Smiths Falls council has approved amendments to a partnership agreement supporting the development of the Eastern Ontario Rail Trail Loop, a regional initiative aimed at creating a signature cycling experience across eastern Ontario.
Tourism coordinator Jeff Murphy presented the report during the June 8 committee of the whole meeting, describing the changes as updates to clarify the roles and responsibilities of the Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization, also known as Regional Tourism Organization 11 (RTO11).
“The update or change to the agreement is simply to their roles and responsibilities,” Murphy told council. “It does not change our relation to the group or affect in any way, shape or form our role or responsibility.”
The Eastern Ontario Rail Trail Loop project began in 2024 and envisions a 360-kilometre cycling route linking communities throughout the region. Smiths Falls serves as a key connection point, with two of the four trail segments intersecting in the community.
Partners in the initiative include the counties of Frontenac and Lanark, the Ottawa Valley Tourist Association and County of Renfrew, the Township of Rideau Lakes, the Town of Smiths Falls and Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization. Additional partners include the Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority and Regional Tourism Organization 9 (RTO9).
The project has also secured federal support through the Tourism Growth Program, receiving $78,235 to support implementation activities, including branding initiatives, asset development and marketing campaigns.
Coun. Peter McKenna voiced support for the agreement but questioned why Smiths Falls had not been recognized among the project’s financial contributors.
“Everybody gave $3,000 or more … but we’ve been giving and our name’s not in there,” McKenna said.
Murphy acknowledged the concern and noted that Smiths Falls contributed $3,000 in both 2024 and 2025. Another $3,000 has been allocated in the town’s 2026 budget.
“There has’’t been an ask this year, at least not so far,” Murphy said, adding he would raise the issue with project organizers.
According to project documents, the partnership is currently entering its product development phase, focused on implementing recommendations identified through earlier planning work. The long-term goal is to establish the Eastern Ontario Rail Trail Loop as an export-ready cycling destination by 2030, attracting domestic and international visitors seeking multi-day recreational experiences.
Council supported the recommendation authorizing the mayor and clerk to execute the amended memorandum of understanding.
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This blog entry provides some very useful info on this circuit, and refers to a full photo album of the loop. This should become a classic.https://thepassionatehiker.blogspot.com/2024/09/the-three-trails-challenge.html