Barrie trail closed following destructive ice storm

A Danger sign at Ardagh Bluffs recreational trail on Thurs., April 10, 2025, after a destructive ice storm downed branches. (CTV News/Dave Sullivan)

At least one Barrie recreational trail is closed due to debris left behind by a destructive ice storm that wreaked havoc across the region last month. The City of Barrie confirmed the hand-written danger sign posted at Ardagh Bluffs is legit due to tree limbs posing potential hazards.

The City says crews have been busy cleaning up after the storm and haven’t had a chance to fully inspect whether certain trails are safe for use. It’s unclear how many parks and trails have been closed. Since the storm hit, residents have been asked to avoid any areas where there could be falling branches or trees.

The ice storm caused significant damage, power outages and closures. Last week, Premier Doug Ford visited Simcoe County to witness the aftermath.

“In my opinion this is 10 times worse than it was 25 years ago because of the damage,” the premier said during a visit to Orillia on April 4.

As cleanup efforts continue, the City of Barrie has once again announced it would extend landfill depot hours this weekend to 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Sat., April 12, and 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Sun., April 13 for residents.

“The City is also waiving residential brush tipping fees at the landfill until May 2 to support ice storm cleanup,” the City stated. “The Recycling Depot, located at the lower gate area of the site is temporarily accepting small loads of residential brush debris.”

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