Explore the Dufferin County Forest

March 21 marks the United Nations General Assembly’s International Day of Forests, a day to celebrate and raise awareness of the importance of all types of forests.

Forests provide so much for our health. They purify the water, clean the air, capture carbon to fight climate change, provide food and life-saving medicines, and improve our well-being. This International Day of Forests, get outside and explore the forest in Dufferin County.

The county forest is a 1,066 hectare (2,636 acre) multi-tract area owned and managed by the County. It serves important functions in terms of erosion and water control, natural heritage protection, biodiversity, wildlife habitat, recreational opportunities, and support of the rural economy through timber production and employment opportunities.

It is made up of fourteen forested areas, or tracts, located throughout Dufferin. The largest single area is the Main Tract (607 hectares/1,501 acres) located in Mulmur Township, just north of the hamlet of Mansfield. Major tree species include red pine, white pine, white spruce, eastern white cedar, larch, red oak, sugar maple, white ash, black cherry, white birch and poplar.

There are many ways for residents to enjoy the Dufferin County Forest, like hiking, mountain biking, cross country skiing, and horseback riding.

Hunting is permitted between October 1 and May 31 in the south portion of Amaranth, Gara Gore, Melancthon, Randwick, Riverview, and Simmons County Forest tracts. Hunters are required to obtain