Directions: Kingston is in Ontario, at the eastern end of
Lake Ontario, and is the closest city to the trail head. It is about 25
minutes north of highway 401, one of the main arteries through the province,
which is traveled by many people in transit from New York State or Vermont to
parts of Canada.
Trail Information: My favorite is the rocky,
challenging and stunningly gorgeous Slide Lake Loop. It has all that you
want: tough climbs, scenic vistas, some grueling swamp, cow pies, a lake
to jump in to at various points, and easy access. I get to it from The
Rideau Trail access on Division Street, about 25 minutes north of Kingston.
It takes me about an hour and a half to do at a comfortable pace. The park
is loaded with a variety of very beautiful running trails for all levels of
fitness, with something to offer in all seasons.
Additional Information: There are no fees to be in the park,
only to park your car there. This trail head is not in Frontenac Park, but
is part of the Rideau Trail system, a 200km hiking trail from Kingston to
Ottawa. The trail leads in to the park, and therefore you don't pay.
Parking is just off the highway and is quite safe. This is not a densely
populated area (like most of Canada) and few people use these trails. It's
not unusual to be there during the week-end in the summer and only come across
another five or so people. Don't forget to pack a bathing suit in with you
(or not!), as there are lots of places to cool off in some wonderfully fresh,
warm water!
Lyle Robinson.