Official Opening of Algonquin Trail through Garrison Petawawa

The ribbon was cut on May 9 to mark the official opening of the new section of Algonquin Trail through Garrison Petawawa. Taking part in the ceremony (from left) were Marvin Dupuis, North Renfrew Snowmobile Association; Jason Spence, Valley Trail Riders; Councillor PJ Leroux, Algonquins of Pikwakanagan; Lorraine Pecoskie, Governor District 6, Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs; Captain Brady McNish, Real Property Operations Garrison Petawawa; Stephanie Hepburn, Ketna Snowmobile and Recreation Club; County Councillors James Brose, Keith Watt and Anne Giardini; Lt.-Col. Nicolas Forsyth, Deputy Garrison Commander Garrison Petawawa; Deputy Mayor Theresa Sabourin, Town of Petawawa; MPP Billy Denault; Shawn Marrison, TC Energy; County Councillor Glenn Doncaster, Operations Committee Chair; Renfrew County Warden Peter Emon; Taylor Hanrath, Manager Capital Works; MPP Cheryl Gallant; Bob Peltzer, Ottawa Valley Cycling and Active Transportation Alliance; Steve Hyska, Renfrew County ATV Club and Craig Kelley, Chief Administrative Officer County of Renfrew. 

RELEASE DATE:

May 9, 2025

The County of Renfrew is pleased to announce the completion of the section of the Algonquin Trail through Garrison Petawawa. This significant project creates a scenic, continuous recreational trail from Arnprior to Deep River, linking the overall Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail (OVRT) from Smith Falls to Deep River.

In collaboration with several key community and industry partners, the project through Garrison Petawawa was a testament to cooperative efforts in regional development. The County of Renfrew led the initiative, managing the majority of the work and contracts necessary to bring this vision to fruition; with financial support from the Federal Government and the Provincial Government in the amount of $255,699 through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.

"The completion of the Algonquin Trail through Garrison Petawawa is a milestone for the Ottawa Valley, connecting communities from Arnprior to Deep River and fostering recreation and unity across the region,” said Algonquin-Renfrew-Pembroke MP Cheryl Gallant. “This is a wonderful collaborative achievement and I encourage everyone to explore this stunning trail."

The project also benefitted greatly from cooperation with Garrison Petawawa, Trans Canada Energy (TCE), the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation, the Town of Petawawa, Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC), and Renfrew County ATV Club (RCATV), which was integral to see this project to fruition.

“The Algonquin Trail is an integral transportation, economic, and recreational link in our riding and beyond,” said MPP Billy Denault. “We are grateful for the Government of Ontario’s investment in this valuable asset. It has proven to be an investment that pays dividends by fostering economic connections between communities across Renfrew–Nipissing–Pembroke. Whether it’s tourism, active transportation, or recreation, the Algonquin Trail is an asset that both visitors and residents can enjoy.” 

Renfrew County Warden Peter Emon is thrilled to see the completion of this significant section of the Algonquin Trail through Garrison Petawawa, connecting all the way to Deep River. This project was a significant undertaking, involving forestry mulching, installation of geotextile, granular A, stone dust, and the rehabilitation of three bridges, requiring cooperation from all parties involved.

“This transformative 16-kilometre addition not only enhances our trail network but also underscores our commitment to sustainable development and community recreation,” he said. “Our trails team has ensured this trail offers a safe, accessible, and beautiful route for all residents and visitors to share. The Algonquin Trail is a testament to our dedication to building vibrant and connected communities throughout Renfrew County.”

For more information about the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail visit www.ottawavalleytrail.com.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Taylor Hanrath                    Manager of Capital Works                                  613-735-7288

Tina Peplinskie                    Media Relations Coordinator                             613-735-7288