cliffLAND is 1250 acres of protected wilderness high in the Lanark Highlands of Ontario. Here the ancient granite of the Canadian Shield meets limestone country, with marble-rich soils creating an unusual richness of biodiversity. The property also lies within the Frontenac Axis — the narrow biological corridor stretching from Algonquin to the Adirondacks.
Protected under a conservation easement with the Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust, cliffLAND has been permanently set aside for the preservation
of wilderness and ecological integrity. Logging, hunting, trapping, and recreational motorized vehicles are prohibited. The forest is intended to mature naturally into old growth over generations to come.
The land has been recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of Lanark County and identified by Environment Canada as an ecologically significant property.
Visitors arriving at cliffLAND first encounter meadow, creek, and waterfall before the trails gradually climb into deeper forest and higher country. Along the way are old pine and hemlock stands that escaped the logger’s axe, hidden cedar groves, beaver-shaped wetlands, and rocky ridges opening to long northern views.
At the summit of Blueberry Mountain — one of the highest scenic lookouts in Lanark County — rolling hills and unbroken forest stretch for miles into the distance. Turkey vultures circle the thermals overhead, loons call from distant lakes, and at times wolves, bears, and moose still move through these woods.
A defining feature of the conservation easement is that the land will remain open to the public regardless of future ownership. The Clifford family hopes visitors today — and generations from now — may continue to find here what wilderness has long offered: quiet, beauty, renewal, and a reminder that the natural world still carries its own ancient rhythms.
Visitors are welcome to hike independently to Blueberry Mountain. Additional trails may be explored through guided visits arranged in advance. All visitors are required to sign a waiver of liability.