
Thousand Islands Parkway
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
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Road opens, nature awakens

Thousand Islands Parkway
Best Time
Road opens, nature awakens
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 10 km scenic drive winding through 11 islands along the St. Lawrence River, perfect for leisurely drives and cycling.
"Skip the highway and take the Thousand Islands Parkway for stunning river and island views!"

🚗 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Landon Bay Lookout
Thousand Islands Parkway
A lesser-known spot with incredible views of the St. Lawrence River, especially beautiful in autumn.

Cycling the Parkway
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the dedicated trail, taking in the fresh air and picturesque surroundings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Drive the Parkway
Embrace the Scenic Route
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 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.
📸 Stop at Lookouts
Pull over at various points for stunning photo opportunities of the St. Lawrence River.
📅 Check Seasonal Dates
The Parkway is seasonal, typically open from mid-April to late October.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 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.
📸 Stop at Lookouts
Pull over at various points for stunning photo opportunities of the St. Lawrence River.
📅 Check Seasonal Dates
The Parkway is seasonal, typically open from mid-April to late October.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
The Parkway is conveniently located between Toronto and Montreal, with Brockville and Gananoque being the closest significant towns.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
There are no tolls or entrance gates directly on the Thousand Islands Parkway. Access is open during its operating season.
The Parkway is typically open from dawn until dusk during its seasonal operation. Specific hours for day-use areas may vary.
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.
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.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
Yes, the Parkway features several day-use areas with picnic tables and scenic spots perfect for a leisurely break.
The Donevan Trail is a popular choice for hiking, offering beautiful scenery. Other smaller trails and lookouts are also accessible directly from the Parkway.
Absolutely! Renting a kayak or canoe allows you to paddle among the islands for a unique perspective. Access points are available in various locations.
You might spot various bird species, including waterfowl, and potentially other small mammals along the riverbanks and wooded areas.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🚴♀️ Cyclists and Outdoor Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cycling the Thousand Islands Parkway
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.
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.
Exploring the Islands and Waterways
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.
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.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit