We are so lucky to live in a province that’s home to some of the most stunning and breathtaking nature experiences around. From gorgeous lookouts to rare forests and historic caves – there’s so much to do and see in Ontario. If you’re a hiking enthusiast and love a rewarding finish to your trek, there’s an Ontario nature reserve with hiking trails that lead you to a stunning lookout point. Here’s what to know about Rock Dunder Nature Reserve.

If you live in Kingston and the surrounding area, you’ve most likely either heard of this place or have trailed it more times than you can count.

You’ll find this lovely gem in Morton, ON, just over three hours east of Toronto. Rock Dunder Nature Reserve “lies within the UNESCO Thousand Islands Frontenac Arch Biosphere Reserve” and its viewpoint rises 275 ft above Morton Bay, per its official site.

The site was once owned by Scouts Canada for almost 40 years but back in 2006, Rideau Waterway Land Trust members and supporters raised funds to purchase it.

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Here you’ll find three hiking loops to choose from, The Morton Bay Loop, The Summit Loop, and The Scout Cabin Trail.

All trails connect to each other and create a loop. But, per the map, your journey begins on the Summit Loop whose elevation is comparable to “climbing a 20-storey building.” Come prepared!

The climb runs “alongside Dean’s Island through a variety of forest, offering sneak peeks over rocky cliffs, according to the Rock Dunder Nature Reserve site.

Once you finally reach the lookout point, you’ll be left in awe of the stunning panoramic views of the Rideau Waterway.

The Morton Bay trail leads you to a small peninsular outlook over Morton Bay, according to its official site, so that is another option if you’re not ready to take on the challenge.

Either way, you’re in for a treat!

Fees

Now until November 15th, 2024, the price of a Day pass per hiker is $6 and for a family of two adults and two or more children, it is $20.

The price does not change whether it be a weekday adventure or weekend trip. Those can be purchased online or in person at the Rock Dunder trailhead.

It’s a popular destination for those in southeastern Ontario thanks to its stunning views, but don’t take our word for it.

Explore Rock Dunder this summer and enjoy it to its fullest.

Rock Dunder Nature Reserve

Where: 72 Stanley Lash Ln, Morton ON
When: Open until November 15th, 2024
Cost: $6 per person/$20 for families

Karen Doradea

Karen Doradea

Managing Editor, 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 Crave, at a must-try restaurant, or scrolling endlessly on TikTok looking for the next best thing – News never sleeps.

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