- About ORTA
ORTA History
Our History: From Vision to Reality
The Oak Ridges Trail Association (ORTA) began in 1991 with a shared dream among volunteers: to create a recreational trail system spanning the entire length of the Oak Ridges Moraine. This vision was sparked by the collaboration of STORM (Save The Oak Ridges Moraine), the Metro Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, and Hike Ontario.
Through their combined efforts, the Oak Ridges Trail Steering Committee was formed, and after months of planning and meetings, ORTA was officially inaugurated in May 1992 at Albion Hills. The mission was clear: to develop a trail that fosters appreciation and respect for the ecological, cultural, and scenic integrity of the Moraine, preserving its natural state for future generations.
Trail Development: A Journey Through Time
Efforts to establish a trail on the Oak Ridges Moraine date back to 1973. Today, ORTA proudly oversees:
- Over 280 km of main trails, complemented by over 87 km of various side trails.
- A route starting at the Bruce Trail junction near Mono Mills and extending eastward through Peel, York, Durham, and Northumberland, ending at gateways in Castleton and Warkworth.
This trail system connects communities, highlights stunning landscapes, and promotes sustainable outdoor recreation.
Guided by Leadership and Community Support
ORTA operates under the leadership of a Board of Directors, elected annually to manage the organization’s diverse operations. Each chapter, representing regions like Caledon, Aurora, Uxbridge, and Northumberland, contributes to trail maintenance and community engagement. These chapters ensure the trail remains a cherished asset for hikers across Southern Ontario.
A Growing Community of Trail Enthusiasts
Since its inception, ORTA has grown to include:
- Over 600 members spread across ten chapters.
- Regularly organized hikes open to members and non-members alike.
- A quarterly newsletter to keep members informed about activities and updates.
ORTA’s affordable memberships provide financial support for trail maintenance and enable members to actively participate in preserving the Moraine’s natural beauty.
Trail Building, Hiking Communities and Moraine Stewardship
ORTA’s mission is threefold:
- Build and maintain a public hiking trail system on the Oak Ridges Moraine, prioritizing off-road paths.
- Organize and promote hiking to foster a love of nature and the Moraine’s unique landscapes.
- Encourage responsible stewardship of the Moraine’s natural environment.
Join Us in Protecting the Moraine
Your support helps us maintain the Oak Ridges Trail, protect the Moraine’s fragile ecosystems, and foster environmental stewardship.
Become a Member: Join a community of over 700 trail enthusiasts and enjoy guided hikes, newsletters, and opportunities to make a lasting impact.
Make a Donation: Every contribution, big or small, directly supports trail maintenance and conservation efforts.
Together, we can ensure the Moraine remains a natural treasure for future generations.
THE OAK RIDGES TRAIL ASSOCIATION STORY
25 Years Across the Moraine: 1992 – 2017
ABOUT THIS BOOK
CHAPTERS
- Chapter 1 - The Vision
- Chapter 2 - The Developing years 1994-2004
- Chapter 3 - Becoming Moraine wide 2004-2009
- Chapter 4 - Continuing as a Volunteer Association 2009
- Chapter 5 - Local Chapters Developed the Trail
- Chapter 6 - The Hiking Program & Recollections
- Chapter 7 - Publicity Activities
- Chapter 8 - The Guide Book
- Chapter 9 - Membership & Volunteers work
- Chapter 10 - Finances and the Treasurers
- Chapter 11 - Adventure Relay