The Sawmill Trail

This moderate 2km trail starts out on the first pioneer path east of Lake Huron leading from the first ford or crossing point on the Bayfield River. It is likely that this shallow crossing was used for centuries before European settlers came to this area. In the early 1840s, a dam for the first sawmill and grist mill in the area was built. It was also used as the first bridge and you can still see the pattern of stones in the river indicating where it was located. The looped trail begins and ends with a steep hill leading down to a path along the river and through a variety of forests. Directions: From Hwy. #21, just north of the Bayfield bridge, turn east on Old River Rd. Proceed 1⁄2 km and turn right at Sawmill Rd. The trail entrance is at the end of this short cul-de-sac.