The best walks and hikes around Big Rideau Lake
4.7
(3)
87
hikers
10
hikes
Hiking around Big Rideau Lake offers a variety of trails through a landscape characterized by dense woodlands, rolling hills, and shoreline paths along the lake. The region features conservation areas and provincial parks, providing diverse natural environments for outdoor activities. Elevations are generally gentle, with most ascents under 100 meters, making many routes accessible.
Best hiking trails around Big Rideau Lake
- The most popular hiking route is Foley Mountain Conservation Area outer loop, a 4.0 miles (6.4 km) trail…
Last updated: November 7, 2026
5.0
(1)
22
hikers
6.40km
01:45
100m
100m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
16
hikers
6.11km
01:35
30m
30m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
1
hikers
4.42km
01:13
70m
70m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
7.65km
01:57
30m
30m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
5
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
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Popular around Big Rideau Lake
Tips from the Community
White Pine Trail is a 1.2-kilometre loop through the wooded interior of Foley Mountain Conservation Area. Expect a natural forest trail with granite outcrops and uneven footing rather than a manicured path. It’s one of the shorter loops in the network, so it’s easy to combine with nearby trails if you want to explore more of the mountain without committing to one of the longer circuits.
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Murphy's Point Provincial Park protects a classic Canadian Shield landscape of granite ridges, mixed forest, wetlands, and lakeshore. The park is particularly known for its excellent hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and the historic Silver Queen Mica Mine, one of the few mines in Ontario open for guided tours. With direct access to Big Rideau Lake and a network of well-maintained trails, it's one of the region's best places to experience eastern Ontario's natural scenery.
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As the largest lake on the Rideau Canal system, Big Rideau Lake stretches across a maze of bays, islands, and rocky shorelines. Several sections of the trail follow the water's edge, offering uninterrupted views across the lake and opportunities to spot loons, herons, and passing boats. The combination of clear water, exposed granite, and forested shoreline creates some of the most scenic viewpoints in Murphy's Point Provincial Park.
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This easy loop combines many of the park's best features into a relatively short walk. The trail winds through mature forest, crosses smooth Canadian Shield bedrock, and repeatedly returns to the shoreline of Big Rideau Lake. Frequent openings in the trees provide views across the lake and surrounding islands, while the mostly level terrain makes for a relaxed hike. It's an excellent introduction to Murphy's Point Provincial Park's mix of forest, granite outcrops, and lakeshore scenery.
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Spy Rock is a scenic viewpoint accessible via a short boardwalk, making for smooth travel. The edge of the viewpoint is roped off, so please respect the ropes and stay behind them while enjoying views of the Main Street Bridge, which separates Westport Pond to the west and Mulvilles Bay to the east, with the small settlement of Westport sitting right in between.
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The Blue Circle Trail takes hikers just north of the Beaver Pond through lush forests of 38 tree species, which include lofty pines and white oaks.
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Take Meditation Trail, a short spur off Orange Maple Trail, to the shores of Upper Rideau Lake to get a wonderful view across the water. Upper Rideau Lake is the highest point in the Rideau Canal UNESCO World Heritage Site, sitting at 125 meters above sea level.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Big Rideau Lake?
There are 8 hiking routes documented on komoot for the Big Rideau Lake area. These trails range from easy to moderate difficulty, offering options for various skill levels.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the Big Rideau Lake area is well-suited for beginners and families, with 6 out of 8 routes classified as easy. Trails like the Foley Mountain Conservation Area outer loop offer gentle elevations and scenic views, making them ideal for a relaxed outing.
What is the typical length and duration of hikes in this region?
Hikes around Big Rideau Lake vary in length, with most routes falling between 4.5 km and 8.2 km. You can expect to spend anywhere from 1 hour 10 minutes to just over 2 hours on the trails, depending on the specific route and your pace.
Are there any loop trails available around Big Rideau Lake?
Yes, many of the trails in the Big Rideau Lake area are convenient loop routes. Examples include the Spy Rock loop from Westport and the Silver Queen Mine loop from Murphys Point Provincial Park, which allow you to start and end at the same point.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the hiking trails?
The hiking trails around Big Rideau Lake offer a diverse landscape of dense woodlands, gentle rolling hills, and picturesque shoreline paths. Many routes provide scenic viewpoints overlooking the lake, especially from elevated spots like Spy Rock or Foley Mountain.
Is the Big Rideau Lake area suitable for dog-friendly hiking?
Many conservation areas and provincial parks in Ontario, including those around Big Rideau Lake, generally welcome dogs on trails, provided they are kept on a leash. It's always best to check the specific regulations of individual parks or conservation areas like Murphys Point Provincial Park before your visit.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails?
Parking is typically available at the entrances to conservation areas and provincial parks that host hiking trails. For instance, you'll find designated parking at Foley Mountain Conservation Area and Murphys Point Provincial Park, which serve as starting points for several popular routes.
What is the best time of year to go hiking around Big Rideau Lake?
The Big Rideau Lake area is beautiful for hiking from spring through fall. Spring offers lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while autumn provides stunning fall foliage. Summer is also popular, though trails can be busier. Winter hiking is possible, but conditions may require appropriate gear.
Are there any specific landmarks or points of interest along the trails?
Yes, the area features several points of interest. The Spy Rock loop from Westport leads to Spy Rock, a notable scenic viewpoint. The Silver Queen Mine loop from Murphys Point Provincial Park explores the historical site of an old mica mine within the provincial park.
What do other hikers say about the trails around Big Rideau Lake?
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Big Rideau Lake, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful natural surroundings, and the rewarding lake views from various lookouts.
Are there any moderate difficulty trails for more experienced hikers?
Yes, for those seeking a bit more challenge, there are 2 moderate trails available. The Silver Queen Mine loop from Murphys Point Provincial Park and the Murphy's Point Day Use Beach loop from Murphys Point Provincial Park offer slightly longer distances and varied terrain, providing a good workout while still being accessible.
Can I access these hiking trails using public transport?
Public transport options directly to trailheads around Big Rideau Lake are generally limited. Most visitors access the trails by car, especially to reach conservation areas and provincial parks. It's advisable to plan for private transportation.
Most popular routes around Big Rideau Lake
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