The Rideau Trail Association (RTA) is a charitable organization that stewards over 40 trails that span over 450 km. The main trail, known as the Rideau Trail, is roughly 325 km in length, and goes between downtown Kingston and downtown Ottawa. All RTA trails are located in the general area of the Rideau Canal and its tributary waters. The main Rideau Trail threads its way through Provincial Parks, Conservation Areas, historic sites, Rideau Canal lock areas, historic towns and villages, as well as many areas of private property. The RTA encourages use of all its trails for self-propelled recreational purposes including hiking, trail running, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and cycling (where the trail permits). The RTA operates on a volunteer basis under a Board of Directors, with three subordinate clubs – Kingston, Central and Ottawa. The three local clubs are responsible for organizing outings (e.g. hikes) and local club events.
