Tighter controls on Rock Dunder

Access to Rock Dunder, circled in red in this 2017 image from Google Maps, is being restricted starting this year by its owner, the Rideau Waterway Land Trust. The trust made the move this year because the natural landmark is starting to see wear from overuse. (Google Maps via Newswatch Group)

MORTON – Access to a rocky outcrop, high over Morton Bay, will be less accessible to the public…unless you’re willing to pay.

The Rideau Waterway Land Trust has announced it’s restricting access to Rock Dunder to only those who are supporters of the RWLT.

The not-for-profit has allowed free access for years but the growing popularity of the rock formation, which is part of the Frontenac Arch Biosphere, has led to problems with degradation due to overuse.

Rock Dunder is one of many community and conservation lands the RWLT has in Leeds-Grenville. It bought the 230 acre wilderness area in 2006.

In about a month from now, you will have to be a trust member to access the 84 meter (275 foot) cliff overlooking Morton Bay.

The summit is accessed by a series of trails that loop from Stanley Lash Lane off Highway 15.

Details on exactly how much that will cost are still being worked out by the Rideau Waterway Land Trust and will be posted on its website next month.

Access to Rock Dunder, circled in red in this 2017 image from Google Maps, is being restricted starting this year by its owner, the Rideau Waterway Land Trust. The trust made the move this year because the natural landmark is starting to see wear from overuse. (Google Maps via Newswatch Group)