Maintenance Work at York Regional Forest Pefferlaw Tract

Where is Pefferlaw Tract?
Pefferlaw Tract is located at 24408 Lake Ridge Road in the Town of Georgina.

What work is taking place in Pefferlaw Tract?
Fencing installed along Forestry Drive is being illegally cut by unauthorized motorized vehicle users to access the tract. To discourage unauthorized motorized vehicle use, large boulders will be installed along Forestry Drive in fall 2026 and fencing will be replaced after boulders have been installed.

Why are you removing trees?
Some trees will need to be removed so that new boulders and fencing can be safely installed.  We will only remove the trees that are necessary to complete the work.

When will the work take place?
The work is scheduled to begin in the fall of 2026.

Will the tract close while work is happening?
The tract will remain open however the trails that have entrances/exits on Forestry Drive will be closed. All work will occur on weekdays and visitors are reminded to stay clear of equipment and operations.

Are unauthorized motorized vehicles allowed in any other York Regional Forest Tracts?
Unauthorized motorized vehicles including all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), dirt bikes and snowmobiles are not permitted in any of the York Regional Forest tracts.

What is the issue with driving unauthorized motorized vehicles in the Forest?
Unauthorized motorized vehicle use in the York Regional Forest causes damage to trails, disturbs wildlife, can destroy sensitive habitats and disrupt the ecological integrity of the Forest. These vehicles also pose a potential danger to Forest visitors.

What do I do if I see someone driving an unauthorized motorized vehicle in the Forest?
If you see someone driving an unauthorized motorized vehicle in the Forest, contact the York Regional Police non-emergency number at 1-866-876-5423.

What happens if someone is caught driving an unauthorized motorized vehicle?
Those operating ATVs/dirt bikes in the York Regional Forest, including Pefferlaw Tract, can be charged by the York Regional Police under the Trespass to Property Act and issued a ticket.

Where can I drive my ATV?
If you’re looking for ATV trails in Ontario, visit destinationontario.com

What activities are permitted in the York Regional Forest?
The York Regional Forest has over 150 kilometres of trails for public use including dog walking, hiking, nature appreciation, mountain biking, horseback riding, snowshoeing, cross country skiing and more. Visit york.ca/YRF for more information.

If I come across an issue while visiting the York Regional Forest, how should I report it?
York Region staff monitor trails throughout the year and perform maintenance as required. If, however, you come across an issue during your visit, contact us at 1-877-464-9675 to report it.