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Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre is a natural habitat and protected area in Simcoe County and is home to nearly 25km of year-round multi-use trails, as well as many other ways to connect with nature. The Marsh, located in Tay Township, is about halfway between Midland and Port McNicoll but will offer a true sense of remoteness once you are out on the trails or wetland boardwalks.
Credit: Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre
The Wye Marsh and Mud Lake beside the wetlands are all fed by the waters of Georgian Bay to the north.
Given the wetlands’ location on the south shores of Georgian Bay and Lake Huron, the Wye Marsh is home to a diverse population of birds and other wildlife. It is one of the best places to go near Georgian Bay for either the spring or fall bird migrations and to see many other types of wildlife any other time of year.
Wye Marsh Trails – Boardwalks & More
The park’s hiking trails head at the parking lot and Visitor’s Centre and lead visitors to the waterfront. This initial Hardwood trail is part of the Marsh March and is accessible for wheelchair users and strollers. Once at the waterfront, hikers can head north or south.
- Take on the Marsh March (south) to get the best views of not only the wetlands but also the wildlife that inhabit the area. This 1.9km trail is wheelchair and stroller friendly!
- The Muskrat Loop and Woodland Trail (south), to the east of the Marsh, combine to create a ~3km trail through the scenic wooded areas of the park.
- Head north from the Hardwood Trail to follow a more rugged path around the Marsh with the Waterfront I.D Trail and Suzanne McDonald Boardwalk. This path creates a 0.9km loop.
- The Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre has 25km of trails to explore!
Birding & Wildlife Viewing Opportunities at the Wye Marsh
Workshops and guided tours may provide opportunities to get closer to the resident animals and birds (those who cannot be released into the wild) of the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre. Additionally, one needs only to walk around the park’s trails to get glimpses of the birds and wildlife that remain wild.
- During migration seasons, the park plays host to flocks of trumpeter swans. And year-round, many different types of birds of prey are spotted in the skies or treetops.
- There are many types of smaller wildlife that will appear in the water or on the trails, including turtles, frogs, squirrels, deer, and more.
Guided Programs at Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre
Credit: Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre
Exploring Wye Marsh is even more special when you join one of their guided tours. Led by knowledgeable naturalists, these experiences offer a deeper look into the marsh’s unique ecosystems and seasonal wildlife activity. Plus, kids can take part in year-round camp opportunities that are focused on things like wildlife, nature, and outdoor recreation.
For those eager to get out on the water, canoe and kayak tours take you well beyond the walking trails and into the heart of the marsh’s secluded waterways:
- Guided Canoe Tours: Hop into a voyageur-style canoe and paddle through peaceful channels where you might spot midland painted turtles, bullfrogs, red-winged blackbirds, or even a curious river otter. Along the way, guides share insight into the cultural, ecological, and historical importance of the marsh, making this a relaxing yet informative adventure.
- Guided Kayak Tours: Prefer paddling solo or in tandem? Guided kayak tours also explore the hidden marsh channels and offer close encounters with the wildlife that thrives in these quiet waters. Suitable for ages 8 and up, and are a great way to discover parts of the marsh that aren’t accessible by foot.
- Kayak EcoTours: For a longer, more immersive experience, book a private three-hour kayak ecotour. These go deep into the marsh, offering a chance to see rare species like the Least Bittern or Trumpeter Swans—if you’re lucky and quiet!
Track all the upcoming events at the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre through their Facebook page or website. Examples of the Centre’s programming include summer workshops for yoga, paddle tours, a Halloween party, or snowshoe tours, to name a few.
Winter at the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre
Credit: Richard Tweney/Flickr/CC BY-ND 2.0
Choose between an array of family-friendly activities to enjoy during the snowier months at the Wye Marsh. The trails remain open, including a separate section in the trees on the Graham McDonald Snowshoe Trail or another for cross-country skiing. And for those without this special winter footwear, the Centre offers rentals! This includes rentals for traditional wooden snowshoes or modern aluminum and plastic snowshoes.
Planning Your Trip – Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre
Credit: Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre
What: A wetland area on the southern shores of Georgian Bay. The Wye Marsh Wildlife Area is home to a diverse wildlife population, as well as listed species like the Blanding’s turtle and trumpeter swans. Beyond being a public park for recreation like hiking and snowshoeing, the park also operates year-round educational programs, workshops, and celebrations.
Location 16160 Highway 12 East, Midland
Extend your trip by exploring Midland, Tay Township or Penetanguishene.
Best time to go: open year-round, closed December 24, 25, 26.
Trails: 9:00am – 4:00pm (November – April).
Trails: 9:00am – 4:30pm (May – October).
Cost: Adult – $12.00 + HST
Seniors (65+) and Children (4-17) – $9.00 + HST
Children (3 and under) – Free
Guided programs – more.
For more information:
