
Thousand Islands National Park
Explore over 1,800 islands on the St. Lawrence River, offering stunning boat tours, hiking trails, and historical sites.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fresh weather, fewer crowds

Thousand Islands National Park
Best Time
Fresh weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore over 1,800 islands on the St. Lawrence River, offering stunning boat tours, hiking trails, and historical sites.
"Amazing area and 100% worth taking the cruise that transports you down river and round the many beautiful dotted islands."

🚢 Book Boat Tours Early
Popular cruises can sell out, especially in summer. Book online in advance!
🥾 Explore Hiking Trails
Discover trails at Jones Creek, Mallorytown Landing, and Landon Bay for great views.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Thousand Islands Boat Cruise
St. Lawrence River
Glide past over 1,800 picturesque islands, some inhabited, some not. A must-do for stunning scenery.

Boldt Castle
Heart Island (U.S. side)
An iconic, romantic castle with a fascinating history. Requires a passport for U.S. entry.

Landon Bay Lookout Trail
Landon Bay
Hike to this epic viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views of the islands and river.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Cruise in Advance
Consider the Season for Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Book Boat Tours Early
Popular cruises can sell out, especially in summer. Book online in advance!
🥾 Explore Hiking Trails
Discover trails at Jones Creek, Mallorytown Landing, and Landon Bay for great views.
🛂 Passport for Boldt Castle
If visiting Boldt Castle, remember to bring your passport as it's on the U.S. side.
☀️ Pack for All Weather
Ontario weather can change quickly. Bring layers, even on sunny days.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Book Boat Tours Early
Popular cruises can sell out, especially in summer. Book online in advance!
🥾 Explore Hiking Trails
Discover trails at Jones Creek, Mallorytown Landing, and Landon Bay for great views.
🛂 Passport for Boldt Castle
If visiting Boldt Castle, remember to bring your passport as it's on the U.S. side.
☀️ Pack for All Weather
Ontario weather can change quickly. Bring layers, even on sunny days.
📸 Capture Island Views
The best photos are often from the water. Consider a cruise for unparalleled island perspectives.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking scenery of the Thousand Islands, with boat cruises being a highlight for experiencing the vast number of islands and wildlife. The park offers a relaxing atmosphere for families and friends, though some note that weather can impact the experience.
"Was a great experience, despite heavy rain in the morning we decided to go as its closed deck. But we lucky as rain stopped just before boarding. Staff on ground and on board was very helpful and professional. We enjoyed the lunch in the upper deck as it was included in the package we chose. Overall it was beautiful experience and we had great views from the ship."
Pravesh Sharma
"Amazing area and 100% worth taking the cruise that transports you down river and round the many beautiful dotted islands . Some are inhabited with friendly residents waving at you and you will also see local wildlife and birdlife."
Boyd Ringrose
"Lovely place to stop by any time with friends and family to enjoy the view and relax.
You can go boating or swinging in sone part depending on location and lots of fun for kids and adults.
We are lucky to be just an hour away from 1000 Islands 🏝 and stop here often with kids."
Hash M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Thousand Islands National Park is about a 4-hour drive from Toronto. Many visitors also access the park via Gananoque or Brockville, which are closer and offer various tour boat departures.
While direct public transport to all park areas is limited, you can reach gateway towns like Gananoque or Brockville by bus or train. From there, local taxis or tour operators can assist with park access.
The park has several access points, including Mallorytown Landing, Jones Creek, and Landon Bay. Gananoque is a popular hub for boat tours and visitor services.
You can drive to various points along the St. Lawrence River, like Landon Bay or Mallorytown Landing, to access hiking trails. However, to see the islands themselves, a boat tour is essential.
Yes, a Parks Canada Discovery Pass is required for entry into Thousand Islands National Park. You can purchase these online or at park visitor centres.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Cruise prices vary, typically ranging from $34 to $39 for adults for 1-2 hour tours. Longer tours with stops like Boldt Castle will be more expensive.
It's highly recommended to book your boat tour in advance, especially during peak season, to guarantee your spot and preferred time.
The park's natural areas are generally accessible year-round, but visitor centres and specific facilities have seasonal operating hours. Boat tours also operate on a seasonal schedule.
No, Boldt Castle is located on an island and is only accessible via boat tour. Ensure your chosen tour includes a stop there if you wish to visit.
Check with individual tour operators for potential discounts. Parks Canada offers free admission for youth under 18.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Landon Bay Lookout Trail for stunning views, and trails within Mallorytown Landing and Jones Creek for a more immersive nature experience.
Yes, Parks Canada offers camping facilities within the park, providing an opportunity to stay overnight amidst the natural beauty.
The park is home to diverse wildlife, including various bird species, deer, and aquatic life. Keep an eye out during your hikes and boat tours.
Absolutely! Kids often enjoy boat rides, spotting wildlife, and exploring the park's natural areas. Some tours may offer family-friendly commentary.
Dress in layers as the temperature can change on the water. Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to disembark or hike.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options are limited within the park itself. Gateway towns like Gananoque offer a variety of cafes and restaurants. Some boat tours may include meal options.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks for picnics in designated areas or to enjoy on your boat tour.
Gananoque has several charming eateries. La Verenne Eatery is mentioned for its tasty treats and perfect lattes, and there are various shops to explore.
Some longer boat tours, especially those with a Boldt Castle stopover, may offer lunch or dining packages. Check with the tour operator when booking.
You'll find a range of options from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants, often featuring local Canadian cuisine and fresh ingredients.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunities are from the water during a boat cruise, offering unique perspectives of the islands. Landon Bay Lookout also provides stunning panoramic shots.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for capturing the islands and river. Midday can be harsh but still offers clear views.
Yes, most boat tours allow and encourage photography. Ensure your camera is protected from any spray, especially on open decks.
Generally, photography is permitted for personal use. Be mindful of private property on inhabited islands and any specific rules at attractions like Boldt Castle.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive river and island landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting wildlife or details on distant islands.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Islands: Boat Tours vs. Land
For those who prefer to stay on land, the park offers a network of hiking trails across its mainland sections. Areas like Mallorytown Landing, Jones Creek, and Landon Bay provide opportunities to immerse yourself in the natural beauty, with trails ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. The Landon Bay Lookout Trail is particularly recommended for its rewarding panoramic vistas of the river and islands. While land-based exploration offers a different perspective, it's the unique island formations and the vastness of the St. Lawrence River that truly define the Thousand Islands experience.
A Glimpse into History and Nature
Beyond its human history, the park is a haven for natural biodiversity. The islands and the St. Lawrence River support a variety of wildlife, including numerous bird species and aquatic life. Visitors often report spotting local wildlife during their excursions, adding an element of discovery to the trip. The park's designation as a national park underscores its importance in preserving this unique ecosystem for future generations.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit