Harold Town CA is a property owned and managed by Otonabee Conservation. The main attraction for birders is the extensive trail network, but the trails can be fairly busy, especially during the warmer months when it is a popular destination for mountain biking. The property offers primarily white cedar-dominated forest with some open areas. The top of the large hill is an ideal place to watch for visible migration as the view in all directions is very good.

Information from their website is below:

Harold Town Conservation Area offers a network of trails available for off-road cycling and hiking. From beginner to advanced, you will find a trail to excite and challenge you. Parking is available on site and an accessible washroom is available May to October.

Camping

Overnight camping is not allowed at Harold Town Conservation Area.

Fires are not permitted.

Off-road cycling/mountain biking

Harold Town Conservation Area has approximately 10 kilometres of trails that are ideal for both quick spins and combined laps for epic adventures. You'll find a double track loop trail, with connecting single-track trails, berms, technical rock gardens, switch-back climbs, rock pile features, log hops, bridges, small rock drops and tight turns.

Constructed and maintained in accordance with the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) guidelines, trail upkeep is coordinated through the Peterborough Trailbuilders Association (PTA). Otonabee Conservation established an agreement with the PTA which allows for maintenance, improvement and construction of trails and trail infrastructure within designated portions of the property.

Note: ATVs and Motorized Offroad Vehicles are not permitted.

Hiking

Harold Town Conservation Area offers approximately 10 kilometers of multi-use recreational trails that provide scenic views from the top of the Meade Creek Drumlin. The Peterborough Drumlin Field has been identified as a significant natural heritage feature within the Otonabee Conservation watershed.

Picnicking

Harold Town Conservation Area offers a small shade shelter, maintained open area, picnic tables, and accessible washrooms close to the parking area - great for small family gatherings.

Event permits are required for coordinated events by organized groups and can be attained by contacting Otonabee Conservation.

Note: The use of alcohol is not permitted at picnic facilities

Historical Significance

The Harold Town Conservation Area is named after the Canadian artist who owned this property from the mid 1970’s until the early 1990’s; it was previously referred to as Old Orchard Farm.

Harold Town enjoyed this property as his personal retreat until he passed away in 1990. On April 11, 1994, the property was donated to Otonabee Conservation by Harold Town’s estate. The property was named in his memory and was dedicated as a park for public purposes, as requested by the estate.