Adventure seekers, here’s your chance to explore a true relic of Canada’s past. There’s a lakeside Ontario park that is a must-see this summer, not because of its nature experiences and beaches but rather for its restored, early 1900s mine. Here’s why you should add Murphys Point Provincial Park to your radar.

Just over a three-and-a-half-hour drive east of Toronto, north of Kingston is Murphys Point Provincial Park. This little piece of nature’s paradise is located on Big Rideau Lake which is part of the historic Rideau Waterway.

For the true nature enthusiast, this park provides a great mix of wildlife habitats such as forests, wetlands, and three lakes. Not only is this Ontario park a great choice to be one with nature, but it also offers a variety of activities for all to enjoy.

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That includes fishing, wildlife viewing, biking, boating, canoeing trails, two beaches, and hiking trails. Though there are five trails to choose from, easy or moderate, the Silver Queen Mine Trail stands out amongst them all.

The 2 km partial loop begins from the Lally Homestead and leads to the restored, early 1900s partially open pit mica mine, heritage displays, and the rebuilt miner’s bunkhouse, according to Ontario Parks.

Though you are allowed to take a self-guided tour along the trail, in order to access the mine you must pre-register for a tour.

Guided hikes and tours can be booked through the gatehouse or by calling the park at 613-267-5060 x0. “Please note that while pets are allowed on the hike (on leash), they are not allowed in the mine or buildings. Wearing suitable footwear such as running shoes or hiking boots is strongly recommended.”

On select days there are open house dates for the mine where a reservation/registration is not required. Make sure to check out the official events list to find out when you can explore the Silver Queen Mine.

Since it is a far trip if you’re coming from Toronto, camping might be an option for you. Murphys Point Provincial Park is one of the parks that has a 14-night maximum stay from July 1 to the Saturday of Labour Day long weekend. They offer car camping, group camping, and roofed accommodations.

Fee

According to Ontario Parks, the cost of a Day Use permit depends on the time of the year whether it be on or off-season, and by park. As for Murphy’s Point Provincial Park, the Daily Vehicle Permit is priced at $15.50 after tax.

After this experience, if you’re still in the mining mood, there are other Ontario mines and caves just waiting to be explored.

Murphys Point Provincial Park

Where: 2243 Elmgrove Road, R.R. 5 – Perth, ON
When: Until October 10, 2023 (reopens December 8, 2023)

Information on Murphys Point Provincial Park is from Ontario Parks, and is accurate as of publication date.

Karen Doradea

Karen Doradea

Senior Staff Writer, Toronto – Karen is a multimedia journalist based in Toronto. With a strong knowledge of reporting and editing through all forms of media, she has a true passion for storytelling. She carries several years of journalistic experience and has covered the Toronto scene from local stories to national news. When Karen isn’t publishing fire content, you can find her binge-watching sitcoms on Netflix, at a must-try restaurant, or scrolling endlessly on TikTok looking for the next best thing – News never sleeps.

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