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Thousand Islands Parkway

4.6
·491k reviews·, Canada

A 10 km scenic drive winding through 11 islands along the St. Lawrence River, perfect for leisurely drives and cycling.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring Mornings

Road opens, nature awakens

CrowdLow
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Thousand Islands Parkway - Image 1

Thousand Islands Parkway

Best Time

Spring Mornings

Road opens, nature awakens

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 10 km scenic drive winding through 11 islands along the St. Lawrence River, perfect for leisurely drives and cycling.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Skip the highway and take the Thousand Islands Parkway for stunning river and island views!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Take the Scenic Route

Opt for the Parkway over the highway for unparalleled river and island views.

🚴‍♀️ Bike the Trail

The dedicated trail is perfect for a leisurely cycling adventure.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scenic Drive

Scenic Drive

A 10 km route winding through 11 islands, offering breathtaking river and island vistas.

Instagram
Landon Bay Lookout

Landon Bay Lookout

Thousand Islands Parkway

A lesser-known spot with incredible views of the St. Lawrence River, especially beautiful in autumn.

Instagram
Cycling the Parkway

Cycling the Parkway

Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the dedicated trail, taking in the fresh air and picturesque surroundings.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Best Time to Drive the Parkway

The Thousand Islands Parkway is a seasonal road, typically opening in mid-April and closing in late October. For the most vibrant foliage, aim for autumn. Summer offers lush greenery and warmer weather for activities like biking and picnicking. Instagram

Embrace the Scenic Route

Skip the highway and opt for the Thousand Islands Parkway for stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and its many islands. It's perfect for a leisurely drive, cycling, or a stop at various lookouts and day-use areas. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Spring Mornings
Why
Road opens, nature awakens
Crowd
Low
When
Summer Afternoons
Why
Perfect for biking & picnics
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn Evenings
Why
Stunning fall foliage
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📣 Mark your calendars! The Long Sault Parkway opens Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at 9 a.m. Kick off spring with one of Ontario’s most scenic drives! Stretching 10 km across 11 islands, the Parkway is packed with hidden gems like campgrounds, beaches + day use areas, and trails - perfect for hiking, biking, fishing, diving or just soaking in the views. But there’s more! Did you know this area was once...
stlawrenceparks
974 likes • 55.1K views

🚗 Take the Scenic Route

Opt for the Parkway over the highway for unparalleled river and island views. Instagram+1

🚴‍♀️ Bike the Trail

The dedicated trail is perfect for a leisurely cycling adventure. Instagram

Looking for a trail this weekend? Take a little road trip and visit #DonevanTrail in the #ThousandIslands ♥️ Beautiful hike in a fantastic part of #Ontario. Take the Thousand Islands Parkway for a beautiful scenic drive! 🥰 Happy weekend! #hike #hikinglife #hikingadventures #hikingtrails #hiking #hiker #hikersofinstagram #trail #trailsnextdoor #ontario #pov #blackdiamond #outdoorinspo #fall #aut...
trails.next.door
13 likes • 1.2K views
🇨🇦 Guide: 10-Day Canada Road Trip Itinerary Cities, nature, hidden gems — all in one loop. Day 1 – Picton • Thousand Islands Parkway • Prince Edward County Lavender Farm • Sandbanks Provincial Park • Gananoque and Lakeshore Beach • The Lakeside Beach Bar Day 2 – Montreal One night in the city. Walk Old Port. Eat. Explore. Day 3 – Ottawa Tour the capital. Optional: scenic drive via Renfrew and B...
julianeves3
0 likes • 817 views

📸 Stop at Lookouts

Pull over at various points for stunning photo opportunities of the St. Lawrence River. Instagram

📅 Check Seasonal Dates

The Parkway is seasonal, typically open from mid-April to late October. Instagram

A rare Thousand Islands bungalow with over 2 acres of privacy and 2,400 sq. ft. of main-floor living. Welcome to 61 Conner Drive. Set just off the Thousand Islands Parkway, this stone-exterior bungalow offers 3 bedrooms + den, 2.5 baths, and a bright, vaulted living room with a propane fireplace and oversized windows that overlook the property. The main floor offers everything families love: • ...
lisarobichaudrealtor
42 likes • 1.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Take the Scenic Route

Opt for the Parkway over the highway for unparalleled river and island views. Instagram+1

🚴‍♀️ Bike the Trail

The dedicated trail is perfect for a leisurely cycling adventure. Instagram

📸 Stop at Lookouts

Pull over at various points for stunning photo opportunities of the St. Lawrence River. Instagram

📅 Check Seasonal Dates

The Parkway is seasonal, typically open from mid-April to late October. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Thousand Islands Parkway for its breathtaking scenic beauty and leisurely pace, offering a delightful alternative to highway travel. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing drive, cycling, or a picnic with stunning river views. Some find the seasonal nature a limitation, wishing it were open longer.

