Plan ahead to avoid fall colour crowds at Foley Mountain

Foley Mountain’s Spy Rock lookout is a popular fall destination at the best of times, but this year staff are preparing for record crowds as pandemic-weary residents search for safe ways to enjoy the season’s splendour.

Staff will be monitoring the volume of cars at peak times and turning vehicles away if necessary to manage crowds and line-ups.

Spy Rock lookout will be limited to 25 people at a time, and visitors will be encouraged to use auxiliary parking at the Interpretive Centre and other areas of the park to ease congestion.

Site supervisor Rebecca Whitman said Thanksgiving weekend is the busiest time of the year, with weekends on either side of the holiday also attracting large crowds.

She said guests can help ensure their visit goes smoothly by following these tips:

• Arrive during off-peak times (ex. early morning, mid-week)
• Bring coins instead of credit cards for the pay machine, or use www.PayByPhone.com (location code 5204)
• Be prepared to hike to the lookout from auxiliary parking 
• Have a backup plan if the park is full, especially if you’re coming from out of town
• Pack a picnic and enjoy other parts of the park, not just the lookout
• Bring a mask for crowded areas and stay home if you’re feeling unwell.

For maps and general park information visit www.rvca.ca/foley-fall-colours. For the most up-to-date information follow our Facebook pages at @FoleyMountain and @RideauValleyConservationAuthority or follow RVCA on Twitter at @RideauValleyCA.

You can also contact rebecca.whitman@rvca.ca with specific questions.

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Author: Hometown News