Special Attractions

Trails to our Natural Heritage

Foley Mountain Conservation Area is one of the region's gems. The park features 325 hectares (800 acres) of scenic lookouts, nature trails, mature pine forest, beaver ponds all located on near the shoreline of Upper Rideau Lake.


View from Spy Rock on Foley Mountain

Hike, swim, and picnic in summer or cross country ski and snow shoe in winter. The view of Westport from Spy Rock is truly spectacular. Westport and Rideau Lakes is a core for hiking and cycling enthusiasts. The 300 km Rideau Trail linking Kingston and Ottawa passes through Foley Mountain Conservation Area where other trails can also be explored.

There's also many other Parks and Conservation Areas within easy driving distance that offer hiking opportunities. Cycling is not allowed in most of the parks but the back roads and the new Cataraqui Trail offer cyclists the perfect opportunity to enjoy the country side.

Trails Foley Mountain Conservation Area

  • Foley Mountain offers eight trails including 8 km of the Rideau Trail and a cross-country ski trail. Looped trails offer opportunities for short walk or a long hike.
  • A "Mobility Trail" enables people of all abilities to enjoy the conservation area. Our Mobility Trail is wheel-chair friendly, with a wide crushed-stone path and low-grades.
  • Interpretative Centre - Open during the summer months to view interpretive displays and to consult with park staff on how to enjoy the park.
  • 200 meters of Upper Rideau Lake waterfront including a sandy beach equipped with change rooms, comfort stations and picnic tables.
  • Picnic areas and benches.

A newly constructed trail allows access for people of all physical abilities to enjoy the beauty of Foley Mountain.
  • A diverse habitat filled with a variety of flora and fauna including over 100 species of birds, 38 varieties of trees and many other animals that call Foley Mountain their home. The area is part of the UNESCO designated Frontenac Arch Biosphere Reserve a region with the highest biodiversity in Canada.
  • Outdoor Environmental Education Programs - Schools and groups can participate in hands-on curriculum-based programs helping participants understand our natural world and their relationship with it.
  • A beautiful cedar log chalet to rent for your group event. The Interpretive Centre is the perfect site for a meeting, retreat or family reunion. Situated on a ridge overlooking the Upper Rideau Lake the building includes a large common room with stone fireplace that accommodates 40 people comfortably and has the convenience of a fully equipped kitchen. Contact the Area Supervisor for rates and availability.
  • Overnight stays for youth groups in our group campground (available to organized youth groups). Tenting space for up to 60 people, a covered shelter and available firewood make this campground a perfect site for large group gatherings.
Read more about Foley Park and the important work of the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority http://www.rideauvalley.on.ca/careas/foley/index.html

History on Display

: The Rideau District Museum is located in Westport across from the village Town Hall. The museum was established in 1961 and offers a look at the history of the area. Copies of a self guided walking tour brochure can be obtained from the museum and the Visitor Welcome Centre.


Historic blacksmith and carriage shop constructed in the 1850's is home to the Rideau District Museum.

The museum is open from late May until early September - Monday to Saturday 10:00 am - 4:30 pm and Sunday's from 1:00 pm - 4:30 pm. (Groups by appointment are welcome)

For more information: Rideau District Museum
P.O. Box 305 Westport Ontario
K0G-1X0
Telephone: 613-273-2502

Sun and Fun:

Westport Lion's Club Beach - A classic sand beach located on Sand Lake, just minutes away from the town of Westport offers a back drop for fun, sun and swimming. Operated by the Westport Lion's Club, Sand Beach has been a favourite spot for generations. As noted, it's an easy walk or drive from the village centre on Mountain Road. For more information call 613-273-5789

Canada Day Celebrations - Westport 
The fun starts in Westport at 1 PM with opening ceremonies at The Rideau District Museum followed by a bicycle parade for the kids. Activities then move to the Lions Club Beach where there are Air Castles, Food and entertainment. No Canada Day would be complete without fireworks and the show at the beach is nothing short of spectacular. And, the entertainment is all free! 
 

REST YOUR WEARY HEAD
There’s great hospitality in Westport and Rideau Lakes. Our accommodation partners take personal pride in assuring your comfort. After all, a good night’s rest in cottage country leaves you refreshed for hiking, swimming, boating, maybe a horseback ride, you name it!

YUMMY FOR THE TUMMY
This region is blessed with good, natural food – and great cooks, too. If you plan a visit to the Westport and Rideau Lakes District relax and let someone else take care in the kitchen. Whether looking for a 220 seats for the ultimate party, or a country styled inn – maybe just a simple coffee bar or a full service grocery store, these Chamber members are ready to serve.

DID WE MENTION SHOPPING?
There’s a ton of reasons to visit this area. Fresh air, nature and hiking trails. It’s a great place for a bike or boat ride. But clearly, people love the unique shopping and retail stores found here. Westport Rideau Lakes Chamber members know the value of a dollar; they excel at service and offer a wide selection of goods and services. We really do boast great shopping. Browse our member’s directory.

WATER, WATER, EVERYWHERE:
From May until mid-October boaters use the municipal dock located on Upper Rideau Lake in Westport. Village amenities are easily accessible via a footbridge. Within easy driving of Westport are dozens of lakes; canoeing, boating and fishing are favourite pastimes in the area. Boat and canoe rentals are available in town.
~ WESTPORT & RIDEAU LAKES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ~
BOX 157, WESTPORT ONTARIO, K0G 1X0 PHONE/FAX (613) 273-2929

WEB SITE CREDITS: Photos by Martha Kudrinko, Julia Vamos, Rideau Heritage Route, The Cove, Township of Rideau Lakes, Village of Westport, Rideau Valley Conservation Authority, Paul Legacey, Gord Herington, Forfar Cheese Factory, Parks Canada; Photo of Lt. Col. John By provided by Royal Engineers Royal Engineers Museum of Military Engineering Gillingham, U.K. Parks Canada; Content by B. Judge, Westport Rideau Lakes Chamber of Commerce; Web Team, Jaeson Tanner and Associates