Description
Ye Olde Ghost Towns
The Old Nipissing Road is a ghost town trail that was once home to many settlements of hopeful pioneers but is now guarded by their abandoned log cabins and weathered barns.
There are no facilities between Magnetawan and Commanda and trail conditions vary with some sections wide and well-kept; and others little more than two ruts plunging into dark woods, much as the pioneers might have experienced it. A series of historic markers are located along the route.
The road runs through the centre of the Parry Sound District between highways 69 and 11. It winds along 77 km of gravel road, bush trail and paved highway (#510) from the ghost town of Seguin Falls on Hwy 518 to the Village of Commanda on Hwy 522.
A Revival
In the early 1990s, a local group of trail enthusiasts known as the Forgotten Trails Association teamed up with Discovery Routes to have the Old Nipissing Road designated as part of the Trans Canada Trail. It became one of the very first sections in Ontario to become part of what is now the world’s longest recreation trail.
Gravel Heaven
The recent rise in popularity of gravel cycling and bikepacking inspired Discovery Routes to develop a cycling experience that weaves together the Old Nipissing Road with a series of backroad loops ranging in length and challenge.
Discover the history of the Old Nipissing Ghost Road on our Voyageur Cycling Route experience, the Old Nipissing Ghost Road Cycling Experience.
Download the easy and quick mini-guide with the route guides for four of our most popular cycling experiences.
Trailhead UTM 605821 mE x 5057798 mN
Ownership Road Allowance - varies
Length 70 km
Activities ATV trails, Gravel Riding, Hiking, Mountain Biking, Snowmobiling
Amenities Parking, Rest Area
Difficulty Moderate
Directions
Staging Areas: Commanda General Store Museum at Hwy 522, Commanda Or Magnetawan Municipal Office/Library at 4304 Highway 520, Magnetawan
For More Information
- Get our Adventure Trails Map!– 1000 kms + of hiking, cycling, paddling, winter sports
- Old Nipissing Ghost Road Cycling Experience
A gravel ride featuring stories of the old road’s past and present. - History of the Old Nipissing Road
A website detailing the history of the ghost towns and cemeteries that line the Old Nipissing Road
