Headwaters Communities in ActionThe Melancthon Tract Trail
The Melancthon Tract is in the Dufferin County Forest, much of which was planted in 1959. The 750-metre trail loops from one side of the property to an adjacent side. Watch for some side trails. Plantation areas are red pine and white spruce, but look also for the tamarack.
The tamarack is our only coniferous tree that drops its needles in the fall. Each spring, dozens of new clusters of bright green needles grow on each twig in a delicate rosette form. You’ll see signs of beaver activity, such as a poplar tree that’s been felled across the trail.
Bird activity is all around you, and butterflies and moths spring up from the grass as you walk.
| Name | The Melancthon Tract Trail |
| Description | The 750-metre trail loops from one side of the property to an adjacent side. Watch for some side trails. |
| Activities | Hiking, walking, cycling, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, horseback riding. |
| Location | Emergency numbers marks trail entrances: 398172 on the east side and 684111 on the south side. Avoid the dead-end trail blocked by rubble at No. 684031. |
| Maps | Melancthon Tract Trail |
| Parking | Limited at trail entrance. |
| Trail Head | Emergency numbers marks trail entrances:398172 on the east side and 684111 on the south side. Avoid the dead-end trail blocked by rubble at No. 684031. |
| Trail End | Emergency numbers marks trail entrances:398172 on the east side and 684111 on the south side. Avoid the dead-end trail blocked by rubble at No. 684031. |
| Distance | .75 km |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Surfaces | Natural |
| Amenities | None |
| Landmarks | Red Pine, White Spruce and Tamarack trees. Birds and wildlife. |
| Cost | No cost |
| Trail Web Site | Dufferin County Forest |
| Closest Town | Shelburne |
