An island escape connected by a winding, scenic highway may just be the perfect road trip to add to your spring bucket list.
The Long Sault Parkway is a hidden gem located along the picturesque St. Lawrence River near Cornwall, Ontario, that offers breathtaking views, outdoor adventures, and a fascinating piece of Ontario’s history.
Spanning over 10 kilometres in length, this unique route strings together 11 distinct islands, which were created when the St. Lawrence Seaway was built in the 1950s. Now officially open for the 2026 season, it is a stunning destination for anyone looking to trade the city skyline for sandy beaches, breezy picnic areas, and winding nature trails.
The area’s calm waters are also ideal for a mix of water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and swimming, while anglers will find plenty of great fishing spots right off the shoreline.
What many people don’t realize is that the parkway actually sits atop what was once a series of local communities, collectively known as the “Lost Villages.” When the Seaway was built to allow large ships to pass between Montreal and Lake Ontario, several historic towns were deliberately flooded to build the Moses-Saunders Power Dam, leaving behind only the highest points of land to form the islands we see today.
Interpretive signs along the route share more about this piece of Ontario’s history, and the nearby Lost Villages Museum in Ault Park offers an even deeper dive for history buffs to explore, complete with artifacts, old photographs, and beautifully restored heritage buildings.
The Long Sault Parkway officially kicked off its 2026 season on April 17 and will remain open to vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians until mid-November. While the popular Mille Roches beach and campground are closed this year for some major modern upgrades, there are plenty of alternative spots nearby to explore, including the gorgeous Woodlands Beach and McLaren Campground.
Day-use permits are required for the beach and picnic areas, which can be purchased directly at the campground registration buildings. Overnight camping reservations are also open if you’d like to sleep under the stars — just be sure to book your spot in advance on the Parks of the St. Lawrence website, as these waterfront locations fill up fast!
