Lake on the Mountain Provincial Park Picton Ontario
A high-altitude lake with no visible source, offering stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Quinte. A unique natural wonder.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene views, fewer crowds
Lake on the Mountain Provincial Park Picton Ontario
Best Time
Serene views, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A high-altitude lake with no visible source, offering stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Quinte. A unique natural wonder.
"Truly unique and magical spot with absolutely stunning views, a must-visit in Prince Edward County!"
Pack a Picnic Basket 🍕
Enjoy a meal with a view! Many visitors recommend bringing your own food to savor the scenery.
Capture the Vista 📷
The lookout offers incredible photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Mysterious Lake
Lake on the Mountain
A unique, high-altitude lake with no visible source, offering stunning, clear waters and a sense of wonder.
Panoramic Bay of Quinte Views
Lookout Point
Breathtaking vistas of the Bay of Quinte, perfect for photography and soaking in the expansive scenery.

Picnic Paradise
Designated Picnic Areas
Ideal spots for a leisurely picnic amidst beautiful natural surroundings, with tables and grassy areas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Park Amenities & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack a Picnic Basket 🍕
Enjoy a meal with a view! Many visitors recommend bringing your own food to savor the scenery.
Capture the Vista 📷
The lookout offers incredible photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Seasonal Access 🍃
The park is open seasonally, typically from late spring to early fall. Check operating dates before visiting.
Ferry Ride Option 🚤
Consider taking the free ferry across the Bay of Quinte for a unique perspective and to explore the other side.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack a Picnic Basket 🍕
Enjoy a meal with a view! Many visitors recommend bringing your own food to savor the scenery.
Capture the Vista 📷
The lookout offers incredible photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Seasonal Access 🍃
The park is open seasonally, typically from late spring to early fall. Check operating dates before visiting.
Ferry Ride Option 🚤
Consider taking the free ferry across the Bay of Quinte for a unique perspective and to explore the other side.
Easy Access 🚗
A perfect stop for a scenic break while driving through Prince Edward County.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning, unique views of the high-altitude lake and the Bay of Quinte, calling it a magical and must-visit spot in Prince Edward County. Many appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and excellent picnic opportunities, though some note it's more of a lookout than a traditional park with extensive trails.
"What a great park to visit? We really did not plan to go there, but luckily, we ended up at the park while driving around. It was in December 2024, and the weather was excellent. Even though it was very cold, not having snow and bright sunlight made the view of the lake incredible. We saw the ferry to cross the lake but unfortunately we could not do it. I recommend that if you go to the park, it makes us experience the ferry ride as well."
Chula Rodrigo
"We always rode down to this amazing place every year. It's so scenic and nice view! One of our favourite rides on our motorcycle. So cool to reach the ferry, load in, cross, and continue on the other side and free as well."
Cameron Lisk
"Lake on the Mountain is a truly unique and magical spot in Prince Edward County! The views are absolutely stunning, with the mysterious lake perched high above the Bay of Quinte, offering a perfect backdrop for a peaceful day out. The lake itself is beautiful, surrounded by lush greenery, and it's fascinating to think about how it formed and how it sits so high up with no apparent source. There are great picnic areas, and the nearby lookout offers panoramic views that are perfect for photos. Whether you're here for a hike, a leisurely stroll, or just to take in the serene surroundings, Lake on the Mountain is a must-visit destination. It's a hidden gem that's perfect for nature lovers and anyone looking for a unique experience in Ontario!"
Mehrzad Mehrvarz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake on the Mountain Provincial Park is located in Prince Edward County, Ontario. It's easily accessible by car, often visited as part of a scenic drive through the county. Many visitors find it a convenient stop while exploring the region.
Public transportation options directly to the park are limited. It's best accessed by private vehicle. Consider carpooling or ride-sharing if you don't have your own transport.
While there isn't a ferry directly to the park itself, there is a free ferry service across the Bay of Quinte nearby. This can be a scenic way to travel and access areas on the other side of the bay.
From Toronto, take the ON-401 East towards Kingston. Take exit 522 for County Road 1 for Prince Edward County. Follow County Road 1 South, which will lead you towards Lake on the Mountain. The drive is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.
