A scenic stretch of Niagara-on-the-Lake will set the stage for a community walk this weekend to mark International Trails Day.

The Town of NOTL and the Upper Canada Heritage Trail committee are hosting a community walk on Saturday, June 7, being held at Veterans’ Memorial Park on King Street.

Local Special Olympics World Games medalists Carter Simpson and Ewen Barclay, who were both in Italy this past March for the winter games, will lead the walk. Simpson, who’s from NOTL, brought back two bronze medals in alpine skiing this year.

The route follows the Heritage Trail from the memorial park to East and West Line and Concession 1 Road, approximately four kilometres in total. 

The walk, which starts at 1 p.m., is free and open to all ages. Participants can choose to walk all or part of the trail and may extend the walk to Line 3 Road if they want.

No registration is needed, and there is plenty of free parking, according to a May 29 news release from the town.  

Although it’s free to attend, organizers are accepting donations for the ongoing restoration of the heritage trail, which can be made by cash or cheque and are appreciated, the release states. 

In the release, chief administrator Bruce Zvaniga said the heritage trail continues to be a meaningful way to bring residents together and that he’s thankful for the staff and committee who put this together. 

Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa said it’s a chance to enjoy the trail system while supporting active living and community connection. He also said it’s an honour to walk alongside inspiring local athletes.

Veterans Memorial Park is located at 370 King St.