Bulletins

Parks Canada recently conducted an inspection of the Smoky Fire Trail in Thousand Islands National Park and identified just over 50 dead or fallen trees near the trail that pose a risk to public safety and infrastructure. The recommended course of action is to remove these trees during the winter. 

Safety is of the utmost importance for Parks Canada. Access to the Smoky Fire Trail in Thousand Islands National Park will be temporarily closed for hazardous tree removal starting March 2, 2026 and is expected to last approximately two weeks. 

Parks Canada projects related to facilities are subject to impact assessments to ensure appropriate ecological protection measures are in place. The hazardous tree removal will not impact any Species at Risk. Furthermore, all tree removal work will occur in the late winter, outside of the bird nesting season to protect migratory birds and wildlife.

Most of the hazardous trees identified are part of a Red Pine plantation that was affected by a native species of pine bark beetle. This native insect can experience cycles of ‘eruption,’ meaning a sudden increase in population. Eruptions can be driven by factors like abundant food sources or ideal temperature conditions. In this case, an eruption has resulted in a significant increase in Red Pine mortality. This is a natural ecological process that highlights the importance of having a healthy mix of species diversity to help keep the landscape resilient over time.

The Landons Bay and Jones Creek trails remain available to the public as an alternative for those looking for local hiking trails. However, it is important to note that the operating season for Thousand Islands National Park is from Victoria Day long weekend to Thanksgiving long weekend and trails are not maintained in the off season. 

Parks Canada would like to thank the public for their understanding and cooperation.