Canadians have always shown an affinity for nature, whether it’s hiking through parks and trails, hitting some balls at a local golf club, or simply spending a day at the beach. Our connection with the outdoors has been renewed as of late, as we look for new ways to spend time with friends and family in a safer environment closer to home.
Carleton Place is a perfect community to enjoy outdoor landscapes, commune with nature, and enjoy all that Mother Nature has to offer. There’s simply something for everyone. So whether you’re planning a day with the kids, an escape for the adults, or some serious fun with friends, here are some great ways to rediscover the great outdoors right here in Carleton Place.
Take a Hike
- Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail (OVRT) – The OVRT is part of a former rail bed that spans part of the 296-kilometre corridor between Mattawa and Smiths Falls. The roughly 30-kilometre stretch through Carleton Place runs from Smiths Falls to Renfrew and offers a safe, level, gravel surface (paved in some sections) for cycling, walking, and hiking.
- The Mississippi Riverwalk Trail – Soak in nature along this trail that follows the Mississippi River from Princess Street to Anthony Curro Park. This 1.9 km stone dust trail is wheelchair accessible and is a haven for both water and land birds and other wildlife. Cross bridges over the marshy area and observe the variety of wildflowers and foliage. By taking a few side streets, avid hikers can then join up to the Trans Canada Trail or explore the Arllan to Stone Water Gate sub-trail.
- O-Kee-Lee Park Nature Trail – This lovely stone dust covered trail meanders for 0.6 km through a filled-in wetland area featuring a variety of flora and fauna – old willows, woodland ponds, honeysuckle, wild grapes, and mountain ash berries that attract local wildlife. Access the trail at the end of Joseph Street, beside Centennial Park.
- Sonnenburg Woods – This passive green space with a small parking lot has no official paths. Located at 15 Bates Drive, this is a natural, non-maintained trail. Whether you’re walking or bird watching, this is the perfect trail to enjoy nature’s beauty.
Go Jump in the Lake
- Our Local Beaches – Life really is better on the lake, or beach for that matter. Head to the beach and enjoy some fun in the sun. Riverside Park offers a sandy beach with lifeguards, a splash pad, swings, and lots of green space to enjoy. Centennial Park has a big soccer field and a sloped beachfront, and tends to be a little quieter.
- Launch Your Boat – Want to spend the day cruising the lake in a boat or on a jet ski? You can park safely at the public boat launch located at the end of Lake Avenue West – trailer parking is available with a day pass. Or drop your canoe or kayak in off one of the docks in north Riverside Park and enjoy some fresh air and exercise.
- Places to Fish and Info on Tackle Share – Is a day of leisurely fishing more your style? There are a number of great spots to drop a line, including the docks at North Riverside Park, or fly-fishing in the shallows by the McNeely Bridge just off the Mississippi Riverwalk Trail. Need some equipment? We offer a free tackle-share program at the Information Centre at 170 Bridge Street (you will need a fishing licence).
Have a Wheelie Good Time
- Bring a Bike – or Rent One – Want to really explore all that our community has to offer? Bring your bike and head out on one of our amazing trails. We recommend the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail if you really want to break a sweat, or bike out to Beckwith on the Beckwith Trail and visit Beckwith Park.
- Pump Track – Want to build skills and confidence? Hit the pump track. Our local pump track is a looped sequence of rollers and berms for bike riders. It’s designed to maximize your momentum, so you can ride it with minimal pedaling. It’s great for all ability levels and is a fun way to learn.
- Pick a Route – Whether you want to stick to the trails or take a longer road route, check out the Lanark County bike map. Just pick a route and start pedalling.
Park It
- Carleton Junction, 142 Franktown Road – Make a day of it at Carleton Junction. You and your kids will love the colourful, fun, train-themed play structure that’s sure to entertain for hours on end. Bring your bikes and skateboards, and be sure to check out the pump track and skate park – or just bring a picnic blanket and lie out in the sun.
- Dog Park, Edmund Street – Looking for a great place to take Fido? Check out the fully enclosed dog park behind the Carleton Place Pool – a great place for dogs (and their owners) to run free, off leash, and do “doggie” things.
- Town Hall Square, 15 Mill Street – A great place to reflect, watch the sunset, read a book, and spend some quiet time. Located right beside Town Hall and the Mississippi River, you’re sure to capture some amazing pics here too.
- Carleton Place & Beckwith Heritage Museum and Community Labyrinth, Edmund Street – Spend the day outside in the community gardens, walk the labyrinth, and bask in the sun. Bring a picnic lunch, or head inside to learn about our local history and much more.
