The United Counties of Leeds and Grenville has officially closed all trails in Limerick Forest to motorized vehicles as of March 31, 2026. This temporary measure is necessary to protect the trails during the annual spring thaw, with officials aiming to reopen the area by mid-May 2026 once safety inspections and maintenance work are completed.
Limerick Forest is a large community forest spanning over 6,000 hectares across several municipalities, including Augusta, Merrickville-Wolford, North Grenville, and Edwardsburgh-Cardinal. The site features an extensive network of approximately 180 kilometres of trails, alongside 30 kilometres of groomed snowmobile paths managed by the Leeds & Grenville Snowmobile Association.
Annual spring closures are standard practice at the forest to prevent damage to the trail surfaces when the ground is wet and vulnerable. While motorized access is prohibited, non-motorized activities like hiking may still be permitted depending on specific trail conditions. Visitors are encouraged to check the official United Counties of Leeds and Grenville website for the latest updates before heading out.
Once the forest reopens, motorized users must continue to follow established rules. Riders of all-terrain vehicles and motorcycles are required to hold valid memberships with the Ontario Federation of All-Terrain Vehicles or the Ontario Federation of Trail Riders, as well as a local club such as the Johnstown ATV Club or the Bytown Motorcycle Association. For further information or questions regarding forest management, residents can contact the forest manager at 613-342-3840, extension 2416.
