Petroglyphs Provincial Park Ontario
Discover ancient Indigenous petroglyphs and a rare, color-shifting meromictic lake in Ontario's natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Petroglyphs Provincial Park Ontario
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient Indigenous petroglyphs and a rare, color-shifting meromictic lake in Ontario's natural beauty.
"It's not your typical provincial park, but it's still amazing."
🎯 Get your permit first!
Head to the visitor center for your permit before exploring. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable! :admission_tickets:
👟 Comfortable shoes are a must
Trails are generally easy, but good walking shoes will make your exploration more enjoyable.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Indigenous Petroglyphs
Sacred Site Building
Witness thousands of years of history etched into stone, depicting spiritual beliefs and ancient life.
McGinnis Lake's Emerald Hues
McGinnis Lake
Marvel at this rare meromictic lake, whose distinct water layers create mesmerizing turquoise and emerald colors.
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Nanabush Trail
Various trails
An accessible and peaceful walk featuring boardwalks, marshes, and serene lakes, perfect for nature lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Petroglyphs
Permits and Park Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Get your permit first!
Head to the visitor center for your permit before exploring. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable! :admission_tickets:
👟 Comfortable shoes are a must
Trails are generally easy, but good walking shoes will make your exploration more enjoyable.
🦟 Bug spray is essential
Especially during warmer months, be prepared for insects on the trails.
📸 No photos of petroglyphs
Photography is not allowed inside the sacred site building to protect the carvings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Get your permit first!
Head to the visitor center for your permit before exploring. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable! :admission_tickets:
👟 Comfortable shoes are a must
Trails are generally easy, but good walking shoes will make your exploration more enjoyable.
🦟 Bug spray is essential
Especially during warmer months, be prepared for insects on the trails.
📸 No photos of petroglyphs
Photography is not allowed inside the sacred site building to protect the carvings.
💧 Pack water and snacks
While there are picnic spots, bringing your own refreshments is a good idea.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Petroglyphs Provincial Park for its unique historical significance and the stunning beauty of McGinnis Lake. The ancient petroglyphs offer a profound connection to Indigenous heritage, and the lake's vibrant colors are a major draw. While some find the park hours limited and the initial arrival slightly confusing, the friendly staff and educational exhibits make it a highly recommended destination, especially for families.
"Great place to visit. The route from north Whitby to this place was awesome. En route, there were many spots worth stopping to appreciate fall colors. Petroglyphs were fantastic. Somehow, it connects you to the people who lived 6000 ago. The lake was very beautiful. Loved it."
Sajid Munir
"We've been meaning to xone here for quite a while. Quite frankly, it was not what I had expected. The park's hours are short, so make sure to check the opening and closing times. I would highly recommend this for everyone, especially kids. The museum has a very nice exhibition and the building where the petroglyphs are is bright and airy. There are also a couple of hike trails but be sure to spray yourself heavily. There is a beautiful little lake worth seeing. It's so reminiscent of a Group of 7 paintings."
Mary Chatz
"It's not your typical provincial park, but it's still amazing. Somewhat confusing apon arriving. After finding the parking lot you need to head to the visitors center to get your permit. The staff were extremely friendly. They have an amazing park store, with lots of park merch, stuffed animals and gifts. They have an exhibit that takes up most of the center, very interesting. The glyphs are located in a separate building a very short walk from the visitors center. They were amazing to see. If your there also check out mcginnis lake. It's absolutely gorgeous a very short walk from the parking lot."
Brent
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Petroglyphs Provincial Park is about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive northeast of Toronto. Take ON-401 E to ON-35 N/ON-115 N, then follow ON-7 E towards Peterborough. Continue on ON-7 E and then take ON-134 N to Northey's Bay Road, which leads to the park.
Public transportation options to Petroglyphs Provincial Park are very limited. It is best accessed by car. Consider carpooling if you are traveling from nearby cities.
The park is located at 2249 Northey's Bay Rd, Woodview, ON K0L 2N0. Ensure you have GPS or a map as some roads can be less clearly marked.
