On Friday October 10th, I set out in search of the best local view of the Fall Colours.  I chose to hike Blueberry Mountain in the Lanark highlands.  I have never been to this trail before and it certainly did not disappoint.

Blueberry Mountain is listed as one of the seven wonders of Lanark County.  It is part of CliffLAND, owned by the Clifford family; this special piece of the Canadian Shield has been protected in perpetuity by a land trust and is accessible to the public for hiking year-round.

Arriving at Blueberry Mountain there is a decent sized parking area with additional parking possible along the road.  You are then greeted by a large sign, with a guest book and box to deposit your signed waivers (the only requirement for land access), underneath.

Even with the many fallen leaves, the trail was well defined and easy to navigate.  I am a sucker for an informative plaque, to the point it drives my family a little batty as I will detour to read any tidbits of trivia or educational content.  So I was delighted to find beautiful etched plaques all along the trail.  There were also numerous benches with dedications on them.  It was a lovely way to feel connected to the many other people that have walked these paths before me.  Near the parking lot there is an outhouse, which I think is always a highlight feature in maintained outdoor areas.  A gratitude circle with names of sponsors and donors is a beautiful and unobtrusive tribute also located near the entrance.  

There is a fairly steady incline along the trail with some flat sections.  I crossed over some dried creekbeds and read there is a seasonal waterfall but did not see that this time around.  While I was enjoying the beautiful fall colours and relatively cool temperatures, I imagine this trail would be quite buggy during warmer months as there are several marshy areas and small ponds.  These served as picturesque viewpoints in otherwise well treed areas.  The whole trail to the lookouts at the top of the mountain is not long but it is steep enough (especially near the top) to feel like a workout.

There is a small loop off the main trail with a nice view of a pond and some interesting rock formations.  Based on reading their website it is my understanding that this space is intended for artists to find inspiration and a quiet place to produce their art.  With multiple benches planned for the path, small groups will be able to utilise the space simultaneously.

When I broke through the treeline at the top of Blueberry Mountain and got my first glimpse of the views I exclaimed under my breath.  It is truly awe inspiring.  From the top of the mountain you can see an incredible view over the Lanark highlands and Madawaska highlands.  With the fall colours in full effect, the forests and waterways from that vantage point are absolutely breathtaking.  I can’t imagine a better spot to sit and have lunch.  The multiple benches at the two lookout points facilitate a perfect space for quiet reflection.

After spending some time appreciating the view I hiked back down the mountain.  I took my time, enjoying the soft rustle of wind through the trees.  I spotted a small garter snake but otherwise no other wildlife that day.  I truly enjoyed my time at Blueberry Mountain; the sights, sounds and smells; taking lots of photos and videos along the way.  I know I will revisit this trail, I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a short trail with a huge payoff.

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