Leitrim Wetland Boardwalk

Leitrim Wetland Boardwalk

Length: 500 metres (one way)

Time: 10-15 minutes

Terrain: Easy

Located in the South Ottawa suburb of Findley Creek is the new Leitrim Wetland Boardwalk. Part of the South Nation Watershed, this provincially significant wetland is home to many unique plants and animals. The trailhead is located off Findley Creek Drive near the intersection of White Alder Avenue (N45 18.835 - W075 36.502). Though unmarked, it is not hard to find as it is visible from the street.

The boardwalk is great for every member of the family, including the pooch. Along the trail, you'll be introduced to white pines, cedar swamps, tamarack and spongy marsh land. The boardwalk ends at a small platform overlooking the regionally distinct calcareous fen.

Make sure you keep your eyes open for wildlife. Creatures that call the wetland home include Deer, Moose, Snapping Turtles and the Great Blue Heron. For more information on the Leitrim Wetland you can visit the South Nation Conservation website (click here) or you can check out the information plaque located about 500 metres to the east along Findley Creek Drive.

Foley Mountain Conservation Area

Foley Mountain Conservation Area

Length: 9 km trail system

Time: 3-4 hours

Terrain: Easy-Moderate

Located on the north shore of Upper Rideau Lake is Foley Mountain Conservation Area. With over nine kilometers of hiking trails and scenic views, the park has something for everyone. The entrance to Foley Mountain is off Country Road 10 just north of the Village of Westport and there is a $6.00 entry fee (per vehicle) which is payable by cash or credit.

A must see is the Spy Rock Lookout which is located near the first parking area (N 44 41.068 W 076 23.527). From the clifftop you get a full 180° view of the lake and Westport.

Spy Rock Lookout

This parking area is also a great spot to start your hike as you have access to three different trails. To the north you can take the 1.3 km (loop) Beaver Trail which follows the shoreline of an old Beaver Pond. To the east is the 3 km Blue Circle Trail which takes you though wetlands and hardwood forests.

Beaver Pond

To the south is the 1.8 km White Pine Trail which takes you along the ridge line above Upper Rideau Lake towards the Interpretive Centre. This section is also part of Rideau Trail system which runs from Ottawa to Kingston. For the most part, this trail is quite easy and mostly downhill. There are a few soggy spots and in the Spring there could be streams crossing the trail.

White Pine Trail in the Spring

If you're at the point where you need a break why not stop by the Interpretive Centre and learn about the park. Also located here is a second parking are (closed in the off season), washrooms and the wheelchair friendly, Mobility Trail. This short walk has views of the lake as well as information panels on how the region was formed.

Mobility Trail

Each trail is marked with their own unique identifier and maps can be found near both parking lots or with the scan of a smartphone (look for the QR code). Whether you're looking for a easy walk or a tough hike, Foley Mountain will not disappoint.

W.E. Burton Conservation Area

W.E. Burton Conservation Area

Length: 3 km trail system

Time: 60-90 minutes

Terrain: Easy

Located in the small community of Russell, Ontario is the W.E. Burton Conservation Area. This park on the Castor River has a picnic area as well as three kilometres of hiking trails. Parking is located off Church Street at N45 15.547 W075 20.860.

The Castor River is part of the South Nation Watershed which also home to the Russell Dam and Reservoir. As you follow the trail there are several spots where you can enjoy a nice view river and dam.

Not far from the dam is a open field which houses a covered picnic area. If you're with the family, this is a great spot to take a quick break and enjoy a snack. The river around the dam is fenced in so there are no worries about the little ones getting too close to the water.

The W.E. Conservation area is a great spot to take the family or dog for an afternoon hike. With the exception of a few roots, the trail is wheelchair friendly and an enjoyable trek for all.