A New Path Through the Wetlands: Boardwalk Construction on the Red Trail
a new boardwalk was completed along the Red Trail at the George Langmann Sanctuary, located just outside Orillia. Designed to minimize impact on the surrounding ecosystem, the boardwalk now offers a stable, environmentally conscious pathway through one of the wettest sections of this protected wetland.
To protect the bog’s sensitive pH levels, ‘A’ gravel was carefully chosen for the support pads beneath the framework. These 12-inch high pads were spaced every 9 feet along the old trail base, allowing natural water flow to continue undisturbed as the water table rises and falls.
On top of the gravel, 6″ x 6″ x 6′ pressure-treated ties were laid perpendicular to the trail and levelled. Across each set of ties, two 6″ x 6″ x 10′ pressure-treated beams were installed to match the wheel spacing of the ATVs and trailers used to maintain the trails. Floating pins secured the beams to the ties.
To support the edges of the walkway, additional 2″ x 6″ x 10′ beams were added. The decking itself was constructed using 2″ x 8″ x 6′ deck boards, finished with 2″ x 4″ kickboards fastened along each edge for added safety and structure.
At both ends of the boardwalk, cedar logs were laid perpendicular to the trail and wired together to create sturdy ramps. These ramps were covered with a protective membrane and gravel to ensure a smoother, safer transition on and off the deck.
Spanning 36 meters, the new boardwalk took over 150 hours of volunteer labour to complete and was built at a cost of $5,500. The result is a durable, low-impact structure that blends beautifully with its natural surroundings — and helps make more of the sanctuary accessible year-round.
The Orillia Fish and Game Conservation Club extends our heartfelt thanks to all of our partners and volunteers who contributed their time, resources, and expertise to bring this project to life.
