One of Canada’s largest concentrations of prehistoric rock art is located in Petroglyphs Provincial Park in Peterborough County. There is also plenty to discover elsewhere in Peterborough County: caves, forest trails, wetlands and historic craft traditions.
Rock Art, Caves and Open Landscapes
Warsaw Caves Conservation Area is home to seven caves formed thousands of years ago at the end of the last Ice Age. In addition, 15 kilometres of trails wind through forests and across open limestone plains. The combination makes the area interesting in two ways: the caves tell the story of the geological past, while the trails reveal the landscape above ground. Canoes and kayaks are available to rent for paddling on the Indian River; rental periods vary by season.
Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park is open year-round for remote backcountry adventures; availability may vary depending on the area and conditions. Outdoor options range from canoeing and backcountry camping to short hikes. This offers different ways to experience nature, without making any one type of activity the deciding factor.
Winter activities at Squirrel Creek Conservation Area include snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. There is also a free public beach and free access to a boat launch on the Otonabee River. Those especially interested in wetlands can find a one-kilometre trail through forests, open fields and wetlands at Miller Creek Wildlife Area. From an observation tower, visitors can view the Miller Creek wetland, which is classified as provincially significant.
Discover Mills and History
Hope Mill Conservation Area is located on the Indian River near Lang, Ontario, and is centred around the historic Hope Mill, built in 1835. Nature walks and exploring Ontario’s heritage are among the things to do here. Hope Mill is open Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., from mid-April to the end of October; seasonal hours may change. Check opening times before your visit. Free tours and saw demonstrations are offered on published opening days.
The mill’s technology is also part of its history: since 2006, volunteers with the Hope Mill Restoration Volunteers have successfully sawn lumber using the original water-powered turbines. This connects the history of the mill, built in 1835, with a hands-on craft activity.
Lang Pioneer Village Museum offers another perspective on life in the past. The open-air museum includes more than 30 restored and reconstructed buildings. Costumed interpreters demonstrate the lives and crafts of 19th-century settlers. A fully operational grist mill adds an example of practical technology to the historic buildings. Together, the buildings, demonstrations and mill offer a glimpse that focuses on both everyday life and the crafts of the time.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Peterborough, Keene, Smith-Ennismore-Lakefield, Curve Lake, Ennismore, Bailieboro, Havelock, Norwood, Woodview, Harcourt.
Return to the main travel overview: Ontario.
