Get ready to kick and glide through Rideau Lakes! Cross country skiing season is here and this is the best place to explore the woods, marvel at water views and discover historic villages.

Check out these four trails while you’re waxing up the skis.

Newboro Memorial Park

This multi-use park is perfect for learning to ski! Blaze your own path on the 1 km non-motorized trail and be rewarded with feeling refreshed by the calm of nature. Discover the park and trails at 27 John Street, Newboro. If you’ve got littles in tow, look for animal tracks in the snow (we hear there are resident rabbits!) and even read the storybook installation along one of the trails.

Shillington Park

With an easy trail through the wooded area surrounding the ball diamond, tennis courts and playground, Shillington Park provides a simple 600 m loop. This is a great spot to try out cross country skiing! Find solitude and a new sport here. Have a peek at the trail map; located at 875 Concession Road 8, Westport.

Cataraqui Trail

When the snow flies, the Cataraqui Trail is groomed for use by snowmobiles – but skiers are welcome to share the trail, too! This multi-use trail follows the former Canadian National Railway line from Smiths Falls to Strathcona near Napanee, with many scenic spots along the stretches that pass through Rideau Lakes. The trail runs alongside lakes, farmland, fields, streams and even over bridges and rock cliffs, showcasing the beauty of the Canadian Shield. Look at the interactive trail map to determine where to access the trail

Cataraqui Trail photo by Dave Bland and Linda Oberman-Bland (Newboro Now) 

Winter Hike at Foley Mountain

Foley Mountain Conservation Area is famous for its stunning scenic lookout and well-maintained trail system. Experience more than 10 km of trails! Purchase a day pass for $8. Operated by the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority, find Foley Mountain at 105 Foley Mountain Lane in Westport.

Foley Mountain Conservation Area Facebook Page 

Rideau Trail

Did you know that some parts of the Rideau Trail are great for skiing and snowshoeing? The trail is the longest in the area extending from Kingston to Ottawa and is maintained by the Rideau Trail Association and goes right through Rideau Lakes. It even hits spots like Foley Mountain Conservation area and Mill Pond Conservation Area. Before heading out be sure to look at trail conditions and maps.

Mill Pond Conservation Area photo by Matthew Liteplo 

Shake off those skis and love the snowy season in Rideau Lakes!