Recreational Trails

For Additional Information Contact:

Lanark County (613)267-4200, ext. 3100

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• Beckwith: near 2382 10th Line, 10th line of Beckwith
• Beckwith: 510 Perth Road, Franktown Station, County Road 10 (Perth Rd)
• Carleton Place: 17 Coleman Street, Behind the Police/Fire Station
• Almonte: Reserve St (Parking lot runs along the whole street)
• Pakenham – 173 Waba Road

Description:

If you’ve ever wanted to travel off-road in an award-winning region, the time is now. With stellar scenery and world-class views along its  61 kilometre route, the OVRT offers a level, stone dust surface-or-paved trail for cycling, walking, horseback riding, all-terrain vehicles and snowmobiles, which makes this year-round trail an attraction in itself. The OVRT connects multiple communities as an ambitious, multi-year project to repurpose a section of the former Canadian Pacific Railway line running 296-kilometres between Smiths Falls and Mattawa. The railway line rehabilitation project involved partnerships between Lanark County, the County of Renfrew, and the Township of Papineau-Cameron. Parking available at multiple access points. ottawavalleytrail.com

For Additional Information Contact

Mississippi Mills (613) 256-1077 ext.24

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• 14 Bridge St, Almonte, ON - Parking and washrooms are available at Old Town Hall and Visitor Information Centre, 

Description:

Starting from behind Old Town Hall, meander along the beautiful Mississippi River to a breathtaking lookout at the site of the old Victoria Woolen Mill. This lovely trail features a series of bridges over the falls and is a haven for nature lovers, birdwatchers and photographers. 

For Additional Information Contact:

Lanark County (613)267-4200, ext. 3100

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• 1024 Herron Mills Rd., Lanark Highlands

Description:

Dubbed one of the most beautiful trails around, this set of  three loops through forests, featuring boardwalks over a sedge wetland, offers fantastic ecological values and giant maple and beech trees coupled with evidence of pioneer farming and red pine plantations. Parking, picnic tables and interpretive signs on site. 

View or print the Baird Trail Map.

For Additional Information Contact:

Beckwith Township (613) 257-1539

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• 1319 9th Line Beckwith and joins the Beckwith Trail. Parking and washrooms are available at the complex.

Description: 

Take a walk through Beckwith Park (east of Carleton Place off Hwy. 15) with its amazing recreation complex and meander through Goodwood Marsh, where you’ll see abundant wetland species and a variety of birds. The trail starts from behind the arena.

For more information contact:

Beckwith Township (613) 257-1539 of Carleton Place Chamber and Visitor Information (613) 257-1976

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• Parking and washrooms are available at Beckwith Park arena, Beckwith School or Home Depot in Carleton Place

Description:

This gravel-topped accessible trail from Carleton Place to Beckwith Park features three branches (Shady, CJ’s and McGregor) over 3 km and connects to Beckwith Park Trail or the Trans Canada Trail in Carleton Place. See a variety of landscapes, including farmers’ fields and wetlands. There are washrooms located at the Beckwith complex. 

For More Information Contact:

National Conservancy of Canada 1(866) 281-5331

For maps and information are available when you call. 613-321-3583

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• 1631/1633 Clayton Rd at Ramsay Con. 3B, Mississippi Mills. Parking available alongside the road.

Description:

Explore 7.6 km of Land Trust property (Nature Conservancy of Canada) in Mississippi Mills. These nature trails on relatively even terrain. 

For More Information Contact:

Maps Available at Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust Conservancy.

CliffLAND - (613) 259-3412

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• 502 Hills of Peace Rd., Lanark Highlands, ON

Description:

Experience rich biodiversity at one of the Seven Wonders of Lanark County. Meadows, a cascading creek and century-old tree stands are part of the short, steep climb to the top of Blueberry Mountain. 

For More Information Contact:

Lanark Highlands (613) 259-2398

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• This trail starts at the junction of Snye Road south of White Lake at the end of Three Mile Bay in Lanark Highlands. Its beginning and end are marked by signs indicating this is an unmaintained road.

Description: 

This rough, unmaintained road  It is approximately 10 km and, because of the degree of difficulty, requires four-wheel drive or an ATV to enjoy the wild Canadian Shield landscapes if not travelling on foot. Park at the beginning of the road or drive in a few kilometers and walk. There are other trails going off into the bush, which are old logging roads or trails into hunting camps – some of this is private land. 

For More Information Contact:

Mississippi Mills 613-256-1077, ext. 24 

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• This trail that begins in the Carbine Road area north of the Village of Pakenham and follows the hydro line behind Mount Pakenham to Glen Creek, returning down Concession 9.

