Our Guide to Summer in Lanark County

Escape to Lanark County this Summer!

With numerous hiking trails, lush forests, and serene paddling spots along tranquil rivers, there’s something for all types of adventurers.

Explore charming villages and unearth hidden gems for an unforgettable summer adventure.

Choose from our Mason, Mica, Rhya, Juniper, Joni, or Ember cabins as your Base Camp. Here are the Top 5 Things to Do in Lanark County during your CABINSCAPE retreat.

CAFE CRAWL

Experience the charm of Lanark County’s small villages while indulging in the perfect summer day of exploring cozy cafes and bakeries.

Here’s a few of our top picks:

FieldHouse, Perth, ON
Offering freshly brewed coffee and a selection of homemade baked goods, perfect for a morning pick-me-up or afternoon treat.

North Market, Almonte, ON
Featuring a diverse menu of specialty coffees, teas, and light bites in a welcoming atmosphere, ideal for a casual meet-up with friends.

Coutts Coffee Roastery & Cafe, Perth,ON
Known for its artisanal coffee blends and delicious pastries, making it a favorite spot among locals and visitors alike for a relaxing coffee break.

Once you’re fully caffeinated, why not indulge your taste buds with a visit to Cartwright Springs Brewery, conveniently located right on our Joni cabin grounds. Take a one-hour tour to explore the facilities, from the beer vats to the natural spring.

PADDLER’S PARADISE

Adventurers will enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or paddle boarding along the scenic river, surrounded by lush greenery and abundant wildlife.

Just an 8-minute drive from our Mica and Rhya cabins lies Murphy’s Point Provincial Park, spanning across 1,239 hectares. Nestled within the historic Rideau Waterway, which earned UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2007, the park is steeped in history and natural beauty.

Visitors to the park can embark on a scenic 6km canoe loop, with two brief portages. This paddle is rated as “easy to moderate” and features inviting stopping points like the charming Park Store patio, the historic McParlan House, or the hike-in beach.

Nestled along the Fall River, our Ember & Juniper Cabins offer the perfect retreat for paddling enthusiasts. With easy access to the water, guests can embark on leisurely canoeing adventures, enjoy fishing, and explore the nearby lakes. Each of these cabins comes complete with a complimentary canoe for your enjoyment throughout your stay.

Looking for more water adventures? Check out local paddling itineraries here

HIKE THE LANARK HIGHLANDS

Lanark Highlands is a nature lover’s oasis, with numerous trails winding through forests, meadows, and alongside sparkling lakes.

Adventurers can embark on scenic hikes, discovering hidden waterfalls, panoramic viewpoints, and quiet picnic spots along the way..

Check out more information on the Lanark Highland trails

For those wanting to stay close to home base, many of our Lanark County cabins have conservation areas, massive properties or trails to experience on-site or very close to your cabin! Some suggestions are:

Hike the Rideau Valley Trail system, a 387 km network of hiking trails between the City of Kingston and the City of Ottawa
Take a scenic-drive to Frontenac Provincial Park for more challenging hiking experiences. You’ll find over 100km of great trails in this park all year round!
Wander the Tay-Havelock trail (walking distance from our Juniper and Ember cabins) or Meisel Woods Conservation Area. Discover them all during your stay!

Each cabin lives in its own unique environment, with trails varying from meandering creek walks to rugged bush walks with lookouts of the Ottawa Valley. Grab your hiking boots and explore them all at your leisure!

EXPLORE HERITAGE & HISTORY

Lanark County is rich in heritage and history, with several museums, historic sites, and heritage buildings waiting to be explored.

Some of our favourites include:

Heritage House Museum
Featuring changing displays of Smiths Falls artifacts and history, travelling exhibits and art shows
Smiths Falls, ON

Mississippi Valley Textile Museum
Showcasing exhibits and education on fibre arts and a centre for the study of industrial textiles
Almonte, ON

Perth Museum
Travel back in time to 1840’s Perth. Offering self-guided tours for up to 5 guests
Perth, ON

VISIT LOCAL FARMS & MARKETS

Explore Lanark County’s farm-to-table treasures by visiting local farms and markets, a must-do summer activity full of fresh flavors and country charm.

Mississippi Berries, Lanark, ON
Farm stand and “pick-your-own” strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and more

Perth Farmers Market, Perth, ON
Discover fresh produce, artisinal goods and handmade crafts

Sylvia’s 4th Line Florals, Perth, ON
Farm stand flower shop offering stunning, selve serve florals

Plan ahead! Since these activities are seasonal, operating hours and availability may vary. It’s a good idea to call ahead or check their website before you go.