Yes, there is a parking lot available. Some reviews suggest there might be a small fee or a QR code for payment, so be prepared for that possibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lake on the Mountain Provincial Park is generally free to enter and explore, though parking may have a fee. It's more of a scenic viewpoint and picnic area than a ticketed attraction.
The park is typically open seasonally, usually from late spring through early fall. It's best to check the official Ontario Parks website for exact opening and closing dates for the current year.
There is no admission fee to enter the park itself. However, parking may incur a charge, so it's advisable to have some cash or be ready to pay via a QR code if available.
While the park is seasonal, the scenic views are often accessible year-round, weather permitting. However, amenities like washrooms might be closed, and road conditions can vary in winter.
There are no regular guided tours or special events typically advertised for Lake on the Mountain Provincial Park. It's primarily a self-guided natural attraction.
🎫 compass Onsite Experience
The main activities include enjoying the stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Quinte, having a picnic in the designated areas, and marveling at the unique, high-altitude lake with no visible source. There's also a small trail for a leisurely stroll.
While there's a small trail, it's not a destination for extensive hiking. It's more suited for short walks and enjoying the scenery. For serious hiking, consider other provincial parks.
Yes, public washrooms are usually available during the operating season. They are basic facilities, so keep that in mind.
Swimming is generally not recommended or permitted in Lake on the Mountain due to its unique ecosystem and lack of visible source. It's best enjoyed for its views.
The main lookout areas and picnic spots are relatively flat and accessible. The small trail might be uneven, so strollers could be challenging.
📸 camera_with_flash Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. Clear days provide excellent visibility for capturing the vast Bay of Quinte.
You can capture stunning landscape shots of the lake and the Bay of Quinte, as well as serene nature photos. The unique elevation of the lake makes for interesting compositions.
Drone usage is subject to Transport Canada regulations and park-specific rules. It's always best to check the latest guidelines before flying a drone in any provincial park.
Experiment with different vantage points from the lookout. The area directly across from the parking lot offers a classic view of the lake and the bay beyond.
Yes, if the ferry is operating and visible from the lookout points, you can capture photos of it crossing the Bay of Quinte.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there isn't a playground, the open grassy areas provide space for kids to move around safely. The short, easy trail is also manageable for little legs. The nearby ferry ride can be an added adventure that kids often enjoy.
🚗 Day-Trippers & Road Trippers
Combine your visit with stops at local wineries, charming towns, or the famous Sandbanks beaches. The park's accessibility and its status as a unique natural wonder make it a must-see on any PEC itinerary.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The park is also a great spot to photograph the Glenora Ferry in action, adding a dynamic element to your shots. The panoramic views are ideal for wide-angle lenses, while the clarity of the lake can be captured with telephoto lenses for detail.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enigmatic Lake
Locals and visitors alike often ponder the origins of this high-altitude body of water. Theories range from underground springs to ancient geological processes. The lack of a clear inflow or outflow makes it a subject of natural curiosity, perfect for contemplation during a peaceful visit.
While you can't swim in the lake, its beauty is best appreciated from the surrounding viewpoints. The clear water often reveals fish and other aquatic life, adding to the serene natural spectacle.
Prince Edward County Road Trips
Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Sandbanks Provincial Park for beach activities, or explore the culinary delights of PEC, including restaurants like The Drake Devonshire. The county is also known for its numerous wineries and craft breweries, making it a popular destination for weekend getaways and day trips.
Consider incorporating the free Glenora Ferry into your PEC itinerary. This ferry crosses the Bay of Quinte and offers a unique perspective of the landscape, connecting you to different parts of the county and enhancing your road trip experience.
Picnicking and Relaxation
Visitors often praise the tranquility of the park, noting it as a great place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle. The combination of the scenic vistas and the peaceful ambiance makes it an ideal location for quiet contemplation or simply enjoying a good book.
Remember to pack your picnic basket and any essentials you might need, as amenities are limited. The focus here is on natural beauty and relaxation, so come prepared to enjoy the simple pleasures of a scenic picnic.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit