Cornwall is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with amazing experiences for every season. You can cycle, walk or run the Waterfront Trail, take a hike in one of the many parks or experience nature up close at one of the conservation areas. Cornwall also had world class fishing, golfing, scuba diving and beaches. Whether your outdoor adventure is action packed or more relaxed you will find just what you are looking for here in Cornwall.
Cornwall has been a destination for cyclist for a number of years now. The celebrated Waterfront Trail that passes through Cornwall and SDG Counties along the beautiful St. Lawrence River, has developed a reputation for some of the best cycling in the province.
The scenery and convenient accessibility attracts cyclists to the region from near and far. The Waterfront Trail is perfect for family cycle trips, with plenty to see and do along the way, including great food, beautiful public beaches, and awesome attractions such as Upper Canada Village in Morrisburg, Lost Villages in Long Sault and Cornwall Museum in Lamoureux Park in Cornwall.
Cycle enthusiasts have created cycle routes throughout the region that are specifically designed with safety in mind and enjoyable for all levels of riders. There are routes ranging from 10 km to over 200 km. Many of the routes can begin in the waterfront Lamoureux park in Cornwall which was recently named “cycle friendly” and offers free parking through the lot at the Cornwall Civic Complex.
Check out the customized routes on Ride with GPS
The St. Lawrence River is a multispecies angler’s paradise and is known around the world as being one of the best fishing hotspots in North America. The diverse structure of the river and the ample supply of forage fish make it an ideal fishing location, offering opportunities to fish for some of the most sought after sport and coarse fish, including; perch, musky, walleye, sturgeon, pike and more. Bass and carp fishing are amongst the most popular, with a number of organized fishing tournaments each year.
Catch the next world-record musky by trolling large crankbaits and inline spinners at 4 to 5 miles per hour to cover the large expanses of the river and entice a strike.
Reel in some impressive northern pike using a more traditional method of casting slender minnow profile crankbaits along weed edges, rocky points and shoal tops.
Troll deeper water breaklines and humps using slender minnow profile crankbaits to reel in some massive walleye.
One of the most effective ways to attract the smallmouth bass is to dropshot four to five-inch paddletail soft plastics in darker patterns to mimic gobies, one of the smallmouth bass’ main food sources.
Attracting angler’s from around the globe, the carp found in Cornwall and the Counties are always up for putting up a fight. 30 to 40-pound carp are common for shore anglers and can be caught with bait as simple as corn kernels.
**You must hold a valid Ontario Fishing License and follow the specific rules and regulations for the zone you are fishing in. Cornwall is in Zone 20.
Hiking can be described as a long, vigorous walk in the countryside.
In Cornwall, we tend to be a little bit broader in our definition, as the region offers a wide range of hiking opportunities, from scenic waterfront trails to woodland paths. There is something for everyone, and for all abilities.
Whether you are a pro hiker or just looking for an afternoon stroll, there is a trail for you out there. Here are some of the best:
Lamoureux Park is a perfect trail head that offers free parking and public restrooms. From the park you can head west along the Waterfront Trail, offering scenic vistas along the St. Lawrence River and the Cornwall Canal. Heading east will take you past Marina 200, the Cotton Mill District, St. Lawrence College and the NAV CENTRE. If you are looking for a shorter stroll, take the Lamoureux Park Loop which connects you to the waterfall in the EcoGardens to the RCAF Wing, Cornwall Community Museum and Civic Complex. All of the paths are paved multi-use paths which accommodate hikers, runners and cyclists. Lamoureux Park is also located in heart of Cornwall, which means excellent dining and shopping are only minutes away!
Guindon Park is a large waterfront park in Cornwall’s west end that has a number of trail options and amenities. Easily accessed by car or by bike via the Waterfront Trail. It has a play area, picnic spots and boat launch. New is the Cornwall BMX Track, the longest sanctioned BMX track in Ontario. Popular in winter with snowshoe trails and cross country skiing. Geocaches on site.
Very nice trail just on the outskirts of Cornwall. Free parking and a number of trail options that take you in and out of natural forested areas. Most of the trail is wide, it is easy to traverse and offers a mix of terrain with minimal hills. It does not offer scenic vistas, but does provide a wonderful forest environment. Also connected to Cornwall bike path network and the adjacent Waterfront Trail that runs along the St. Lawrence River.
Proper footwear and comfortable clothing is a must on any hike. Be sure to bring water and stay hydrated regardless of the season or temperature. In summer months you will want protection from the sun and if your trail takes you into a forest, some type of insect repellant. Most trails are dog friendly, just remember to pick up after your pet!
You can search for these trails and others in the Cornwall and SDG area by visting AllTrails
Lace up your sneakers and hit the trails, Cornwall and Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry have a route for every runner.
Running has become a popular activity for people of all ages, and each runner is usually looking for the same thing – a safe route that will circle back to the starting point, with points of interest along the way. Fortunately, every hamlet and village can offer runners a unique experience.
The Waterfront Trail connects the entire region with a paved route along the St. Lawrence River. The route in Cornwall is completely separated from the roadway, offering scenic views away from automotive dangers. The City’s recreational path also extends for another 35 km throughout the city.
In South Stormont, runners can head out on the Long Sault Parkway which connects 11 small islands.
For those looking for a more natural experience, head out onto the trails at one of several conservation areas. These trails are often a mix of forest floor and built surfaces, and have defined short, medium and long loops.
Races are a popular way to measure your progress and speed against other runners. 5k races and friendly duathlons are held throughout the year. The larger organized events include the Run to end MS Marathon which attracts over 600 runners and the Cornwall Triathlon which attracts over 500 participants.
The Cornwall Multisport Club is a local club that helps promote the sport of running as well as putting on events throughout the year. Check in with them if you are looking for running partners!
Cornwall and Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry boast an amazing array of golf courses that will provide a fun challenge for golfers of any ability. Find a list of golf course below.
1160 South Branch Road, Cornwall
613-938-8009
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You can always find a tee-time at Summerheights Golf Links in Cornwall, the largest golf course in the region. Summerheights offers two dynamic 18-hole layouts with a full-service clubhouse and dining room. Enjoy the putting green or driving range before you had out on the links.
6740 Sutherland Avenue, Cornwall
613-931-1122
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Situated along the banks of the St. Lawrence River, the Cornwall Golf and Country Club is one of Canada’s oldest golf clubs.
Recognized as a premier golf course in Eastern Ontario, the course features lush fairways, challenging water hazards and strategically positioned bunkers as well as small, speedy and tricky greens. Two outdoor patios offer spectacular views of the course and the river.
13745 SDG County Road 2, Morrisburg
613-543-2003
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The Upper Canada Golf Course in Morrisburg was designed by noted architect Robbie Robinson and its 18 holes offers glimpses of natural beauty and wildlife like no other course.
20511 McCormick Road, Alexandria
613-525-2912
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The Glengarry Golf and Country Club is nestled among rolling hills in Alexandria. The Garry and Delisle Rivers wind their way through the property, coming into play on many holes.
11937 Cloverdale Road, Winchester
613-774-0076
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Cloverdale Links Golf Course near Winchester offers a true links style challenge with wide rolling fairways and large greens. The unpredictable winds are a factor that you quickly learn to respect when selecting the proper club.
20015 SDG County Road 2, Lancaster
613-341-3738
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Work up an apetitite with this 27 hole course at Heritage Golf Club in Lancaster, and eat at their restaurant located on the grounds.
4201 Saddlemire Road, Williamsburg
613-535-2323
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Cedar Glen is a semi-private golf facility offering a challenging 9 hole, Double Tee Arrangement for 18 Hole play, countryside course.
One of the favourite activities for both residents and visitors alike is to take in the scenery on the Waterfront Trail.
The Waterfront Trail is a 2100 km series of trails that connects the Great Lakes to the Quebec Border.
Cornwall’s portion of the Waterfront Trail is a dedicated off-road multi-use trail that spans the entire city’s waterfront, offering stunning views of the Cornwall Canal and the St. Lawrence River and connecting to a number of attractions. It is very popular with cycling and running enthusiasts.
