On the way back from our adventure to Bruce Peninsula we stopped in Prince Edward County. The plan was to visit the famous Dunes Beach at Sandbanks Provincial Park.
Dunes Beach
Dunes Beach is a stunning recreational area at Sandbanks Park. It faces shallow waters of West Lake. The dunes protect the beach from the prevailing winds of Lake Ontario.
This dune ecosystem is very rare and truly spectacular. We were lucky with not too many people on the beach. This summer week was exceptionally cold. But it didn’t stop us from having fun.
The swimming zone separated by ropes and buoys, but a few meters past this line the lake-bottom slopes away deeply.
Hiking in Sandbanks Park.
The park offers hiking trails, which have been established with help of non-profit organization – Friends of Sandbanks Park.
Cedar Sands Nature Trail – 2 km, loop, easy
This trail goes along the shores of the Outlet River and has two lookouts with scenic views. The trail offers 12 stops. Trail guides are available at the trailhead or the Nature Shop.
Woodlands Trail – 3.5 km, linear, easy
The trail starts at the Main Gate parking lot, goes through the Woodland Campground, crosses the old farm until it reaches County Road 12 and the entrance to the Dunes Beach area.
Sandbanks Dunes Trail – 2.5 km, loop, easy to moderate
The trail loops through the dune area. This dune system is one of the largest of its kind in the world. It surrounded by rare wetland habitat with unique wildlife and unusual flora.
Tips to remember:
- If you plan camping reserve campsites well in advance.
- Sandbanks beach can be very busy, especially on hot days in the summer. Electronic road signs will let you know if the park is full. Get to the park early in the day.
- The most popular beaches at Sandbanks are the Outlet and The Dunes. Both beaches have washrooms. For a less crowded area, visit the Sandbanks Beach. This is about 6 km of beach, west of West Lake.
- If possible visit the park in off-season.
- For the picnic don’t forget to bring a picnic blanket.
- There are some fire ants, especially near the trees. Bring the chairs to protect yourself, or sit far from the trees.
- Don’t forget to bring a sunscreen with you. Even though there are many shady places, you will still be exposed to the sun.
- When on the trails watch out for poison ivy.
- After the hike check yourself, children and dogs carefully for ticks.
- Stop by Lake Shore Lodge for the great views.
- If you can, visit the sand dunes on the sunset. The views are amazing.
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