wilderness

There are up to 8kms of trails on this 200 acre property. The beauty is that there are a multitude of side trail loops which gives us the options to hike as short or as long as we want. If you take the outermost loops then you can hike just over 4kms in one circuit.

Mac Johnson is a fantastic family friendly area that's ideal for hiking, birding, running, and snowshoeing. There are often events held at this location through the year and there is a skating pond in the winter.

This waterfalls is stunning and also somewhat accessible in that it is only a few metres from the parking lot so that almost all can enjoy a picnic by the falls. For those with mobility issues requiring aids however, this might be a challenge as there are steps to get down to the falls.

Perth Wildlife Reserve is located on the marsh of a massive 257 hectare reserve. I think ‘wild’ is the right way to describe the place. Not only are some parts of the trails a little overgrown, but all the other areas seemed to be alive with different creatures especially in spring.

Blueberry Mountain is a 4.5km trail that is rich beyond measure in flora, fauna, and has incredibly kind and friendly eco-loving owners. It is privately owned land (CliffLAND) and under a conservation easement with Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust (MMLT).

The most impressive waterfalls in the region with it's 63 metre drop, Chutes de plaisance also offers a significant historical past.

This extremely popular hiking spot offers upper and lower falls through the canyon, however once you start hiking towards the ink pots the crowds significantly diminish. The ink pots, and the valley, are in my opinion, the wow factor on this hike.

This is where the Mississippi Valley Conversation Authority and local volunteers get all the praise, this walking trail is very accessible which is rare. If you’re conscious of accessibility, park in the second parking lot to reach the boardwalk to view the orchids.

Mont Morissette’s observation tower offers an unobstructed 360′ panoramic view of rolling hills and lakes was impressive, especially while dressed in it’s finest fall colours. You can drive up to the tower or hike between 1-7kms. There is also a second lookout on trail #2.

One word: TREEHOUSE. Like how fun is that right? I mean, so what if you’re a grown ass adult. The possibility of staying in a treehouse is still too much fun to pass up. So maybe you bring the kids, and maybe you don’t…staying at Refuges Perchés in parc eco-laurentides is a good spot for outdoor lovers to explore.

A beautiful hike with a natural stone bridge, waterfalls, picnic area, and lake views.

The secret is out! Chute Rouge is only 1.5 hrs (ish) from Ottawa are wonderful, incredible trails full of highlights like this one. There are plenty of options on this trail system, ranging from a few hundred metres (to see the waterfalls) to over 10kms if you joined some of the trails together for an epic hike.

Le Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook offers up an impressive suspension bridge, 16 kms of trails, cabins and campsites, Foresta Lumina, hiking, camping (summer and winter), mountain biking and Snowshoeing, Yukigassen (The battle of snowballs), ice climbing and more.

A long weekend in the Eastern Townships is always a good idea, mostly because they have something for everyone to enjoy. Hiking Mont Pinnacle was an easy win for the day, and we were rewarded with dramatic cliffs, calming waters, fresh winds, and rolling blue green mountains in the backdrop.

Have you heard of Rose Hill Nature Reserve?!? It’s in Lennox & Addington County near the Renfrew County border. For all us country loving locals, that’s between Bon Echo Provincial Park and Calabogie along Hwy 41. It has one of the coolest stories behind it...

The Poole Family Nature Sanctuary is a 110 acre property and the newest addition to MMLT. So new, that the low traffic pathway is barely visible. Thankfully there are plenty of bright trail marker to lead the way.⁠

Warwick Forest is typical of the trails of Stormont, Dundas, & Gelngarry County in that it offers dense forest settings, peaceful paths, and an abundance of wildlife.

Robert Graham Conservation Area is a 140 acres property with 6.5kms of trails with large mature maples and an abundance of bird life. There is a 2km loop option and the trail is considered easy with no elevation.

So here’s the thing – the Alfred Bog Walk may be teeny with only a 278m boardwalk but she’s mighty in flora and fauna is that’s your thing! How?!? Ummm, how about pitchers plants? Or wild orchids? Or a healthy moose population?!?!

With a large 47 hectare site on the Ottawa River with multiple islands, Morris Island Conservation Area is a fun trail system to explore.

Limerick forest is 5782-hectare community forest about 15mins south of Kemptville. It’s been on the list to hike and explore for a while! Once there, all I could think was that it’s a excellent spot to unwind, ground, and find peace. Aaaaand trail run. Or cross-country ski. Or bring the pups.

Ferguson Forest is a great spot for trail runners. And in the winter there are cross country skiers and snowshoers when the weather brings enough snow.

Kenauk Nature is graced with some wonderful hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing trails. They have over 100kms of trails, two waterfalls, and two fire towers that you can climb if brave enough.