As you approach Cornwall, the Trail runs through Guindon Park before turning south at Power Dam Drive. Take a moment to visit the St. Lawrence Power Development Visitor Centre and snap a photo of the impressive RH Saunders Power Dam. Continue east along the remains of the historic Cornwall Canal and travel underneath the brand new bridge that connects Cornwall to Cornwall Island. Next up is beautiful Lamoureux Park, home to the Cornwall Civic Complex, Cornwall Curling Centre, Cornwall Aquatic Centre, Cornwall Community Museum, and the Cornwall Sports Hall of Fame. This is a great opportunity to grab a bite to eat in any of the fabulous restaurants along Pitt Street. The Trail continues along Marina 200 and through the Historic Cotton Mill District.
East of Cornwall, a short detour will take you to Gray’s Creek Conservation Area where you’ll find 5km of meandering trails through natural landscape. The Waterfront Trail continues through South Glengarry until the Quebec Border.
West of Cornwall, the Waterfront Trail follows the Long Sault Parkway, which travels through a series of 11 islands that were created from high points of land left after the flooding of the St. Lawrence River during the construction of the Seaway in the 1950s. In fact, several villages once stood where the river now lies, a fascinating story captured at the Lost Villages Museum.
The Great Lakes Waterfront Trail has been designated a Trail of Distinction as its unique wetlands, forests and beaches creates an incredible route of discovery through Ontario’s rich natural heritage.
Divers, from beginners to experts meet to experience vibrant underwater plant and animal life and explore over 40 dive sites throughout the region. From Glen Walter, to Iroquois sites include the famous Eastcliffe Hall shipwreck, a Great Lakes cargo ship that sank in the 1970s, the underwater remnants of the famous Lost Villages, which were flooded during the construction of the St. Lawrence Seaway Project and the Rail Bridge and Lock 21—known as one of Canada’s top five shore dives.
You can rent diving equipment at 02togo Dive Centre
Check out some of these dive sites
The mighty St. Lawrence River attracts visitors for its beautiful beaches, picnic areas and breathtaking scenery; it also offers a great place to spend the day.
Take advantage of several full-service marinas and convenient boat launches along the river from Iroquois to Lancaster. Enjoy waterskiing and jet-skiing or anchor and head ashore for a beach picnic. The region’s waterway is also a great opportunity to sail, or drift by canoe or kayak past islands full of natural beauty. When under sail in the western stretch of the river, be sure to connect with the Stormont Yacht Club in Long Sault.
100 Water Street East, Cornwall
613-932-8301 (Off season: (613) 938-9400)
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The hub of boating activity on the Cornwall waterfront is Marina 200. The marina is a first-class facility located immediately east of the Cornwall Civic Complex on the St. Lawrence River. Marina 200 is open from mid May to early October.
Use chart 1433
You can reach the Marina on VHF 68.
18045 County Road 2, Cornwall
613-938-3611
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Within Gray’s Creek Conservation Area you will find Gray’s Creek Marina. The marina provides boaters and fishermen alike with immediate access to the St. Lawrence River. Located strategically at the mouth of Gray’s Creek, the Marina comfortably provides 128 open slips, which can be rented during the boating season. The Marina opens in late April.
Crysler Park Marina
13480 County Road 2 Morrisburg
613-543-3254
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More info
Roger’s Marina
19442 County Road 2 Summerstown
613-931-1443
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Galop Canal-Iroquois Landing Marina
50 Boat House Road Iroquois
613-652-1305
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Dive in and enjoy the views and cooling effect of the beautiful St. Lawrence river at one of the many amazing beaches in the area. Bring a picnic and make a day of it. For a little extra fun check out Mike & Jenny’s Paddle Fit for paddle and watersport rentals.
19788 County Road 2, Summerstown, ON
613-931-0944
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20800 SDG County Road 2, Lancaster, ON
1-800-437-2233
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15890 Long Sault Parkway, Long Sault, ON
613-534-8202
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15174 Long Sault Parkway, Ingleside, ON
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13480 County Road 2, Morrisburg, ON
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20020 S.D.G. County Road 2, South Glengarry
613-938-3611
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Located a short drive outside the City is one of the most significant wetland conservation areas in all of Ontario. Follow the wetland boardwalk or climb the viewing platform to explore over 130 species of birds, a wide variety of amphibians, turtles and fish as well as some almost extinct mammals that call the Marsh home.
