.

The MTA is a non-profit, volunteer-led organization and any proceeds from this event will go directly toward trail maintenance.

Last year along, the Trail Maintenance Crew installed hundreds of feet of new boardwalks, much of it in the Maitland Woods, which is one of the most popular walking trails located near the Columbus Convention Centre.

“These kinds of projects ensure our trails remain safe, accessible and, and enjoyable for years to come,” said Lowe.

The MTA has been an integral part of the community for half a century, and this milestone is something worth celebrating together.

Individuals and businesses have supported the MTA throughout the years, and in turn, the MTA has given back, whether by sharing proceeds from fundraising events with other organizations or through volunteer efforts.

For example, the MTA recently provided a $5,000 donation to the Menesetung Bridge Association (MBA) to help with bridge repairs.

Lowe explains that the upcoming event is a way for everyone to come together, recognize those contributions and celebrate the trails that bring so many people joy.

Today, a dedicated group of mostly retirees continues this work, to maintain six trails: the Maitland Trail, Menesetung Trail, Sifto Loop, Millennium Trail, Maitland Woods and part of the G2G Rail Trail (from Highway 21 in Goderich to Auburn).

In addition, Trail Rangers regularly inspect and report on their section, ensuring ongoing maintenance.

Lowe explains that the Maitland Trail would note exist without the generosity of private landowners who allow access through their property.

“Their support is the foundation of our trail system, and we are deeply grateful,” added Lowe.

Beyond maintaining trails, the MTA fosters a love for the outdoors by organizing free group activities year-round, including hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

Details are shared on the MTA’s website and supporters receive notifications directly to their inbox.

The Tuesday Trompers, led by Faye Ribey, explore a different trail each week, while signature events include the Candlelit Walk in Maitladn Woods kicking off Winterfest, the annual plant and compost sale held each spring, and the El Camino Maitland, which is the largest fundraising event for the MTA.

At its core, the MTA believes in transformative power of hiking.

“Time spent on the trail deepens one’s appreciation for nature, promotes environmental stewardship, and improves overall health and well-being,” added Lowe.

“For those who maintain it, the Maitland Trail is more than just a path – it’s a labour of love, a connection to the community, and a legacy we’re proud to share.”

To mark this special milestone of 50 years, the MTA is hosting a special event on June 14. The Celebration Dinner and Auction Event aims to celebrate and support the MTA by enjoying a sit-down dinner, cash bar, music, guest speaker, and silent auction.

Guest speaker for the event is Adam Shoalts, a professional adventurer and best-selling author. He has been named ‘Canada’s Indiana Jones’.

Held at the Columbus Convention Centre and Banquet Hall on Parsons Court in Goderich, the June 14 dinner event will run from 6:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m.

Net proceeds will go to support the MTA and local organizations.

Only 200 tickets are available, and tickets are $100 per person. For tickets, sponsorship, donations or auction items contact Gena by email at glowe@maitlandtrail.ca