Windy Ridge
Explore
Windy Ridge Conservation Area
Experience the beauty and diversity of nature at Windy Ridge Conservation Area. Featuring 1.8 km of multi-use trails, this remarkable destination offers opportunities for hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, and biking, all while taking in stunning panoramic views from the lookout atop one of the area’s tallest ridges.
Nestled in the picturesque Kawartha region, Windy Ridge is more than just a scenic retreat—it is a vital natural habitat that supports local wildlife and plant species. With a range of ecosystems, including open meadows and tranquil forests, the area serves as a haven for birdwatching, environmental education, and moments of quiet reflection.
The conservation area’s history is rooted in community stewardship and conservation efforts. In 1999, Hugo Germeraad generously donated 87 acres of land, laying the foundation for what is now Windy Ridge. This was followed in 2004 by a collaboration with Ontario Heritage Trust and Ducks Unlimited, who helped secure an additional 122 acres from the Tuckerman Family. Today, Kawartha Conservation proudly manages these lands on behalf of the Ontario Heritage Trust.
Whether you're exploring its trails, taking part in community programs, or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings, Windy Ridge Conservation Area invites you to connect with nature and experience the unique beauty of the Kawartha region.
Facilities
Windy Ridge offers:
- Washroom
- Picnic shelter
- Garbage cans
- Lookout
- Hiking trails
Activities
Things to do at Windy Ridge:
- Hike and bike the 1.8 km trail system
- Birding
- Dog-walking (on leash only)
- Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing (trails ungroomed)
- The Talking Forest
- Word scramble course
Hours of operation
We are open daily all year.
- May to October from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- November to April from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
A Prescription for Nature Program
PaRx
Kawartha Conservation is paving the way for residents to enhance their physical and mental health, through a new collaboration with Canada’s national nature prescription program, PaRx.
Visitors issued a PaRx nature prescription from their health care provider can receive a 25% discount on an annual parking pass from Kawartha Conservation, which is good for:
- Ken Reid Conservation Area
- Durham East Cross Forest
- Windy Ridge Conservation Area
- Pigeon River Headwaters Conservation Area
This collaboration will empower residents to reap the health benefits of spending time in nature.
To access your 25% discount please talk to your health care provider about getting a PaRx Prescirption, and then call Kawartha Conservation at 705.328.2271 to complete your Annual Parking Pass process, or come into our Administrative Office Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Click here to visit the PaRX website for more information
Parking
Parking is $4 including HST per vehicle per day, or $84.75 including HST for an annual parking pass, which includes all Kawartha Conservation conservation areas. Seniors 65 + can get an annual Parking Pass, good for any of our conservation areas for $67.80.
Visitors can purchase a daily parking pass or an annual membership from their mobile device by:
- Scanning the QR code posted at the conservation area
- Visiting the Parkedin website
- Downloading the Parkedin mobile app, available for Apple and Android devices
You can create a Parkedin account for faster future purchases or complete your transaction as a guest.
How It Works
- Scan the on-site QR code or open the Parkedin website or mobile app.
- Select the appropriate Conservation Area zone.
- Enter your vehicle licence plate number.
- Choose either a Daily Parking Pass or Annual Membership.
- Complete your payment.
Your parking permit or membership is linked directly to your vehicle's licence plate, so there is no paper ticket or permit to display in your vehicle.
Conservation Area Zone Numbers
| Conservation Area | Zone Number |
|---|---|
| Ken Reid Conservation Area | 1879 |
| Durham East Cross Forest Conservation Area | 1880 |
| Windy Ridge Conservation Area | 1881 |
| Pigeon River Headwaters Conservation Area | 1882 |
Annual Memberships
Annual memberships purchased through the Parkedin website or mobile app are valid for one year from the date of purchase.
If you purchase a new vehicle or need to update the licence plate associated with your membership, please contact Kawartha Conservation and we will be happy to assist you.
Getting here
Windy Ridge Conservation Area is located in the City of Kawartha Lakes at 998 Mount Horeb Rd., just west of 7A in Omemee and east of Highway 35.
Contact Us
Kawartha Conservation
277 Kenrei Road
Lindsay, ON K9V 4R1
Tel: 705.328.2271
Fax: 705.328.2286
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