18045 County Road 2, Cornwall, ON
613-938-3611
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The Conservation Area is located just minutes east of Cornwall, in the Township of South Glengarry. It offers over 43 hectares of natural landscape for the enjoyment of both residents and visitors. This diverse area is protected, enhanced and restored by the Raisin Region Conservation Authority.
Gray’s Creek includes five kilometers (5 km) of meandering trails that are open year round, allowing users to enjoy nature in all its seasonal settings. Explore the trails and keep an eye out for the wide variety of animals, songbirds, amphibians and waterfowl that inhabit this significant Conservation Area. Geocaches are also hidden with the trail system.
Gray’s Creek also has Copeland Park, a picturesque family park with picnic area , shelter, kids’ play structure, and charcoal BBQ for your convenience. Outhouses and public washrooms are available for your convenience.
5591 Morrisons Road, Ingleside
613-537-2020
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The Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary was established in 1961 on lands acquired by the St. Lawrence Parks Commission after the construction of the St. Lawrence Seaway. The sanctuary covers 9,000 hectares of a variety of wildlife habitats, including: a mature upland forest, early successional woods, old fields, wetlands and open water. With more than 8 kilometers of self-guided nature trails winding through these habitats, the seasoned birder and amateur naturalist, alike, have excellent opportunities to view up to 200 waterfowl, raptor, passerine and other bird species.
Water Street West, Cornwall
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A jewel on Cornwall’s waterfront, Lamoureux Park features the Rotary Eco-Gardens, an environmental oasis featuring a mini waterfall, native plants and a variety of wildlife. The nearby Arboretum showcases 44 different types of tree species.
The park includes the iconic Clock Tower, historical plaques and other sites of interest. Lamoureux Park is the gathering place for both active and passive activities such as outdoor concerts and festivals it also includes the Cornwall Community Museum and amenities such as an outdoor gym, splash pad, boat launch and picnic area.
Vincent Massey Drive West, Cornwall ON (just west of Power Dam Drive)
613-938-9898
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Guindon Park is comprised of 500 acres of land with picnic areas, hiking trails, children’s play structure, waterfront areas, boat launch and dock, and more. It is easily accessible all-year round. The park is separated into three areas: The Eastern Entrance, Floral Drive, and Trillium Drive.
Eastern Entrance
This is primarily used for trails and hiking. The paths are followed by lush forests and maps are located throughout the trails. There are over 12km of trails used for cross-country ski or snowmobiles in the winter or equestrian riding in the summer.
Floral Drive
This is an open park area with picnic tables, restrooms and access to the bike path and trails. It serves to highlight as a rest stop for cyclists, snowmobiles, joggers, equestrian riders, etc. There are hidden ponds and spots to sit to enjoy the beautiful landscape of the area.
Trillium Drive
This is where the children’s large play structure is located as well as a large parking lot. There is a boat launch and dock for the St. Lawrence River. There are also several geocaches hidden in the area.
For permits, memberships and day passes visit the Benson Centre at 800 Seventh Street West, Cornwall, ON
15005 Long Sault Parkway, Ingleside
613-543-3704
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The Long Sault Parkway is a series of 11 islands that were created from high points of land left after the flooding of the St. Lawrence River during the construction of the Seaway in the 1950’s. These islands include parks, campgrounds, beaches and more!
19403 Airport Road, Summerstown
613-930-6625
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Located just a 20-minute drive from downtown Cornwall, the Cornwall Regional Airport provides an excellent place to stop for aviators travelling through Central Canada. Canada Customs Service is available for flights originating from the USA.
The airport features a single 3500ft paved runway and washroom facilities. Both AvGas and Jet Fuel are available 24 hours a day.
People looking to take a flight may contact Cornwall Aviation which maintains offices at the airport, or contact the Cornwall Flying Club, which organizes a number of fly-ins and other events.
More information can be found on the following: