The Nine Bends Trail in Owen Sound, Ontario, is temporarily closed to the public following heavy rainfall that caused washouts and unstable ground conditions.
The 0.5-kilometre steep, winding path, which connects 1st Street West near Harrison Park to the Greenwood Cemetery, was shut down after severe weather moved through the area. According to Grey Sauble Conservation Authority, the watershed received between 75 and 120 millimetres of rain over a 72-hour period ending April 15, 2026. This included 20 to 25 millimetres of rainfall in just six hours.
Environment Canada had issued a special weather statement on April 14, 2026, noting that the ground was already near saturation and had a limited capacity to absorb any additional precipitation.
The City of Owen Sound, which manages about 30 kilometres of recreational trails, stated that the trail will remain closed while crews assess the damage and complete necessary repairs. The Nine Bends Trail is part of the city’s maintained winter trail system and serves as an important transportation link for residents.
Residents who have concerns about trail conditions or wish to report damage can contact the city’s Public Works Department at 519-376-4274. The city will provide updates on the status of the trail as more information becomes available.