Description:

The 9-km trail is also suitable for ATVs. Be prepared to meet other motorized vehicles along this route.

For More Information Contact:

Cataraqui Trail Management Board Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority (613) 546-4228, ext. 304

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• Bellamy Dr, Smiths Falls, ON 
• Across from 123 Lombard Street, Smiths Falls

Description:

This four-season multi-use gravel trail stretches for 102.2 km from Smiths Falls to Strathcona as part of the Trans-Canada and Rideau trails. Revel in the history of the former railroad as you pass through or near numerous small communities along the way. 

For More Information Contact:

Lanark County (613)267-4200, ext. 3100

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• 2240 Bathurst 5th Concession

Description:

The newest addition to Lanark County’s trail network, the Conboy Trail is set on an 80-acre woodland property and connects to the Tay Havelock Trail. It was named in honour of the Conboy family who donated the land to Lanark County in 2020, with the expressed intention of extending the public trail system for the benefit of the community.

For More Information Contact:

Lanark Highlands (613) 259-2398

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• The trailhead is located off Hwy. 511 opposite Little Green Lake Road

Description:

Explore beautiful Lanark Highlands along this challenging 6-km trail. If travelling by vehicle, it is only accessible using four-wheel drive or ATVs. There is also parking at the lake access and a privy at the lake. This is a logging road and is not maintained except for forest operations. 

For More Information Contact:

Fulton's Pancake House (613) 256-3867 

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• 291 6th Concession Road, Pakenham, ON

Description:

Enjoy trails of varying lengths through gorgeous maple bush, then refuel with great food at the restaurant. Activities take place daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. between February and April. Groups welcome by appointment and fee applies. Self-guided tour info and maps available at the gift shop. Washrooms, parking and seasonal sleigh rides available. 

For More Information Contact:

Mississippi Mills (613) 256-1077 ext. 24

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

•  182 Bridge St., Almonte, ON. Washrooms and parking available at the community centre.

Description:

These 2- to 3-km trails start from behind the arena on Bridge Street in Almonte (Mississippi Mills) and include several observation points. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of forest and water species along this river walk, including sharp-shinned hawks and merlins, cardinals, grebes and ducks. 

For More Information Contact:

Carleton Place Chamber & Visitor Information Centre (613) 257-1976 

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• Accessible at the north east end of William Street, under the McNeely overpass at the water.
• Accessible at other end of William Street, off Highway 29 (extension of Ramsay concession 8) near 372 William Street, Carleton Place. 

Description:  

This wildlife and bird sanctuary at the edge of Carleton Place consists of one and a half acres of woodland. Named for a prominent Carleton Place resident who was a well-respected and well-known member of the Audubon Society involved in numerous organizations, including the Hydro Electric Commission and Mississippi Valley Conservation, George Findlay organized the first bird count in the Carleton Place area, which has become an annual tradition. 

For More Information Contact:

Lanark Highlands (613) 259-2398

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• 1101 Concession Road 6 North Darling Clayton, ON.

Description:

Formerly a pioneer track, this 1-km trail near Tatlock lands on an unmaintained roadway on Crown land. It takes you on an easy walk through pine forests. If not on foot, this trail is too treacherous to drive without an ATV.  The trail ends at Kate’s Lake, where you can view the water and have a picnic. 

For More Information Contact:

Mississippi Valley Conservation (613) 259-2421

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• There is a trailhead is near 13780 Hwy. 509, with a parking area about 3 km south of Snow Road Station
• There are multiple access points throughout the trail system.
  • 5285 S Lavant Road, Lavant Station, ON
  • Flower Station Road, McDonalds Corners, ON

Description:

Journey along the historic abandoned Kingston to Pembroke railway on this mostly gravel, all-season 62-km trail. Drivers, cyclists, horseback riders, hikers, snowmobilers and skiers revel in its gorgeous lakes and landscapes. For maps, contact Mississippi Valley Conservation.

For More Information Contact:

Lanark Highlands (613) 259-2398

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• Park at the end of the road, near 1122 Lammermoor Road at the intersection of 2nd Concession Dalhousie

Description:

Travel to the end of Lammermoor Road in Lanark Highlands (the first road north of Cty. Rd. 16 after Hopetown) to find an easy 3-km hike along unmaintained roadway through forests and wetlands. The trail ends on a high plateaus of open agricultural fields and a local cemetery. 

