You guys should really do these tests in Alberta or BC, we have lots of offroad areas that dont require you to truck in sand and gravel to make obstacles. Plus, you can take said vehicles on mountain roads to see what they are like. Need a heavy load to test trailering capabilities, no problem, Ive got a few friends with gooseneck trailers and players choice of offroad buggies, water tanks or bobcats for weight.
Agree 100% There are many off road areas a few hours drive north of the GTA that could facilitate the test. Groomed gravel mounds is not even close to reality
The trail that was built simulated what the majority of CUV/SUV buyers would run into (FYI, the Toyota RAV4 failed the trail, as its exhaust is too low and struck a rock on one of my runs).
As for taking it to another venue, its kinda hard. Niagara has the ability to accommodate all the journalists flown in, manufacturer reps, and support staff while still being handy to some more rural roads without being too far from manufacturer head offices.
For example, GM has 11 entries this year (IIRC) which means they need to bring three examples of each vehicle. That's 33 vehicles that need to be brought to TestFest. To take that many vehicles to BC, AB, or even Atlantic Canada is extremely cost prohibitive. If it is too cost prohibitive for the manufacturers, they won't show up, and there are less competitors to be judged.