FRONTENAC PROVINCIAL PARK

                                  Diversity in Rugged Nature Promises a Remarkable Experience

Imagine exploring a meticulously maintained age-old park that encompasses 5,360 hectares (3,200 acres)  of unspoiled terrain and shimmering lakes. Established in 1974, Frontenac Provincial Park is one of the most exciting topographical areas of the historic Frontenac Arch. 

A southerly extension of the Canadian Shield joining the Adirondack Mountains in the south and the Canadian Shield in the north, this area is an ecological transition zone where you can find an intermixing of both northern and southern species.

Ben Chabot, Frontenac Park Superintendent, and Ecologist Erica Kendrick, had much to say  about this highly special Ontario park.  Ben, who has been working at Frontenac since 2015 readily admitted Frontenac was his favorite for many reasons.  

Getting information from Ben and Erica

                                               

Standing proudly 

                 The Many faces of Frontenac

" It’s unique. We have 22 lakes of which 17 are inside the park’s boundaries. Several lakes interconnect taking you to others if you are willing to portage.  For example, Little Clear Lake demands portaging 923 metres over two small hills to reach Big Salmon Lake, the park’s largest lake; it’s five kilometres long and free of motorboats.  You can fish too - even in winter. There’s brook trout, bass and perch which make for great fishing.”

Ben could not stress enough the unique widespread variety of plants -- 789 species. “Given there are 120 kilometers of interconnecting trails and lakes, the choices are  great for the outdoor enthusiast. Each has its own unique features. No matter where you look, there are always surprises.”

Erica expressed her fascination for the rich diversity of flora and fauna. “The park is so unique in its landscape range. Integral to the diversity are four wetland types - marshes, swamps, bogs and fens. 

 They're a source for many water-loving flora and fauna.  They love the acidic, sour soil in these areas.” 

 I didn’t have to look hard to pass by rock barrens of huge boulders – all part of the Frontenac Arch.

 

 Frontenac Arch runs through the park
curtesy of  Frontenac Arch .ca

She explained that the Frontenac Arch is a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It runs from the north of the Canadian Shield to the Adirondacks in the United Sates. “I’ve been working here for a several years, and each time I go on the trails, I notice something new. The changing seasons offer their own magic. The fall season brings a spectacular array of fungi. In the spring, the park is nestled in a carpet of trilliums."

                                                         A Dynamic Dizzying Mix

I was about to witness just how special the flora was within the 1.2-billion-year-old, granite Frontenac Arch. An astounding cornucopia of hardwood and soft wood forests comprise all kinds of ferns, wildflowers, and trees which play an invaluable role to the park’s expansive eco system. 

White pine, shagbark hickory, oak and maple tower over the lush vegetation and wild flowers below. Wood peckers, owls, eagles, even raptors are present.

 The first trail I walked was called Doe Lake Loop. Its 3 kilometer-walk was lovely. Lots of boardwalks for safe footing.

 

Doe Lake Views

  I found a spot to sit and ponder  Doe Lake's peaceful waters.

 Behind me was an old mining shaft -- a testament to the hardy settlers who homesteaded here at the beginning of the 19^th century.

                                             

            Gorgeous Arab Lake Gorge

Branching off Doe Lake Loop is the awesome Arab Lake Gorge Trail. Wow! Everywhere I looked, clusters of strange looking plants appeared among a tangle of branches. Different species seemed to mix into others creating a kaleidoscope of colours and contrasting heights.

  I got a glimpse of those boulders too. One even looked like a gigantic smiling face.

Here we were surprised by the appearance of two deer at the swamp area. They stared at me and then ran across the to the other side. I came upon them again as my walk progressed.

More surprises

Cerulean Warbler

curtesy of Ontario Parks

Near the very end, a small ascent proved challenging as there were no rails or steps. Be aware of this if any mobility issue affects you. The trail is visually dramatic; the forest scents were hypnotic.

           The Serenity of South Otter Lake

Pristine shimmering waters for swimming, canoeing and kayaking are a water-lover's dream. Right from the office lay the languid waters  South Otter Lake. I set out on a gorgeously comfy kayak, which Frontenac Outfitters Canoe and Kayak Centre lent me for the day. You can rent all kinds of equipment from them. They’re in Sydenham - only a stone’s throw away from the park.  My kayak had the most comfortable back rest possible. The kayak glided so smoothly, and was very sturdy. Getting out mid-way, I was overcome with rapture. 

 Silence!

                                                     

The lake is gentle and the water was warm. In the distance, I spotted a lone island. I made my way towards it and kayaked around it.  I didn't see or hear another human being.

Two hawks flew overhead. Were they warning me to stay away from their territory?

                                                                       Island Views

 

 

                  

  




           A lush green-lined shore 

                  

Nearing the dock

    This park is about getting close to the many gifts of nature on terra firma and on watery wonders.

Frontenac Provincial Park with its own gentle soul leaves its inspirational imprint on you. 

Thank you Ben and Erica, and to Zack at Frontenac Outfitters

Frontenac Provincial Park offers 17 wilderness survival skills courses.  In fact, a new  1000-square-foot outdoor classroom is being built for this purpose.  All ages are welcome.

There are 51 campsites – all alongside a lake nestled in the back country. Each has its own firepit and plenty of space separates each campsite, but if you’re the hermit type, there are three campsites for those seeking solitude.

In winter, you can go cross-country skiing and rent snow shoes here. The literature given to you on everything this park offers is exceptionally helpful.

Visit the website: Ontarioparks.com/park/Frontenac or call 613 376-3489.

The address is 6700 Salmon Lake Road, Sydenham, Ontario K0H 2T0.

Make your campsite reservation online, or call 1-888-688-7275.

To get answers to all your questions, call the park office at 613 376-3489. 

For rentals, visit frontenacoutfitters.com or call 613 376 6220.

The address is 6674 Bedford Road, Sydenham K0H 2T0.

photo credit: Yagnesh Mangukiya

NS took photos from her kayak of South  Otter Lake