We are delighted to invite you to a guided tour of Gananoque Lake Nature Reserve! This biodiverse refuge for 25+ species at risk is part of the Frontenac Arch wildlife corridor from the Adirondacks to Algonquin.

This is special opportunity for us to explore a 60-acre property that Ontario Nature is seeking to protect. The property owner and current steward of the nature reserve has kindly offered to give us a special tour of his land that we hope will eventually be protected as part of the nature reserve. Stay tuned for more information – our fundraising campaign launches in May!

Local naturalists and experts from the Ottawa Field Naturalists’ Club will lead us through the mature hardwood forest, cliff-like rock outcroppings, rock barrens and verdant shores of the new property. We will also celebrate the expansion of the Lost Bay Nature Reserve, located nearby on the lake’s eastern arm, but not accessible to the public. Friends and family are welcome to join, and snacks are on us! 

When:

Morning: 8:30am - 10:30am 

Afternoon: 12:00pm - 2:00pm

Please choose a ticket for EITHER the morning session OR the afternoon session. 

Where: Gananoque Lake Nature Reserve 

Terrain: Travel to the nature reserve will involve a 1km walk down a gravel road. There will be two hike options depending on your skill and ability. One hike will involve walking on hilly gravel roads. A more challenging hike will involve walking off-trail through the forest over a few larger hills and more difficult terrain.

Food and drink: Please bring your own refillable water bottle. Light snacks and water will be provided by Ontario Nature.

Bathroom: There will be an outhouse on site. 

Accessibility and Other Details: This event will be held rain or shine. Please dress for the weather and bring a re-fillable water bottle, binoculars (if you have them), a fold-up chair if you wish.

Clothing: Please wear closed toed shoes and long pants. There are black legged ticks in the area, so we ask participants to tuck their pants into their socks and conduct tick checks regularly. We will be going ahead with the tour rain or shine so please dress accordingly.

Directions: Located approximately 17 kilometres northeast of Gananoque, in the township of the Front of Leeds and Lansdowne. From the 401, take Highway 2 east to Kyes Road. Travel north on Kyes Road and take a short jog east on Fairfax Road. Turn north at Russell Road then turn left at Sand Bay Road. Park at the end of Sand Bay Road ensuring you do not turn onto or Block Sand Bay Lane. We will have signs to welcome you and staff directing visitors on site.

Overnight Accommodations: If you are travelling far to visit and are looking for accommodations, we recommend staying in the town of Gananoque!

Parking:  Please park along the road and do not block access to any of the laneways used by local residents. Please do not block local traffic. The parking lot is approximately 1km from the nature reserve and staff will be on site to direct you.

Questions? Contact Lisa Kamenar at lisak@ontarionature.org or at 1-800-440-2366 ext. 233

By participating in the event, you agree to abide by the Event Code of Conduct.