Things To Do
in South Frontenac

Freshwater walleye (often called pickerel locally) is a regional favourite—pan-fried or battered and served with potatoes and local vegetables; available at seasonal lakeside restaurants and fish fries.

Must-Try!

A classic Ontario sweet: a flaky pastry filled with a gooey sugar-and-butter custard. Find them in local bakeries, farmers' markets and roadside stands.

Pure maple syrup and maple candy from local producers — especially abundant in spring; sold at farm stands and markets.

Hearty, casual dishes like poutine, meat pies and homemade soups are common in pubs and diners, especially after outdoor activities.

A larger market offering produce, baked goods, cheeses, meats and artisanal products from Frontenac County and surrounding areas — great for picnic supplies and sampling local specialties.

Scattered throughout South Frontenac are seasonal farm stands selling berries, vegetables, honey and maple products — ideal for fresh, directly-sourced food.

Cottage country values quiet hours and privacy — keep noise down at night and respect private property and shoreline rights.

Residents are generally friendly and helpful; simple greetings and politeness go a long way in shops and community events.

Follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out what you pack in, respect fire bans and stay on marked trails.

The area is on traditional territories of Indigenous peoples; be respectful of cultural sites and learn about local First Nations where appropriate.

Typical restaurant tipping is 15–20% of the pre-tax bill for table service. Round up for takeaway, $1–2 per bag for helpful staff, and 10–15% for taxi drivers or rounding up to the nearest dollar for short rides.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; smaller vendors and some rural businesses prefer debit (Interac) or cash. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly common in larger stores.

Warm, pleasant weather makes summer the peak season for boating, swimming and festivals; expect mosquitos and black flies in early summer so bring repellent. Cottages and marinas are busiest; book rentals in advance.

Crisp days and vivid fall colours are excellent for hiking and photography; many services wind down after Labour Day but leaf-peeping and quieter trails are big draws.

Cold, snowy winters offer ice fishing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling opportunities; lakes freeze but always check local ice conditions and carry emergency gear. Some businesses close or reduce hours in the off-season.

Spring thaw brings mud on trails and fluctuating water levels; maple syrup season is a highlight in late winter to early spring, and wildflowers emerge later in spring.

Extensive trail network across rugged granite ridges, lakes and backcountry campsites — options range from short loops to multi-day routes for experienced hikers.

A long multi-use trail ideal for hiking, cycling and snowmobiling in winter; follows a former railway corridor through woodlands and farmland.

Offers shoreline trails, lookout points and varied terrain for day hikes and canoeing access; scenic and family-friendly options available.

Shorter, accessible shoreline walks perfect for casual hikers, birdwatchers and families wanting easy access to water views.

Families and retirees who live year-round in small villages and rural properties; engaged in agriculture, trades and local businesses.

People who own or rent cottages from nearby cities, especially in summer — they boost seasonal population and local economy.

First Nations and Indigenous communities live in and near the region; visitors should be aware and respectful of traditional territories and local Indigenous culture.

Visitors drawn for hiking, boating, fishing and camping contribute to tourism services and seasonal events.

Hockey is culturally important across Ontario; local rinks host youth leagues, recreational hockey and community events.

Recreational angling and boating dominate summer sports — many residents and visitors spend weekends on the water.

Snowmobiling is a popular winter pastime with extensive trail networks connecting rural communities and conservation areas.

Local trails and provincial parks provide groomed and backcountry options for skiing in winter.

Vegetarian options exist but can be limited in very small village restaurants — plan ahead by checking menus online or calling. Farmers' markets and cafes typically offer salads, baked goods and seasonal vegetable dishes.

Vegan choices are available but sparser in rural areas; bring staples if staying at a cottage or seek out Kingston for better plant-based dining variety.

Many bakeries and restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests if asked; markets often sell naturally gluten-free items like maple products and preserves.

Smaller kitchens may have limited cross-contamination controls — communicate allergies clearly and consider shopping at markets for safe packaged alternatives.