Ultimate Guide to Visiting and Hiking Rock Dunder

Rock Dunder is a hiking trail with a fantastic rock cliff overlooking the Rideau River. It is a perfectly Instagrammable spot. The trail is within the UNESCO Thousand Islands Frontenac Arch Biosphere Reserve and boasts a 275 feet high lookout.

Rock Dunder Information

How do you get there? About a 1.5 hour drive from Ottawa in Lyndhurst, Ontario, this hiking trail is just off Highway 15. There is a small parking lot along Stanley Lash Lane. You’ll have to register, sign a waiver and pay a small fee.

How much does it cost? The costs seem the vary based on season/year/day of the week. Prices range from $5-$10 per person, and seasons passes are available. Check their website before you go, but they do accept cash and credit!

When’s the Best Time of Year to Go? The trail is not maintained in the winter and is officially open between May and November. Head during early summer for a less busy trail or during the fall for fantastic fall foliage! It does get quite busy! Plan to visit early mornings on the weekend, or after lunch or during the week to avoid crowds.

How long is the trail? Rock Dunder is a wilderness area (230 acres) with 3 trails: the Cabin Trail, the Morton Bay Loop, and the Summit Loop. The Morton Bay Loop is 2 km through mixed forest with has two moderately steep sections to and from a small peninsular outlook over Morton Bay. The Summit Loop is a 3.9 km loop alongside Dean’s Island through the forest with a panoramic view of the Rideau Waterway (the iconic Rock Dunder view above). The Cabin Trail is a short in/out along the Morton Bay Loop.

Looking for more day trip inspiration? Visit Cornwall, Gatineau Park/Chelsea, Parc Omega. Plan a trip through Kawartha Lakes to complete the Butter Tart Tour!