Biking
There are no dedicated bike trails but the roadways provide some nice cycling with interesting views throughout the park.
Birding
Ferris hosts a selection of breeding birds typical of forest and old fields.
Boating
Boating is possible downstream along the Trent River with a boat launch facility available in the park.
Canoeing
It is possible to launch a canoe at the south end of the park, downstream from the falls and gorge. It is recommended that exploration be limited downstream from the park to avoid the falls and dam.
Discovery Program
Join Discovery staff at an Exploration Station during the months of July and August. Bring along your Discovery Activity Book (or pick one up at the Exploration Station), and use the equipment and materials provided to explore the park, observe plants and animals, and discover the wonders of nature. Be sure to share your observations with park staff! For more information keep an eye out for weekly calendar of events posted throughout the park.
Fishing
It is possible to fish from shore at the south end of the park or by boat along the Trent River.
Hiking
Drumlin Trail System - 3 interconnecting looped trails: Blue 1.2 km (1.0 hour); White 2.5 km (2 hours) and Red 2.5 km (2.5 hours), moderate
The Drumlin Trail System takes you through mature mixed forest, by small wetlands and along seasonal creeks that have developed on two elongate hills called drumlins. These drumlins were formed thousands of years ago by glaciers, and largely left as woodlots by European settlers. The spring wildflowers can be spectacular in spring.
The Blue and White Trails take you near areas where the Ferris family’s sugar houses, shingle mill, granary and sheep pens once stood. The Red Trail goes around the back of the second drumlin, taking you past the old W. Cock Brickyard. Little physical evidence remains of these pioneering enterprises but their legacy as the forerunners of today’s vibrant local communities is not forgotten.
Ranney Falls Trail - 1 km (0.5 hours), loop, easy, level
This trail follows the original roadway to Ferris Provincial Park before looping back along the river, where there are magnificent views of the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge and Ranney Falls. The gorge edge habitat supports different vegetation from the rest of the park, including the regionally rare Chinquapin Oak. Look for its unique saw-tooth shape on trees along the trail or on fallen leaves underfoot. The trail finishes by passing through a restful picnic area, perfect for lunch, or a short break.
River Gorge Trail - 3.5 km (2 hours), loop, easy, parts can be wet in the spring. (Yellow markers)
This trail offers magnificent views of the Trent River gorge from the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge, before continuing downstream past the old Ferris Quarry and onto the legendary “sheep wash”, now a picnic area. The trail continues south, following the river’s edge for more fantastic views of the Trent River. On your way back upstream the trail travels through meadows and past Ferris’s unique stone fences, some of which have recently been rebuilt.
Swimming
The presence of a dam upstream with strong currents prevents swimming at the park but an indoor pool and outdoor natural swimming opportunities are available just a short distance away.