What People Like

Stunning river views
Scenic drive alternative
Great for cycling

What People Dislike

Seasonal closure

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Thousand Islands Parkway is accessible from Highway 401 in Ontario, Canada. It's a scenic alternative to the main highway, offering a more immersive experience of the Thousand Islands region. Instagram

No, the Parkway is a seasonal road. It typically opens in mid-April and closes in late October. Always check the official St. Lawrence Parks Commission website for exact dates. Instagram

Yes, the Parkway is suitable for most vehicles, including RVs. Its winding nature and numerous pull-offs make it enjoyable for all types of travelers. Instagram

The Parkway is conveniently located between Toronto and Montreal, with Brockville and Gananoque being the closest significant towns. InstagramReddit

Yes, you can find detailed maps online, often provided by St. Lawrence Parks Commission, showing the route, points of interest, and trail access. Searching 'Thousand Islands Parkway map' will yield several options. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, there is no admission fee to drive the Thousand Islands Parkway itself. However, day-use areas, campgrounds, and specific attractions along the route may have separate fees. Instagram

There are no tolls or entrance gates directly on the Thousand Islands Parkway. Access is open during its operating season. Instagram

The Parkway is typically open from dawn until dusk during its seasonal operation. Specific hours for day-use areas may vary. Instagram

While the Parkway offers views of the islands where Boldt Castle is located, direct access requires a boat tour or ferry from nearby towns like Gananoque or Alexandria Bay, NY. A passport is needed if departing from the Canadian side. Instagram

If you plan to visit provincial parks like Sandbanks (nearby) or utilize specific day-use areas with amenities, a park permit might be required. Check with St. Lawrence Parks Commission for details. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy scenic drives, cycling, hiking on trails like the Donevan Trail, picnicking at day-use areas, fishing, and photography. Boat tours are also a popular way to see the islands up close. Instagram+1

Yes, the Parkway features several day-use areas with picnic tables and scenic spots perfect for a leisurely break. Instagram

The Donevan Trail is a popular choice for hiking, offering beautiful scenery. Other smaller trails and lookouts are also accessible directly from the Parkway. Instagram+1

Absolutely! Renting a kayak or canoe allows you to paddle among the islands for a unique perspective. Access points are available in various locations. Instagram

You might spot various bird species, including waterfowl, and potentially other small mammals along the riverbanks and wooded areas. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The entire Parkway is a photographer's dream, with numerous lookouts offering stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and its countless islands. Landon Bay Lookout is particularly recommended for its panoramic vistas. Instagram+1

Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the beauty of the islands and the river. Golden hour light can create magical scenes. Instagram

Beyond Landon Bay Lookout, many unmarked pull-offs provide unique angles. Keep an eye out for areas with clearings that offer unobstructed views of the water and islands. Instagram

Landscape photography is ideal, capturing the vastness of the river, the intricate patterns of the islands, and the changing seasons. Wildlife photography is also possible. Instagram

Yes, the Parkway provides excellent vantage points to photograph the many islands dotting the St. Lawrence River. Some islands are privately owned, so respect property boundaries. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Thousand Islands Parkway is a fantastic destination for families. The seasonal road is perfect for a leisurely drive with plenty of pull-off spots for kids to stretch their legs and enjoy the views. The dedicated bike path is ideal for family cycling adventures, offering a safe environment away from traffic. Instagram+1

Several day-use areas along the Parkway are equipped with picnic tables, making it easy to enjoy a family lunch amidst nature. These spots are also great for letting children explore safely. Consider packing a frisbee or ball for some outdoor fun. While Boldt Castle requires a boat trip and passport, the general experience of seeing the islands from the Parkway is captivating for all ages. Instagram

🚴‍♀️ Cyclists and Outdoor Enthusiasts

For cyclists, the Thousand Islands Parkway is a must-visit. The paved, dedicated cycling trail stretches for 10 km, offering a smooth and scenic ride with constant views of the St. Lawrence River and its islands. It's a relatively flat route, making it accessible for various fitness levels. Instagram

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities for hiking, with trails like the Donevan Trail accessible from the Parkway. Kayaking and canoeing are also highly recommended for those who want to explore the waterways up close. The area is also popular for fishing. Remember to check the Parkway's seasonal operating dates before planning your trip. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Cycling the Thousand Islands Parkway

The Thousand Islands Parkway offers a fantastic experience for cyclists, with a dedicated paved trail running alongside the scenic drive. This path makes it safe and enjoyable for riders of all skill levels to explore the 10 km route. You can easily rent bikes in nearby towns or bring your own to embark on this leisurely adventure. Instagram

As you cycle, you'll pass by numerous islands and enjoy constant views of the St. Lawrence River. The trail is relatively flat, making it accessible for families and casual riders. Remember to bring water and snacks, and take advantage of the various day-use areas for breaks and picnics. The Parkway is particularly beautiful during the spring and fall, offering a chance to see the landscape in bloom or adorned with autumn colors. Instagram+1

For those looking for a longer cycling trip, the Parkway can be integrated into a larger itinerary. It connects to other local cycling routes, allowing you to extend your journey through the Thousand Islands region. Always check the seasonal opening and closing dates for the Parkway to ensure it's accessible for your cycling plans. Instagram

Exploring the Islands and Waterways

The essence of the Thousand Islands Parkway lies in its proximity to the St. Lawrence River and its iconic islands. While the Parkway itself offers stunning views from land, getting out on the water provides a truly immersive experience. Boat tours are a popular option, departing from nearby towns like Gananoque and Brockville, offering guided excursions that showcase the beauty of the archipelago and famous landmarks like Boldt Castle. Instagram

For a more intimate encounter with the waterways, consider renting a kayak or canoe. This allows you to paddle at your own pace, exploring hidden coves and getting up close to the smaller, uninhabited islands. Many launch points are available along the Parkway and in surrounding areas, providing access to calm waters ideal for paddling. Remember to check weather conditions and wear a life jacket for safety. Instagram

Fishing is another popular activity in the Thousand Islands region. The St. Lawrence River is known for its diverse fish population, making it a prime spot for anglers. Whether you're casting a line from the shore, a boat, or a kayak, the scenic backdrop enhances the fishing experience. Always ensure you have the necessary fishing licenses and are aware of local regulations. Instagram

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