Building Features

With 1,580-square meters (17,000-square feet) of barrier-free space, the building features dormitory rooms for up to 80 people as well as two roomy and dedicated suites that can accommodate up to six individuals. The suites are separate, but adjacent to the dormitory area and provide privacy, security, and respect for everyone’s personal space. Each suite is outfitted with separate washroom and shower facilities, its own phone line and WiFi access.

The building features a 222-square-meter (2,400-square feet) Great Hall with a beautiful stone fireplace; a cozy gathering place where Overnight Experience groups share meals and learn fun ways to lower their own impact on the environment. As well, there are two other, dedicated classroom spaces for break-out sessions, the Learning Gallery, Mudroom, an administration area, the Oak Ridges Moraine Information Centre, and a Resource Room dedicated to the identification, habitat and adaptation of flora and fauna native to the Ganaraska Forest and surrounding areas.

Forest Centre LayoutThe Ganaraska Forest Centre also houses a full-service commercial kitchen, staffed by certified culinary professionals who offer a healthy and adaptable menu to suit special dietary concerns.

The Ganaraska Forest Centre is a multi-use facility that adheres to a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) system of construction and incorporates environmentally friendly wood species, green roof areas, solar energy, recycled roof tiles and other materials made of recycled rubber, wood, and ceramics; all in an effort to demonstrate our leadership in solid conservation strategies.