Lake on the Mountain Provincial Park & Glenora Ferry Lookout: Mysterious Lake and Scenic View of Bay of Quinte

Perched high above Bay of Quinte, the Lake on the Mountain is an enchanting natural wonder.

Drone View of Bay of Quinte, Glenora Ferry Dock/ Lake on the Mountain, Credit: Lake on the Mountain Resort

Located just a ten-minute drive from Picton, above the Glenora ferry landing, the free admission Lake on the Mountain Provincial Park is a serene escape. This freshwater marvel, just over 1 sq km in size, rests 60 meters above the Bay of Quinte.

It may sound straightforward, but the lake’s origins are anything but. The Indigenous Mohawks named it ‘Onokenoga,’ translating to ‘Lake of the Gods’, believing it was inhabited by spirits. This belief was so strong that they presented gifts and offerings every spring.

Scenic View/ Credit: To Do Canada

The lake’s mystique has captivated minds for generations. While no clear water source is visible, the lake never dries up. Early settlers theorized that it was bottomless, or perhaps created by a volcanic eruption or meteor strike. However, geologists now believe that the lake is the result of a collapsed doline, a sinkhole that can form in limestone regions. Current measurements suggest the lake is 37 meters deep, most likely fed by two small streams.

The Lake on the Mountain has platform for lookout and a very short trail by the shoreline.

Anglers can look forward to catching Large and Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike, and sunfish in the lake’s clear waters.

Picnic tables invite visitors to bask in the scenic views of the bay and the Glenora Ferry below.

Scenic View of Ferry Terminal/ Credit: To Do Canada

Where to Eat & stay:

Enhancing the park’s charm is its proximity to delightful eateries. The ‘Lake on the Mountain Resort’ on the shore of the lake offers two dining experiences:

The Inn: A blend of historic and contemporary, it offers farm-to-table dishes amidst a rustic limestone general store setting or on a patio overlooking the lake.

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The Miller House: Overlooking the Bay of Quinte, 200 feet below, it offers an opportunity to dine al fresco on their patio, presenting a spectacular view of the Glenora ferry’s crossing.

For an extended experience, the resort also provides accommodation. With seven self-catering cottages and a lakeside apartment, guests can immerse themselves in the tranquillity the lake offers.

Glenora Ferry

Adolphuston Dock/ Credit: To Do Canada

A visit to the area is incomplete without a ride on the Glenora Ferry. Operating from Hwy 33 (Loyalist Highway), this free service offers a scenic 15-minute transit between Prince Edward County’s Lake on the Mountain and Adolphuston. With a generous capacity and frequent service, especially during peak seasons, the ferry ensures visitors can comfortably traverse the waters, adding another unique layer to their Lake on the Mountain experience.

What else to do: You are in Prince Edward County – from Sandbanks provincial park to a plethora of wineries and artistic offerings, there is plenty to do.

Trip Planning – Lake on the Mountain Provincial Park & Glenora Ferry Lookout

Lake on the Mountain/ Credit: To Do Canada

What:

Lake on the Mountain, 60 metres above Lake Ontario, offers pristine waters with an unknown source. Overlooking the Bay of Quinte and Glenora Ferry, it’s an ideal picnic destination in Prince Edward County. The park is for day-use only, with no camping facilities.

Set the expectations right: from a scenic perspective, the lake views are those of a regular lake, but the views of the Bay of Quite across the road and the ferry ride enhance the trip (plus, it is free).