Spend a wonderfully relaxing and joyful day at Blueberry Mountain. September can be a deceptive month – warm, bright, and summery at first glance – yet quietly carrying the promise of crisp air and brilliant colour. As the landscape begins its slow shift toward fall, Blueberry Mountain stands ready to showcase the season in all its glory.
The Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust (MMLT) invites the community to join them for the annual Fall Colours Walk on Saturday, October 3rd, hosted generously by Howard Clifford and his family at their spectacular cliffLAND property located at 502 Hills of Peace Road near Lanark,. This special fundraising day has become a cherished tradition supporting MMLT’s conservation work across the Mississippi–Madawaska region.
Visitors are welcome anytime between 10:00am and 2:00pm to explore the trails, enjoy the forest, and take in the famous summit view. Recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of Lanark County, Blueberry Mountain offers sweeping vistas that showcase the full glory of the fall landscape.
But Blueberry Mountain is more than a beautiful place – it holds a unique place in MMLT’s history. CliffLAND was the first protected land acquired by MMLT, and the first conservation easement agreement in North America to include a public access mandate. Thanks to the Clifford family’s vision and generosity, this remarkable landscape is open for the public to enjoy.
The trail itself is a 5 km round trip with a gradual ascent through maple, beech, oak, spruce, pine, and cedar forest. Hikers can follow a short detour off the main trail to view a picturesque waterfall cascading over rock cliffs before reaching the short, steep climb to the lookout. The property also features a 150‑year‑old pine grove, an ancient cedar over 300 years old, and the secluded Mann Lake tucked deep in the forest.
Along the way, visitors can pause at the Circle of Gratitude, a meaningful installation honouring MMLT’s dedicated supporters. Parking is available at the trailhead, dogs on leash are welcomed and light refreshments will be provided. And should mother nature call, there is an outhouse-style privy on the trail.
Donations are always appreciated and should you want a souvenir to support MMLP, both are available at the Welcome Desk.
Whether you’re a long-time supporter or discovering Blueberry Mountain for the first time, this event is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the fall season, connect with nature, and learn more about MMLT’s work protecting ecologically significant lands across the region. To explore MMLT’s other public trails or learn more about the Fall Colours Walk, visit www.mmlt.ca.
