Visit Responsibly

Love BruceGreySimcoe? Help Keep It Special

Welcome to BruceGreySimcoe, a beautiful and diverse region complete with fresh water, lush forests, towering escarpments and plunging waterfalls. As a visitor to this area, and as residents enjoying it daily, we have a responsibility to take care of the land, water, wildlife and communities here. We share a common goal of wanting to preserve this special place for generations to come.

Why Visit Responsibly?

Better Experiences: Cleaner, safer, less crowded.
Deeper Connections: Friendlier welcomes, authentic culture.
Legacy Travel: Ensures the same beauty for future visits.

Our Commitment

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In October 2023, BruceGreySimcoe (Regional Tourism Organization 7) achieved Silver Destination Certification from GreenStep, a recognized global provider of sustainable tourism certification.

This certification is based on the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Criteria, which are the internationally accepted standards for sustainable tourism. To achieve Silver status, destinations must undergo:

A rigorous third-party assessment
Evidence-based evaluation
An action plan for continuous improvement

By visiting BruceGreySimcoe, travellers are choosing a destination that has been independently verified for its commitment to sustainability, and is accountable to ongoing international standards.

What is Sustainable Tourism?

The UN World Tourism Organization defines sustainable tourism as “tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities.”

Essentially, we are trying to balance environmental, social/cultural and economic needs. To learn more about our efforts, please visit our industry website at RTO7.ca.

BruceGreySimcoe's 7 Key Principles

At the heart of the region's 'Visit Responsibly' framework are seven key principles that will serve as the foundation for fostering sustainable tourism in the region.

Make the most of your trip by doing your research and booking attractions, accommodations, parking, guides and restaurants in advance. Book ahead to avoid disappointment.

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Keep garbage out of nature to protect plants and animals and keep the outdoors enjoyable for everyone. Carry out your trash, use bins, and pick up litter. Leave rocks and fossils where they are, and avoid carving tree bark, as it harms and shortens the tree's life.

Carpool, use shuttles and walk or bike where allowed as parking is often limited. Be ready to pay for parking to support future infrastructure. Respect private property, emergency access, and share the road with tractors, buggies, bikes, and pedestrians.

On the roads and in our towns, the pace is a little slower here. We like it that way and you will too. Skip the speeding tickets and take some time to enjoy the little things. Slowing down also helps protect our wildlife like snakes, turtles and larger animals crossing our roads.

Follow local rules, fire bans, and wildlife warnings. Check weather updates, signage, or ask locals before heading out. Plan adventures within your abilities, as rugged trails take longer than paved paths. Use the What3Words app to share your location.

Purchase supplies locally, from fresh produce to craft beverages. Hire guides, visit galleries, and learn from cultural experts to truly experience the region. Treat our home as your own and embrace local communities and cultures.

From the water you drink to the water you paddle on and swim in, protect our region’s water by avoiding pollution, cleaning gear before moving between waters, and respecting fishing regulations. Keep shorelines clean while fishing and conserve water use when possible.

When you visit responsibly, you don’t just take a trip, you help keep BruceGreySimcoe extraordinary for today, tomorrow, and years to come.

Inspiration Book