Charleston Lake Provincial Park’s Tallow Rock Bay Loop
A tiny Ontario trail running gem
Ontario Provincial Parks feature some of the best opportunities for trail runners. We’ve highlighted many Ontario Parks, including such big gems as Frontenac and Killarney; however, there are many smaller parks that sometimes get overlooked. Charleston Lake Provincial Park is one such park. Situated just north of Highway 401 between Kingston and Brockville, getting to the park is relatively easy. Charleston Lake Provincial Park, though relatively small compared to other provincial parks, has much to offer within its 2,596 hectares. As expected on the Canadian Shield, the terrain is very rocky, rolling and rugged. There are several trails that can be run within park boundaries; however, the one that should not be missed is the challenging Tallow Rock Bay Loop. At just over 10k, there is a lot packed into this loop with constantly changing terrain, vegetation and rock formations. From the trailhead, there’s a long, springy boardwalk over the initial wetland that you’ll cross at the start (and end) before the actual loop itself. The preferred direction of the route is clockwise, as you will ease into the run with relatively tame footing for the first few kilometres, before the more challenging trail and spectacular views. The trail is easy to follow, and with markers each kilometre, even if you forget to bring your gps watch, you will still know where you are at on the loop.
The early trail features relatively f lat terrain through meadows and potentially wet low-lying areas. Shortly after reaching a series of magnificent boulders and rock walls that you weave between, you get a view of the namesake of the trail at 4k, Tallow Rock Bay. From there, the trail gets very interesting, as it veers sharply to the right for your first extended climb as you scramble over loose scree. Good trail shoes that grip mud and wet rock are a must.
As you reach the top of this climb the trail opens to expansive views along the many f lat rock sections. The rugged landscape is in shocking contrast to the smoother early parts of the run.
As you begin a gentle descent, you will pass two small lakes where beaver activity is apparent, before reaching one of the highlights of the loop and the Slim Bay Floating Bridge. Crossing this 100 m bridge, you will welcome a cooling breeze as you exit the dense tree cover you’ve been in since early in the run.
Upon crossing the f loating bridge you’ll weave back into the forest
“At just over 10K, there is a lot packed into this loop with constantly changing terrain, vegetation and rock formations.”
Bug Alert
Deer flies can be fierce during the heavy bug season of late June to mid August, so insect repellent may be wise.
Blue Mountain
An additional side trip up Blue Mountain should not be missed as this is the highest point in Leeds County. On a clear day you can see as far as the Adirondack Mountains in New York. Within park boundaries, but must be reached by water or a separate entrance. where the trail continues to be rolling. The smaller climbs bringing you to lookouts that reward with spectacular views of the clear water below.
The footing is now smooth and you can do your fastest running on the loop at this point. The fresh scent of pine needles underfoot is sure to invigorate you. Even though you are approaching 10k into the run, the relentless nature of the loop leaves you feeling like it’s much farther.
Crossing the boardwalk once again indicates that you are nearing the end of the run. The boardwalk seems a little more wobbly now as your legs are feeling the effects of a great run. Derrick Spafford is a regular contributor and trail expert for Canadian Running. He owns healthandadventure.com.