Single Use vs. Multi Use Trail Systems

Regardless of your geographical location a heated debate is sure to arise over the use and management of our wild spaces. Particularly those that are reasonably accessible form large urban centers.

ATV clubs, snowmobile clubs, equestrian groups, hikers, hunters and fishermen all claim sole rights to various public and private trail systems. So who should have access to abandoned logging roads? Should ATVs be allowed on snowmobile trails? Should hikers be allowed to use ATV trails? Should horse riders be allowed to use hiking trails? Should hunters and fishermen be charged fees for limited access?

You can see that there is no hope of appeasing everyone; or is there?

Well let’s head to the beautiful Ottawa River valley at the town of Mattawa Ontario, where the Mattawa River meets the mighty Ottawa. Here you will find over 200 km of managed trails that address the concerns of nearly everyone. This is a truly visionary approach to trail management that seems to be working.

I had the opportunity to personally tour the trail system last spring and I must say that I’m very impressed. The looping train systems are clearly posted as beginner, intermediate, and advanced. They are also designated as multi use, ATV only, horses only, or hiking only. In fact, the layout and design of the trails alone encourages only one type of use.

Initial access is by means of old logging roads that are well maintained through the early stretches and become progressively more rugged to the point where access by regular vehicles is not possible.

Day passes are available for $12.00 and a season pass is only $50.00. It will likely cost you more for gas to get there than you’ll pay for a yearly trail permit. All trails are regularly inspected and maintained by a dedicated group of volunteers. Funding for the massive maintenance project is obtained through trail, fees, special events, and corporate donations.

Mattawa is truly a destination where the multi use bickering has largely been put aside in favour of a combined love of the Canadian wilderness. The result is a multi use trail system that should be a model for planners everywhere.

For more information on the wide range of opportunities available in Mattawa visit http://www.vmuts.com/ . And yes, your ATV is allowed on town streets.

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