The Torbolton Forest is owned by the City of Ottawa, managed by the Ottawa Forestry Department, and patrolled by the Ottawa Police Service.
It is enjoyed by walkers, skiers, snowmobilers, riders, and dog owners. It is inhabited by a wide variety of game including deer, black bears, foxes, and the occasional coyote but there has not been a reported incident of animal attacks on pets or people in the forest. Dogs should be kept on a leash at all times to prevent interaction with bears and coyotes and for the safety of other users. Please keep the forest clean and remember that forest fires have occurred often in the past; some with disastrous results. The most common causes are improperly supervised backyard fires, unauthorized bonfires in the forest, and careless smoking. Please, don’t cause another one.
The forest is approximately square bounded on the west by Allbirch Road and its trail extension and on the north by Doris Currie ( beside the Lighthouse) and its trail extension. The forest west and north of these coordinates is private property.
During the winter designated trails are marked and maintained to ensure the highest level of safety and enjoyment for all users. The snowmobile trail, which runs down the centre of the forest, is marked and groomed and requires the use of a West Carleton Snowmobile Trails Association trail pass. Ski trails are not currently maintained. Everyone is asked to respect other users and keep off trails not designated for their use. Walkers are asked to stay clear of both snowmobile and ski trails.
Residents are not permitted to cut trees in the forest. There are significant fines for cutting or dumping in the forest. The City periodically performs thinning operations to improve the biodiversity; removing plantation pines to leave room for other species.
As a result of community feedback the CBBCA will, at some point in the future, be smoothing a trail to make it more accessible so that the mobility impaired can also continue to enjoy the forest.
