This ancient biosphere near Toronto is one of Earth’s most significant landscapes, Canada Reviews

Just a short drive from Toronto, the Frontenac Arch, a 1-billion-year-old granite land bridge connecting the expansive Canadian Shield terrain across southeastern Ontario to Upstate New York’s Adirondack Mountains, can be found nestled within the majestic Frontenac Arch Biosphere. The United Nations previously named this area one of the most significant landscapes on earth as part of its Man and the Biosphere (MAB) program, and the best part is — you and your family can explore its natural beauty for yourselves!

This granite land ridge, or ‘arch’, is where the five great forest regions of the eastern continent meet, so it’s a major migration route for plants and animals, and there are hundreds of lakes, trails, and thousands of islands to explore throughout the 270,000-hectare wildlife biosphere corridor.

Frontenac County South is only about a 2-hour drive from Toronto via Highway 401 East, making it a perfect place for a day or weekend trip. As there are tons of recreational opportunities — from hiking and biking to boating, fishing, camping, and even wildlife viewing — the best place to start would be Frontenac Provincial Park, located at the southern end of the Canadian Shield within the biosphere (and encompassing part of the Frontenac Arch).

The 5,350-hectare provincial park is open year-round and has 48 campsites, located between 20 minutes to 3 hours from the parking lot. Bonus: each site includes a tent pad, fire pit, picnic table, privy, and food locker. For those who prefer a more modern stay — Black Oak Lodge is situated on top of a 100-foot-tall granite escarpment and surrounded by nature (but has hotel-style amenities).

You’ll find more than 22 lakes and over 100 kilometres of hiking trails of various difficulties. The most difficult trail is Big Salmon Lake Loop — a 17 km loop, a 5–7-hour trail that circles Big Salmon Lake.  The north side of the trail runs through a forested landscape along some century-old remains of homesteads. It’s a moderately difficult hike but offers scenic views at the east end and south side of the lake.

For an easier walk, opt for Arab Lake Gorge Trail — this 1.5 km loop starts at the Park Office, and only takes 30 minutes to finish. This trail features valley bottom vegetation, various ferns, and a boardwalk with an accompanying interpretive brochure.

Bird lovers will be happy that the park is home to one of the largest populations of Cerulean Warblers in the province. You’ll also likely spot the rare Louisiana waterthrush or the yellow Prairie Warbler.

If you prefer the water, swimming is allowed in all park lakes. Head to Sydenham Point Beach to relax by the water and for the gorgeous view. This area includes a play area, benches, a floating dock, and a snack bar.

Or rent a boat or a canoe and explore the boundary lakes and various canoe routes throughout Frontenac’s lakes and portages. Fishers can catch all types of fish, from Lake Trout, Largemouth, Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, Black Crappie, perch, and even Brook (Speckled) Trout. In the winter, various species of panfish as well as brook trout can be caught.

Speaking of winter, when it gets colder out, many still opt to camp overnight in Frontenac’s backcountry, and there are opportunities for tons of winter activities! Try cross-country skiing on the set pathways (or for a more rugged ambiance, opt for “backcountry skiing” through the silent winter forest). The park also boasts a dedicated 8 km corridor trail for snowshoeing. For a moderate challenge, opt for the  3-km Doe Lake Loop, and for a longer adventure — try the 8-km Bufflehead Trail.

Before you leave, head to Sydenham for a bite to eat at Jim’s Gourmet Fries food truck. According to locals, he makes the most delicious handmade patties, poutine, and perfectly cooked fries.

Of course, there are many other areas to explore in the biosphere, click here for more info. After visiting Frontenac, check out this charming town near Toronto that’s home to Ontario’s only urban provincial park.