The Maitland Trail Guide’s story begins in September 1998, when avid hikers Daniel Holm and Patrick Donnelly set out to hike the entire Maitland Trail from end to end as a 40th birthday celebration. Their journey took two days and revealed some challenges: without detailed maps and clear signage, they found themselves scratching their heads as they navigated certain sections of the trail. This experience sparked an idea—if they had difficulty finding their way, so would others. Dan and Pat envisioned a comprehensive trail guide that would make the Maitland Trail accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

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Throughout 1999, Dan and Pat returned to the trail, hiking it section by section to create a reliable resource for future hikers. Working closely with then-Maitland Trail Association President Wendy Hoernig, they developed the first-ever Maitland Trail Guide, published in 2000 to celebrate the MTA's 25th anniversary. The project gained generous support from the River Line Nature Company, the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority, and the Ministry of Natural Resources, and the guide was designed by The Word & Image Studio of Hensall. The result was a 43-page, hiker-friendly booklet filled with trail maps, photos, and written descriptions—an invaluable tool for hikers that helped put the Maitland Trail on the​​​​​​​​​​​ map.

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In 2008, with advancements in technology, a 55-page second edition was produced. Equipped with GPS data and Geographic Information System (GIS) base maps, this updated guide offered more accurate trail information while retaining much of the original content. The new edition was the product of a collaborative effort by dedicated MTA members, including Marg Bushell, Anne and Patrick Capper, Cindy Fisher, Heinz and Wendy Hoernig, Con Melady, Beth Ross, and John Thompson, with additional support from volunteers and the Lower Maitland Stewardship Group. Funding from the Ontario Trillium Foundation made this enhanced version possible.

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Today’s Maitland Trail Guide has evolved into a practical, pocket-sized set of six colourful individual maps—one for each trail section—complete with a chart outlining the route, difficulty level, length, key facts, and descriptions. The current guide is maintained by former MTA board member Kathleen Lush.  The guide embodies the passion and dedication of the many MTA volunteers who have worked tirelessly to make the trail accessible to all.

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As we celebrate the MTA’s 50th anniversary, we’re proud to reflect on the evolution of the Maitland Trail Guide—a vital resource that continues to help hikers discover the beauty of the trail.

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