The closest town is Lakefield, and Peterborough is a larger city nearby, offering more amenities and services if needed.
The drive from North Whitby towards the park offers beautiful spots to appreciate fall colors, making it a scenic route, especially during autumn.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you need to obtain a permit from the visitor center upon arrival. There is an entrance fee, and it's recommended to check the official Ontario Parks website for current pricing.
The park has specific operating hours, which can vary seasonally. It's crucial to check the official Ontario Parks website for the most up-to-date opening and closing times before your visit.
While some Ontario Parks allow advance booking, it's best to confirm directly with Petroglyphs Provincial Park or the Ontario Parks system. Typically, permits are obtained upon arrival at the visitor center.
The admission fee is for the park entry, which includes access to the visitor center, trails, McGinnis Lake, and the building housing the petroglyphs.
Information on discounts, such as for seniors or children, is usually available on the Ontario Parks website or can be inquired about at the visitor center.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the ancient Indigenous petroglyphs, admire the unique McGinnis Lake, hike on various trails like the Nanabush Trail, and visit the visitor center with its exhibits. +1
Swimming is generally not permitted in McGinnis Lake to preserve its unique meromictic properties. The focus is on viewing its beauty.
Many trails, like the Nanabush Trail, are beginner and family-friendly. Some areas may have slight elevation changes, but overall, they are considered accessible.
Absolutely! Families love the educational aspect of the petroglyphs, the beautiful lake, and the easy-to-navigate trails. The visitor center is also engaging for kids.
A meromictic lake is a rare type of lake where the water layers do not mix. This unique characteristic is what gives McGinnis Lake its distinct, mesmerizing colors.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the building where the petroglyphs are displayed to protect this sacred Indigenous heritage.
McGinnis Lake offers stunning photographic opportunities with its unique colors. The surrounding natural landscapes and trails also provide beautiful scenery.
Drone usage is typically restricted in provincial parks to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors and to protect wildlife. Check Ontario Parks regulations for specifics.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for capturing the lake and landscapes. For the petroglyphs, remember that photos are not permitted.
Natural light is abundant, especially around McGinnis Lake. Mid-morning to late afternoon often provides the best light for capturing the lake's vibrant colors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
McGinnis Lake's vibrant colors are sure to captivate kids, and the park provides picnic areas for a family lunch. Remember to pack plenty of snacks, water, and bug spray to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable day out.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Exploring the peaceful trails at your own pace allows for a deep appreciation of the natural surroundings. Consider visiting on a weekday to enjoy the park's tranquility with fewer crowds.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts
+1 The park's diverse trails, including the Nanabush Trail, showcase varied landscapes from marshes to forests, providing ample opportunities for birdwatching and appreciating local flora. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Petroglyphs
It's important to note that photography is not permitted within the building that houses the petroglyphs. This rule is in place to protect these invaluable cultural artifacts and to maintain the sacredness of the site. Visitors are encouraged to absorb the experience visually and learn from the interpretive displays in the visitor center.
Park staff are often knowledgeable and can share information about the meanings behind the carvings, enhancing the visitor's understanding and appreciation of this unique heritage.
McGinnis Lake: A Natural Wonder
+1The lack of mixing is also what gives McGinnis Lake its breathtaking, otherworldly colors, shifting between mesmerizing turquoise and emerald hues. The visual spectacle is a major draw for visitors, offering a serene and beautiful landscape that feels almost surreal.
+2While the lake is stunning to behold, swimming is generally not permitted to preserve its delicate ecosystem. The park encourages visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty from the designated viewing areas and nearby trails, such as the Nanabush Trail, which offers lovely perspectives of the lake and its surroundings.
Exploring the Trails
Other trails, like the one leading to McGinnis Lake, are short and easy, making them perfect for families and casual walkers. While most paths are gentle, some areas might have minor elevation changes, so wearing comfortable footwear is advised.
Remember to be prepared for the elements, especially during warmer months. Bringing insect repellent is highly recommended, as mosquitoes and other biting insects can be present on the trails.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit