Kortright Centre for Conservation

Kortright Centre for Conservation Review

Only 15 minutes north of the city, this delightful conservation center has three aquariums, more than 16 km (10 mi) of hiking trails through forest, meadow, river, and marshland, and a renewable-energy cottage that demonstrates what life would be like off the grid. In winter some of the trails are reserved for cross-country skiing (C$18 to use the trail; equipment rentals available). In the magnificent woods there have been sightings of foxes, coyotes, rabbits, deer, wild turkeys, pheasants, chickadees, finches, and blue jays. Seasonal events include a dogsled race, a spring maple-syrup festival, and a Christmas crafts fair. Nature day camps and day-long energy conservation workshops are offered throughout the year for an extra fee. To get here, drive 3 km (2 mi) north along Highway 400, exit west at Major Mackenzie Drive, and continue south 1 km (½ mi) on Pine Valley Drive to the gate.