For More Information Contact:

Mississippi Valley Conservation (613) 259-2421

Mill of Kintail (613) 256-3610 

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

•  2854 Conc. 8 Ramsay in Almonte, Mississippi Mills, ON

Description:

Explore 4.7 km of walking trails at this historic site, the grounds are operated by Mississippi Valley Conservation, and are open from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from Victoria Day to Thanksgiving. Well-marked trails take you to the mill and over the bridge. Museums, a gatehouse, store, toilets, a playground, parking and picnic area are onsite. Map

For More Information Contact:

Carleton Place Recreation & Culture Department: 613-257-1690 

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• This 1.89-km, stone dust, wheelchair-accessible trail in Carleton Place begins on Princess Street (arena) and winds along the Mississippi River to Anthony Curro Park.

Description:

You’ll find birds and other wildlife, bridges traversing marshy areas and abundant wildflowers and foliage. Take a few side streets to connect to the Trans Canada Trail or check out the Arklan to Stone Water Gate sub-trail. Parking and washrooms at arena; play structures located at the park. 

For More Information Contact:

Murphy's Point (613) 267-5060

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

Located at 2243 ElmGrove Road in Tay Valley Township

Description:

With more than 20 km of trails, you’ll find scenic vistas, historic sites, abundant flora and fauna, varied Canadian Shield landscapes, and even one of the Seven Wonders of Lanark County (Silver Queen Mine). There are varying levels of difficulty, multiple access points, parking lots, washroom facilities and links to the Rideau Trail.

For More Information Contact:

Carleton Place Recreation & Culture Department: 613-257-1690 

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• Access the trail at the end of Joseph Street across from the Carleton Place Canoe Club.

Description:

This stone dust-covered 0.6 km trail meanders through a filled-in wetland area amid old willows and woodland ponds. Honeysuckle, wild grapes and mountain ash berries attract many birds.  Park along roadside. Picnic area and portable toilets are available at Centennial Park from May to October. 

For More Information Contact:

Perth Wildlife Reserve  (613) 692-3571 or 1 (800)-267-3504 

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• 100 Wildlife Road, Perth ON

Description:

Butterflies, birds and beautiful lookouts – see the outstanding features offered here. The Betty Wilson Nature Trail (2.5 km) leads to an observation tower at the stunning Tay Marsh, which teems with life. The Butterfly Trail (0.7 km), features plant species beloved by butterflies. There is onsite parking, an outdoor centre and interpretive signs. 

For More Information Contact:

Mississippi Valley Conservation (613) 259-2421

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• Located at 1541 Concession Road 8, Lanark Highlands, ON

Description:

One of the Seven Wonders of Lanark County, see 10,000 gorgeous Showy Lady’s Slipper orchids on two trails: the 400-m Orchid Trail and the 1.3-km Ted Mosquin Highland Trail loop. , onsite signage tells the story of the blooms. A 400-m wheelchair-accessible boardwalk is onsite, along with pit toilets and parking. Open May 15 to Oct. 15.  

For More Information Contact:

Rideau Trail Association (613) 545-0823

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• There are multiple access points.
  • Parking at Conlon Farm or at the Crystal Palace in Perth
  • Lower Reach Park in Smiths Falls
  • Rosedale Hall in Montague (parking available)
  • 657 Rosedale Road South, Smiths Falls ON

Description:

Avid hikers have no shortage of natural and cultural features to explore on this remarkable all-season, 387-km trail between Ottawa and Kingston. With a range of rugged Canadian Shield lands contrasted with quiet meadows and farmers’ fields along stretches of roadway, this trail offers something for everyone.  A Rideau Trail Guidebook is available. 

For More Information Contact:

Carleton Place Recreation & Culture Department: 613-257-1690 

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• Municipal Boat Launch 

Description:

Enjoy the natural and architectural beauty of Carleton Place along this 0.5-km paved (wheelchair accessible) trail. Head out from the beach at Riverside Park. You’ll find benches, picnic tables, a playground and a boat launch at the end of Lake Avenue West. Parking is available. 

For More Information Contact:

Carleton Place (613) 257-1976 

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

•  370 William St. Carleton Place ON

Description:

Running from just below the McNeely Avenue Bridge at Hwy. 29 in Carleton Place to the junction of Hillcrest Drive and River Road in Appleton, this 7-km accessible trail showcases varied landscapes beside the gorgeous Mississippi River. Watch for prevalent wildlife along the river and in the meadows. There are directional signs and it is open all hours. 

For More Information Contact:

Silver Lake Provincial Park - (613) 268-2000

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• 22726 ON-7, Maberly, ON

Description:

This easy 0.5 km nature trail crosses a marsh by boardwalk and leads to higher ground, where hikers can see the clear transition between wetland and upland forest, rich in flora and fauna. Washrooms, picnic tables, a playground, beach and parking are available.  

