The best walks and hikes around Drummond/North Elmsley
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Hiking around Drummond North Elmsley offers access to a network of trails characterized by conservation areas, marshlands, and recreational pathways. The region features a mix of forested sections and open routes, providing diverse natural settings for outdoor activities. Elevation changes are generally gentle, making many trails accessible for various fitness levels. The landscape includes areas around local ponds and rivers, contributing to varied scenery.
Best hiking trails around Drummond North Elmsley
- The most popular hiking route is Ottawa Valley Recreational…
Last updated: November 1, 2026
16
hikers
6.11km
01:35
30m
30m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
5
hikers
4.33km
01:06
10m
10m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
2
hikers
4.25km
01:05
10m
10m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
18.3km
04:38
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
10
hikers
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
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Popular around Drummond/North Elmsley
Tips from the Community
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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The trails can get a little wet in spring, but come at the right time of year and the woods are filled with wildflowers. This is a great spot for wildlife sightings too, including birds and sometimes coyotes.
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There are four to five parking spots here by the dog park, but you can also find street parking by the snow dump to get access to the woods. There is a well-maintained gravel spur trail that leads to Ferrill Park in town and makes for a great alternate entrance.
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This is a quiet, easy network of trails with some rooted sections that takes you on a stroll through the forest. You may want to download the komoot map before you go, since the trails is person are not well marked - otherwise they are pleasant.
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A white crushed gravel path takes you around the sports fields of Lower Reach Park. The Rideau Trail itself follows around 400 kilometres of historic and scenic pathway between Kingston and Ottawa.
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The modern lock is on the north side of the island, and you can cross over to it from a riverside path that takes you directly along the water's edge. This historic one on the south side is smaller and now quite overgrown.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of hiking trails can I expect in Drummond/North Elmsley?
Drummond/North Elmsley offers a variety of trails, primarily characterized by conservation areas, marshlands, and recreational pathways. You'll find a mix of forested sections and open routes, often with gentle elevation changes, making them suitable for different fitness levels. Many routes feature views of local ponds and rivers.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, the region has several easy trails. For instance, the Mill Pond Conservation Area loop from Mill Pond Conservation Area is an easy 3.1 km path that offers a pleasant walk around the pond. Another accessible option is the Tay Marsh Lookout Tower loop from Perth Wildlife Reserve, which is a 2.5 km trail through marshland.
Can I find long-distance hiking routes in the area?
Yes, for those seeking a longer trek, the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail via Carleton Place — Ottawa offers a substantial 18.3 km moderate route. This trail follows a long-distance recreational path, providing an extended outdoor experience.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Drummond/North Elmsley?
Yes, several trails are designed as loops. The Mill Pond – Mill Pond Conservation Area loop from Mill Pond Conservation Area is a popular 4.6 km easy circular path that takes you around the pond and through natural areas. The Silver Queen Mine loop from Murphys Point Provincial Park is another moderate circular option, covering 8.2 km.
What is the best season for hiking in Drummond/North Elmsley?
The trails in Drummond/North Elmsley are enjoyable across multiple seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with fall foliage being particularly beautiful. Summer is great for longer days, while some trails may be suitable for winter hiking, depending on conditions and snow cover.
Are the hiking trails in Drummond/North Elmsley family-friendly?
Many trails in Drummond/North Elmsley are suitable for families due to their gentle elevation and well-maintained paths. Easy loops through conservation areas, such as those around Mill Pond, are ideal for outings with children, offering opportunities to explore nature without strenuous climbs.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the trails?
Given the region's conservation areas, marshlands, and forested sections, hikers may encounter various local wildlife. This can include different bird species, small mammals, and aquatic life around ponds and rivers. The Tay Marsh area, in particular, is known for its natural habitats.
Are there any trails that offer scenic viewpoints or unique natural features?
The Tay Marsh Lookout Tower loop from Perth Wildlife Reserve offers a unique feature with its lookout tower, providing elevated views over the marshland and surrounding natural habitats. Trails around Mill Pond also provide scenic views of the water and its natural setting.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Drummond/North Elmsley?
The hiking experiences in Drummond/North Elmsley are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the accessible nature of the trails, the peaceful conservation areas, and the varied scenery that includes marshlands and recreational paths.
Are there any historical or cultural points of interest along the hiking routes?
While the region is rich in natural beauty, some trails also offer glimpses into the area's past. For example, the Silver Queen Mine loop from Murphys Point Provincial Park takes you through a provincial park that features historical elements related to mining.
What are the typical trail conditions like in Drummond/North Elmsley?
Trails in Drummond/North Elmsley generally feature well-defined paths through conservation areas, marshlands, and along recreational routes. Elevation changes are typically gentle, making most trails accessible. Conditions can vary with weather, so it's always advisable to check local forecasts before heading out.
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