If you’re looking for a mini getaway, staying at the rustic-yet-modern cabins at Deacon Escarpment might be for you. I say ‘might’ but really I mean are-you-insane-why-haven’t-you-booked-already?! They have 30 kms of trails, a private lake to canie, more wildlife that I could identify paw prints, and views that leave you full of gratitude.

The trails within the city of Ottawa are diverse, interesting, beautiful, and in abundance. #whoknew So when Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority picked up Carp River as a new Conservation Area right in the heart of city life – it was exciting. Not only is it a a nice wide and relatively flat 4km trail, but it also makes for a stunning sunset backdrop.

With a large 152 acres preserve the Mill of Kintail Conservation Area has five different trails of varied length that take you along the river, deep into the forest and wandering through fields.

Have you ever been to Blakeney Rapids just a few minutes west of Almonte? This local favourite is beautiful park with 1.5km of trails. Small but mighty with a backdrop of thick woods and roaring rapids. An easy to walk and the perfect spot to relax and explore.

Mill Pond Conservation Area was found after taking a look at trails in and around the area of Perth. How was this one missed? With 6kms of trails through forestlands and multiple view points of the ponds, this was a great spot to trail run.

Palmerston Canonto Conservation Area (PCCA) Trails – are fantastic. Why? Because there are multiple trails, some decent elevation for Ontario, and two lookouts. Can it be one of our favourites? I know…there are plenty of “favourites”. Let’s just say it was completely enjoyable and exactly what was needed.

O'Hara Mill Homestead and Conservation Area is rich with history and beautiful backdrops. With 2kms of trails, you'll take a stroll through time with it's Mill, ponds, log homes and interpretive signs.

This relatively moderate effort and family friendly trail is only a 1.2 km loop with water views for over half of it. There is some elevation to the view point (where you can view both lakes), and is best enjoyed if hiking clockwise.

Thomas P Murray Recreational Trails consist of six hiking paths that have incredible panoramic views that you’ll fall in love with. There are fantastic nearby points of interest like a water slide (not what you think) and historic points. Amazing local shops/cafes that you’re sure to enjoy.

No mirage. The large tug boat is there. It’s Shaw Woods Educational Centre inserting another teaching point along the trail. Albeit a big point. Ha ha. There’s historical context and a beautiful new sign explaining it all. With 6 trails, a nature centre, lookout points, and interpretive signs - this is an easy family win.

The Lanark County Community Forest trail is also known as Gun Creek Trail locally. Its a peaceful 2.5km loop hike through the forest with with minimal elevation and a picnic spot by the creek. It’s a family friendly trail, normally quite quiet, and a great spot to practice tree identification.

A very popular hiking area, the NCC’s Shirley’s Bay sector boasts over 7kms of trails with shoreline, wetlands, and treed sections. It is an ecologically significant area with it’s diverse terrain and, to the delight of birders, is along an important bird migration. Over 270 species have been spotted here!

Baxter Conservation Area is the kind of trail you can keep on repeat if you’re looking for an easy hike that’s family friendly! The because of the flat terrain and boardwalks, the trails are great for strollers/mild mobility issues. There are multiple lookout points.

The Stony Swamp sector of the Greenbelt is amazing, I mean really, how lucky are we to have this much greenery within city limits?!?! Within Stony Swamp conservation area you’ll find Old Quarry, Jack Pine, Lime Kiln, Beaver, Chipmunk, Sarsaparilla trails. Each of those trails will be covered in this trail report.

MacNamara Trail is a beautiful spot to enjoy a diverse range of flora and bird life. With multiple interest points along the pathway, it should be noted that the lookout area makes for an excellent sunrise over the water.

It is always a little wild to discover something new so close to home. With the booming question: “how have I not been here before!?!?” Only a few minutes from home, Reveler Conservation Area was a surprising and happy trail to stumble upon.

Ahhhhh home sweet home! #russellproud Anywaaaaaays, J Henry Tweed Conservation in Russell is on 16 acres nestled between the subdivision and the New York Central Fitness Trail.Think of it as a mini forest escape, before going for a bike/run/walk on the paved NYCFT. It’s a lush area with stairs, bridges, and a creek running through it.

Parc nationale de Plasiance offers up a diverse landscape with multiple features like waterfalls, river views, marshlands, boardwalks, observation tower, and a suspension bridge. Not to mention the cycling trails, onsite camping, and kayak/canoe/SUP rentals. It’s a large park, with 28 square kms to explore and enjoy.

“I couldn’t be more content” said Rosalyn, and really, I couldn’t have agreed with her more. We were testing out a road trip idea and hiking trail #7 up Mont Grand Pic in Parc National des Montagnes Noire was part of one road trip itinerary for the Outaouais region. Ouff, did it deliver the wow factor.