Perfect for hikers and cyclists of all abilities, Cornwall’s Waterfront Trail is a dedicated multi-use trail spans the city’s entire waterfront, offering stunning views of the Cornwall Canal and the St Lawrence River. It connects to a number of attractions including Lamoureux Park and the Saunders Hydro Dam, a must-see. It is perfect for hikers and cyclists of all levels. Drop by the Cornwall Visitor Centre located at the Cornwall Civic Complex – 100 Water Street East where staff will answer any questions and help you plan your visit.
As you approach Cornwall at the western boundary, the Trail turns south at Powerdam Rd and takes you along the remains of the historic Cornwall Canal. In 2014 Cornwall’s waterfront changed dramatically as a demolition of the aging high-level bridge to the USA began. The high-level bridge was a Cornwall icon for decades, designed to accommodate ships part of the St. Lawrence Seaway project in the 1960s. One of the remaining concrete supports from the old Seaway International Bridge stands as a legacy landmark. A viewing deck was built underneath with a historic plaque, painted by Pierre Giroux of Cornwall. The bridge and its story are part of a collection of 26 heritage plaques marking historical milestones in the City.
East of Cornwall, a short detour will take you to Gray’s Creek Conservation Area where you’ll find 5km of meandering trails through natural landscape.
Bike rentals are now available at Marina 200 along Cornwall’s waterfront (just east of the Civic Complex)! Bikes can be reserved by calling the marina at 613-932-8301. Public parking is available in the Complex parking lot overlooking the marina.
A tribute to decades of vision and community commitment , the Trail follows the course of the St. Lawrence River, passes under a cooling forest canopy, and shares the fascinating stories of times and people past. Cornwall has one of the most picturesque and fascinating sections of the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail. It has everything cyclists are looking for—non-stop riverfront views, natural scenery, a fascinating history, great places to stop for a bite and drink. For families looking for a fun trail experience Cornwall’s dedicated off-road Waterfront Trail is the perfect destination.
Trail Attributes
Dedicated off-road trail through Cornwall great for cyclists and hikers.
Heritage murals and a new plaque describing the history and heritage of the Mohawks of Akwesasne
Very family-friendly
Trail east of Gray’s Creek Conservation Area in South Glengarry follows Hwy 2 (paved shoulder)
International Border Crossing connects Cornwall, Ontario, Akwesasne First Nation and Massena, New York–Seaway International Bridge(Three Nations Bridge)–suitable for pedestrians and cyclists
Cornwall waterfront path–includes washroom locations and points of interest.
Cornwall’s recreational path and cycling network
Looking for a looped ride? Click the map below for 9 suggestions, many using the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail.
Approximately a 5hr drive east of Toronto, Cornwall and SDG have created 19 cycle routes (loop and out and back) to showcase the region’s culinary specialties, craft alcohol, heritage and landscape. Ranging from 10 to 72 km, Routes 2, 4, 8, 10, 11, 13, 14, 15 and 17 use the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail. Download Ride with GPS routes or the pdf map guide.
Staging Areas
- Guindon Park–500 acres natural park with picinic areas, hiking trails and children’s play structure and washrooms on Highway #2, west of Power Dam Drive. The also has 12 km of cross-country ski trails.
- 2 Parking lots on 2nd St. just east and west of Promenade Saunders
- Lamoureux Park–signature park that runs the full length of the shoreline with many attractions along the way.
Amenities
Transit
VIA Rail – National Passenger Rail service.
Bike racks are available on all trains equipped with baggage cars. www.viarail.ca
Bike racks are available on all trains equipped with baggage cars. www.viarail.ca
Helpful Links
Cornwall Tourism-accommodations, what to see and do.
Southeastern Ontario-regional tourism site serving highlighting waterfront from Trenton to Quebec.
St. Lawrence Parks Commission–The Parks of the St. Lawrence operates eight campgrounds, along with six day-use areas along the St Lawrence River in Eastern Ontario. Extending 200 kms from Kingston to near the Quebec border the Parks facilities include thousands of hectares of park land and attractions on the St. Lawrence Heritage Corridor and include the Waterfront Trail.
Raisin River Conservation Authority-manages campsites and parks along the waterfront.
Ontario By Bike – Cycle Friendly Businesses and Trip Ideas
Protecting. Connecting. Celebrating. The Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River.
The Waterfront Regeneration Trust is a registered charity. Charitable Registration Number: 86767 9821 RR0001
