In the heart of the picturesque St. Lawrence River, Thousand Islands National Park lies as a testament to Canada's natural beauty and historical significance. Established in 1904, this national park holds the distinction of being the first park in Canada to the east of the Rocky Mountains. Thousand Islands National Park owes its remarkable landscapes to a fascinating geological past. Over 10,000 years ago, as the last ice age came to an end, a flooded ancient mountain range gave rise to the collection of islands that we see today. This natural phenomenon resulted in a diverse array of landforms, creating an environment that has captivated generations with its beauty and intrigue.
Dos:
Begin your day at the Visitor Center: Before setting out on your island-hopping adventure, a visit to the park's visitor center is highly recommended. Here, you can pick up a map of the islands, gain insights into the park's history and ecology, and receive valuable tips from knowledgeable staff. The visitor center is located within a 45 minutes drive from the town of Kingston.
Vist the many Castles and Mansions. The Thousand Islands are not just an assortment of landmasses; they're vessels of history. Within their midst stand elegant castles and privately owned mansions, offering a glimpse into a bygone era. One of the most famous castles, Boldt Castle, is still standing in all of its 1900s glory. A famous proprietor set out to build the full size Rhineland castle on Heart Island for his wife. Although tragedy struck before the castle was ever fully completed and it sat empty for 77 years until the park decided to maintain it for all to see the grandiose structure.
Camp at a Canadian Lock: For those seeking an off the beaten path adventure, a campsite by a lock awaits. A lock is a dam-like structure used to allow boats to pass by raising and lowering the water between two bodies of water. Unlike true dispersed camping, this option offers not just a place to rest, but a unique experience for a simple $5CAD a person. Just a short drive from the park, this lockside spot captivates with its unique charm and the promise of new discoveries. Find it here: 3. 44.40681° N, 76.32255° W
Explore the local waterside shops: When you drive from Kingston make sure to stop along the way at the numerous waterside towns to find unique waterside shops. These type of stores are the perfect place to let the locals regale you with tales of the area. As you savor local honey, feel the connection to the land and its people deepen. The best way to explore a destination is through the eyes of those who call it home.
Visit the infamous Thousand Islands tower: Once the tallest freestanding tower globally, it still reigns as a beacon of exploration. From its summit, a panoramic view unfolds – the USA and Canada bridged by the Thousand Islands themselves. Allow your gaze to linger on the breathtaking blend of nature and human creation.
Sign up for a boat tour: As you gaze upon the islands, one truth becomes clear: a boat is your gateway to their secrets. A boat tour is not just a means of transportation; it's an immersion into the heart of the islands. Without it, you're merely an observer; with it, you become an explorer, as there is only so long you can admire the view from the shore.
Don'ts:
Litter Waterways: If you're boating or participating in water activities, make sure not to litter in the water. Plastic and trash can harm aquatic life.
Forget some kind of flotation device: odds are you will not get far in this park without a way onto the water. Whether it is a paddle board, boat or whatever you come up with it is highly essential to maximize the time spent at the park and see the real history.
Thousand Islands National Park is more than meets the eye and has never ending islands to uncover. With each island, each castle, and each sweeping vista, you're invited to delve into a world that has been shaped by millennia of history.
Onto the next sky!
Коментари