Welcome to CWATS
With its flat terrain and stunning shoreline vistas, Essex County is home to some of the best bicycling and walking opportunities in the province, if not the country. The County Wide Active Transportation System seeks to leverage these natural attributes by building an ever-expanding network of trails and pathways.
Over the next 15 years, CWATS will link seven local municipalities with an active transportation network spanning some 800 km. The program promotes healthy and active lifestyles. It recognizes the importance connected trails can play in supporting both tourism and residential development. Residents can easily access this network and tourists can use it to visit historic sites or area wineries.
The County of Essex has partnered with our seven local municipalities, the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA), the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU), our neighbouring municipalities and the Ministry of Transportation Ontario (MTO) to build a cycling and pedestrian network that improves lives and unites communities.
Get out and get active and join us on our ongoing journey!
Walk. Ride. County Wide!
Current Projects
CWATS is developing bikeways and pathways throughout Essex County. There will eventually be an 800-km network connecting our seven local municipalities.
Places to Go
Essex County is surrounded on three sides by water and is Canada's southern-most region. Our trails wind past spectacular scenery and connect you to wineries, distilleries and scores of historic sites.
Staying Safe
The key to enjoying a healthy and active lifestyle is to stay safe and avoid injuries by paying attention. Know the rules of the road and use patience and common sense.
Photos
View our photo galleries to explore our area, view the Waterfront Trail Ride, and to see past CWATS celebrations.
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