OFGCC Nature Trails

Al Wright & Eldon Ayers Nature Trails

The Orillia Fish and Game Conservation Club (OFGCC) nature trails are located at the George Langman Sanctuary which can be found at the southwest corner of Bass Lake Sideroad and the 14th line of the Township of Oro-Medonte. It is just west of Bass Lake Provincial Park and a short distance from the City of Orillia. The sanctuary and nature trails are open throughout the year and are  free to the public, although a donation to support conservation would always be appreciated.

During the 1980’s the Club began work on the nature trails around the perimeter of the sanctuary marsh, to allow the public to enjoy the wildlife as well as the flora and fauna that surround it. The nature trail has been expanded and upgraded throughout the years and is now a well maintained six kilometre trail. The nature trails are named in honour of Al Wright and Eldon Ayers, two club members who worked diligently throughout the years on their construction and maintenance.

Over 6km Of Trails!

There are two sections to the nature trails. The upper section follows the base of the hill along the south side of the sanctuary property while the lower section follows along the perimeter of the marsh. In times of high water levels in the marsh, parts of the lower section are sometimes covered with floodwater. However, the upper section will usually remain dry and perfect for walking. The lower section has many features such as a boardwalk and a floating bog where you can jump up and down and watch the treetops move. This is usually the walking trail preferred by most visitors. 

Encounter Various Flowers, Birds & Wildlife

While walking along the nature trails, one can expect to see a variety waterfowl such as Canada geese, mute and trumpeter swans, mallard ducks, wood ducks, as well as many other types of ducks which will come and go throughout the day. There are, of course, many smaller birds which can be observe while walking through the sanctuary.  The yellow finch and red-winged blackbirds are very popular and are commonly sighted around the marsh area. There is abundant wildlife to be seen along the trail, such as deer, rabbits, foxes, squirrels and chipmunks, so be ready with your camera! One should also keep an eye open for the many varieties of turtles, frogs, snakes and small invertebrates that call the marsh their home. The sanctuary property is blessed with many varieties of wildflowers which can be seen as you walk along the trails.

We trust that you will respect the wildlife that inhabit the area and endeavor to keep the sanctuary litter-free so that it may be enjoyed by everyone. It is the OFGCC’s goal to preserve this sanctuary not only for this generation, but for future generations.