For More Information Contact:

Smiths Falls - 1 (888) 923-4124

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• 8 River Street, Smiths Falls, ON

Description:

Follow the heritage of sensational Smiths Falls along the heart of the Rideau Canal Waterway. Sixteen pedestals have been unveiled along this historic waterway offering glimpses into the stories of Smiths Falls industry, culture and achievements.  

For More Information Contact:

Lanark County (613)267-4200, ext. 3100

NOTE:  Tay-Havelock Trail Closure:

To prevent damage and allow the trail to dry, please note the Lanark County section of the Tay-Havelock Trail is now closed to all motorized vehicles and horses.

The trail will remain closed until further notice. Please watch this space for updates.

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• There are multiple access points along the trail
  • Parking and access south of Highway 7 at 18471 ON-7

Description:

Popular with ATV users, this multi-use 25 km stretch within Lanark County along abandoned rail bed can be accessed south of Hwy. 7 at Glen Tay. There are multiple access points as it links with many other legs of the Trans Canada Trail for a journey through gorgeous countryside. 

For More Information Contact:

Lanark County (613)267-4200, ext. 3100

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

•  99 Christie Lake Rd., Perth, ON

Description:

Located on the western outskirts of Perth behind the Lanark County Administration Building and adjacent to the Trans Canada Trail, this 1.5-km loop trail provides a lovely accessible outdoor experience. It passes the Round Garden, which is a unique garden designed for all the senses, as well as community gardens and a white pine reforestation. It is suitable for wheelchairs and includes several park benches.

For More Information Contact:

Perth (613) 267-3311 

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• Trailhead at junction of Thom and John streets. 

Description:

Immerse yourself in Perth’s 200-year history along this 10-km stretch of the Rideau Trail on natural and paved surfaces. Travel either upstream or downstream from the hub at the Tay Basin, using the “navigational trail markers” to guide you, much like buoys in the Tay River. Look through circular viewfinders in each marker to sight the next one and chart your course along the trail. T

For More Information Contact:

Lanark Highlands (613) 253-7000

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• There is parking along with a restaurant and washrooms at 1700 Ferguson’s Falls Road

Description:

Explore the history of sap collection while observing the many species of flora and fauna that call the maple woods home at Temple’s. There is a brochure to accompany this 15- to 25-minute interpretive walk. Restaurant opens Feb. 28 to April 25. 

For More Information Contact:

Lanark County (613)267-4200, ext. 3100

The Great Trail 1 (800) 465-3636

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• Multiple Access Locations

Description:

When completed, this recreational corridor is expected to be the longest trail of its kind in the world, covering more than 22,000 kilometres across Canada. In southern Ontario more than half of the trail has been built along abandoned rail lines. It is a multi-use trail featuring a wide ranging terrains and landscapes that offer many natural and cultural attributes.

The Lanark Link is a 105.7-km section joins the Cataraqui and Glen Tay to Blairton Station trails to make for a scenic journey for multi-users in all seasons. In Lanark County it takes you through the historic communities of Carleton Place, Almonte, Lanark, Perth and Smiths Falls. There are multiple access points to this gravel trail.

For More Information Contact:

Carleton Place - (613) 257-1976

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• Roadside parking is available

Description:

The 7-km Trailway is part of the Trans Canada Trail linking the Lanark Link and the Ottawa-Carleton Trailway sections. It serves as the gateway to the National Capital region. The picturesque route starts at Coleman and Hooper streets in Carleton Place and follows Bridge and Mill streets  and the beautiful Mississippi River to give walkers, hikers and cyclists a peek into 19th-century historical perspectives. Roadside parking is available. 

For More Information Contact:

Thompsons Black Rock Park (613) 256-1020

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• 745 Black Rock Lane, Lanark Highlands

Description:

Discover the tranquil beauty of the maple forest while taking in our self-guided walking tours along the shores of scenic Clayton Lake.  Trails are marked and maps are available at the store located on site.

For More Information Contact:

Nature Conservancy of Canada 1 (866) 281-5331

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• Located at the end of Ramsay Concession Road 4B, Roadside Parking Available

Description: 

There are two main trails (2.3 km) on this Nature Conservancy of Canada property. Offshoots lead to private land. Part of the ecologically significant Wolf Grove Wetland Complex, hikers are treated to fantastic examples of diverse hardwood forest and wetlands (which sometimes flood the trail). Notify the NCC for access, maps and information. 

For More Information Contact:

Wheeler's (613) 278-2090

Trailheads and Parking Locations:

• 1001 Highland Line, McDonalds Corners, ON

Description:

More than 15 km of various trails meander through maple woods, hills and historic buildings, including a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk. Open during business hours, all seasons. Parking at camp. There is a restaurant with washrooms, a playground, farm animals and seasonal activities. In winter, there is access to the K&P snowmobile trail.