Vanderwater Conservation Area

Vanderwater Conservation Area at 512 Vanderwater Road, Thomasburg ON is located along the banks of the Moira River. 

Status: Interior road is closed for the season.

View of naturally occurring rock formations, with clear water and lush green trees in the background.
A great blue heron perched on a log by a lush, green lakeside, with dense foliage in the background.
A serene walking path lined with lush green trees and shrubs under a bright clear sky.
A serene view of a shallow pond in the foreground with a dense forest of mixed trees in the background, reflecting the tranquility of a natural landscape.
A serene lake surrounded by lush green foliage under a clear blue sky.
A serene autumn landscape showing a lake reflecting colorful fall foliage from surrounding trees under a clear sky.
A forest scene with a "Nature Trail" sign pointing to the right, amid numerous tall trees with sunlight filtering through the branches.
A serene nature trail with a path made of sandy soil and flat stones, bordered by lush green trees and shrubs under a partly cloudy sky.
A serene path winds through a lush green forest, filled with an abundance of trees and sunlight filtering through the foliage.
Lush forest setting with dense trees and a clear, dirt-covered ground, under bright daylight.

Explore Vanderwater

Visitors can explore a trail network consisting of 16 km that will lead them through mature forests and to the Moira River where the water cascades over a series of limestone steps.

Things to look for:

  • Hiking
  • Cross country skiing and snowshoeing (trails are not groomed)
  • Dog walking (dogs must be leashed at all times)
  • Picnicking
  • Passive Biking
    • Passive Biking is recognized by Quinte Conservation as the activity in which individuals on bicycles traverse designated trails outlined by the Authority at a leisurely pace that would not pose a danger to trail users or wildlife, and would have minimal environmental impact.

  • Parking lot
  • Picnic tables
  • Picnic shelter
  • Portable washroom

Beginner Trails 

  • Relatively even terrain
  • Wide trail

Intermediate Trails 

  • Some elevation gain
  • Some steep sections
  • Uneven terrain

Advanced Trails 

  • Elevation gain
  • Several long, steep sections
  • Rough terrain with muddy sections
  • Seasonal wet/water crossings
  • Narrow trail

When visiting Quinte Conservation's areas, please make sure to:

  • Keep your pets leashed and clean up after them at all times
  • Stay on marked trails
  • Take everything with you, including your pet's waste – there are no garbage bins
  • Never remove natural items

Please note:

  • Area opens at sunrise and closes at sunset
  • Overnight camping is not allowed
  • Alcohol is not allowed
  • Campfires are not allowed

The cross-country skiing trails are not groomed and motorized vehicles are not permitted outside of designated parking areas.

This includes, but is not limited to:

  • All-terrain vehicles and dirt bikes
  • Motorized or electric bikes
  • Snowmobiles
  • Cars and SUVs
  • Motorized aerial devices such as drones
Aerial map showing various color-coded trails with symbols indicating different amenities and landmarks around a central lake.

Trail Map

Avenza Maps Logo

Avenza Mobile Map

Three people hiking on a forest trail, with one individual carrying another on their shoulders.

Story Map

A sign with a QR code and the text "Nature Sanctuary" attached to a tree trunk, surrounded by foliage with a water body in the background.

Guided Audio Hike

White canvas with 'Vanderwater Conservation Area' written and the Quinte Conservation logo.

Parking

You must pay to park at this conservation area. There is a daily parking pass that you can use between areas. A daily pass is valid on the day of purchase. Annual parking passes are also available.

Visit our parking page to learn more. 

 

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