Portland, Ontario offers peaceful lakeside adventures with great paddling, hiking, and fishing on Big Rideau Lake. This small town is an ideal basecamp for exploring the Rideau Canal system and nearby provincial parks.
Portland, Ontario offers peaceful lakeside adventures with great paddling, hiking, and fishing on Big Rideau Lake. This small town is an ideal basecamp for exploring the Rideau Canal system and nearby provincial parks.
Outdoor Adventure in Portland, Ontario
Located on the shores of Big Rideau Lake, Portland, Ontario is a charming town for paddlers, hikers, and anglers looking for a quiet natural getaway. Surrounded by the Rideau Canal waterway and forested landscapes, it offers a variety of year-round outdoor activities.
Discover the unique natural wonders, summits, and scenic landmarks that make Portland, Ontario special.
★ 7.5⌖ 13.00 milesEasyExplore the 2.2-mile Baxter Mountain Trail near Keene. This easy route offers stunning views with only a moderate climb, making it ideal for families and beginners. Drive to the trailhead and experience the scenic Adirondacks, especially vibrant in spring and fall.
Discover the top adventure activities and curated experiences in Portland, Ontario, verified by our editors to help you make the most of your trip.
Book unforgettable outdoor adventures, guided tours, and gear rentals with verified Local Experts in Portland, Ontario.
⌖ 11.2 miPublic charters run by Freedom Scuba USA out of Hammond ferry small groups to historic wrecks in the St. Lawrence River; this guide details what to expect, what to bring and the dive depths for novice to advanced divers.
⌖ 23.8 miA narrated cruise from Clayton navigates roughly 20 miles of the St. Lawrence’s 1000 Islands, passing Boldt Castle, Rock Island Lighthouse and Sunken Rock Lighthouse on a compact, two‑hour loop.
⌖ 25.2 miA 3.5‑hour, 27‑mile intimate boat tour from Clayton that threads US and Canadian channels, stopping at Heart Island for a self‑guided visit to Boldt Castle and passing the storied homes of Millionaire's Row.
⌖ 25.3 miAn exclusive, 45-minute sightseeing cruise aboard a 30′ triple-cockpit Hacker Craft that departs from and returns to the Antique Boat Museum docks—this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.
⌖ 26.5 miA focused, 2.5-hour boat tour from Clayton that threads U.S. and Canadian waters among the Thousand Islands, highlighting shoreline history and river wildlife without passport formalities.
⌖ 26.7 miFive nightly departures from Clayton Island Tours put you on the St. Lawrence River for a 2+ hour July 3 fireworks cruise with adult- and family-focused options.
⌖ 27.7 miPedal Boat Rentals in Chippewa Bay run from half-day excursions to five-day trips out of Riverbay Adventure Inn; this guide lays out what to bring, where you launch, and the map-and-route support included.
⌖ 27.7 miSingle- and multi-day rentals from Riverbay Adventure Inn let small groups explore Chippewa Bay aboard a Coast Guard–equipped 24' pontoon; this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.
⌖ 27.7 miA riverview three‑bedroom lodge at the entrance to the Chippewa Bay Preserve trail that sleeps nine and includes one boat slip; this guide lays out what to expect and what to pack.
⌖ 27.7 miSingle sit‑on‑top kayak rentals on Chippewa Bay, offered in durations from a half day up to five days with map and route guidance — this guide explains what to expect and what to bring.
⌖ 27.7 miA renovated two‑bedroom riverfront cottage with a screened porch, fully stocked kitchen, gas fireplace and one boat slip — this guide orients you to the stay and practical details.
⌖ 27.7 miSingle- and multiday rentals (1–14 days) of a 20' pontoon from Riverbay Adventure Inn, equipped with a 40 hp Honda motor, onboard GPS and Coast Guard safety gear — this guide explains pickup, packing and limits for exploring Chippewa Bay.
⌖ 27.7 miA completely remodeled, riverfront two‑bedroom cottage with a fully stocked kitchen, knotty‑pine interior and a screened‑in porch; one boat slip is included in the rental.
⌖ 27.7 miA rustic two-bedroom cottage on Chippewa Bay with a screened-in porch, barbecue setup, and one boat slip included—this guide explains what to expect and what to bring.
⌖ 27.7 miSingle‑ or multi‑day rentals of a 24' pontoon with a 60hp Honda outboard, onboard GPS and a full Coast Guard package — a practical guide to renting Boat #19 from Riverbay Adventure Inn.
Make the most of your visit to Portland, Ontario with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected lands.
Portland, Ontario hosts celebrated events throughout the year showcasing the region's culture, outdoor lifestyle, and community spirit.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Portland, Ontario during the iconic Portland Summer Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Portland, Ontario during the iconic Rideau Lakes Canoe Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Bring insect repellent during warmer months.
Check local launch points for paddling access and permits.
Book accommodations early for summer holidays.
Carry winter gear if visiting for snowshoeing or winter hiking.
Fuel and supplies can be limited, so plan accordingly.
Always check local regulations, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and weather forecasts before setting out on any adventure in Portland, Ontario. Respect nature, wildlife, and fellow adventurers by following Leave No Trace principles.