Show Your Support
The forest is
open to all.
Keep it that way.
The Ganaraska Forest is a publicly owned, publicly funded resource — built for the community and meant to stay that way. Right now, established plans for its care and access aren’t being followed. GPTR is working to change that.
The Situation
2018
A Plan Was Made
A Forest Management Plan was completed through extensive public consultation and approved to guide the Ganaraska Forest through 2038 — covering access, safety, and recovery from major events.
2022
The Derecho Storm
A major storm caused widespread damage across the forest. In the months that followed, the trail recovery and cleanup work outlined in the approved plan was not carried out — leaving trails unsafe and inaccessible.
Now
Still Unresolved
Recovery decisions have been handled through interim measures that have effectively sidelined the approved plan. Large portions of the trail network remain closed or unusable, despite a long-term framework already being in place.
What GPTR Is Doing About It
Rather than accepting the sidelining of an approved, publicly consulted plan, GPTR has pursued legal action — not to create new rules or expand access, but to restore the process that was already agreed upon.
As a public forest supported through public funding, the Ganaraska is managed on behalf of the community. Established management plans exist precisely to ensure accountability when major events occur.
GPTR’s approach has been measured and constructive at every step. Legal action was pursued only after collaborative options were exhausted.
One Specific Ask.
“To have the responsible authorities formally commit to adhering to the Forest Management Plan that was already approved through public consultation — and to fully reopen the forest.”
Why This Affects Everyone
The Ganaraska Forest belongs to the public. When established management plans aren’t followed, the impacts reach every type of trail user — and the forest itself.
Reduced Access
Public access to publicly funded recreational infrastructure is limited without a clear process for restoration.
Safety Risks
Unmanaged trails and uncleared debris increase safety risks for all users — regardless of activity.
Lost Opportunities
Long-standing recreational access built over decades can be lost quickly without active management.
Broken Trust
When publicly consulted plans are set aside, trust in the long-term planning process is undermined for all stakeholders.
How You Can Help
Stand With the Pines.
Support looks different for everyone. Whether it's grabbing a shirt, volunteering your time, or backing us as a sponsor, here's how to get involved.
Buy a Shirt
Every shirt sold helps fund the fight to get the trails fully restored and accessible. Grab a "Stand with the Pines" tee and wear your support.
Become a Sponsor
GPTR runs on the backing of local shops and businesses who believe in what we're fighting for. Sponsoring the club puts your name behind the cause and in front of a growing, engaged riding community.
Volunteer
GPTR welcomes individuals who are open to helping as opportunities arise. Specific roles are still being defined — expressing interest now helps build a network ready to step in when needed.
Backed by the Community
GPTR wouldn't run without the local shops, riders, and businesses who back us.
A huge thank-you to our sponsors for standing with the club.
