Wolfe Island (Ontario)

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Wolfe Island is an island located at the entrance to the Saint Lawrence River in Lake Ontario near Kingston, Ontario. It is the largest of the Thousand Islands. The island is part of Frontenac County, Ontario. Together with Howe Island and Simcoe Island, it forms the township of Frontenac Islands. The island is about 29 km long with its width varying from its widest around 9 km to a few hundred metres at some points; approximately 124 square km (48 square miles). The resident population is approximately 1200 people, but this number can double or triple during the summer months.

It can be reached by ferry from both Canada and the United States. The ferry from Kingston, operated by the Government of Ontario, is free. The toll ferry to Cape Vincent, New York has been operated by the Horne family for generations.

The largest community on the island is Marysville.

Snowy Owls are frequently seen on the island during winter. It is also an important stopover location for migrating waterfowl in spring. Wolfe Island is also home to a growing population of wild turkeys, and well as deer and other fauna.

The Big Sandy Bay Conservation Area on Wolfe Island is a 404-hectare property, classified as a sensitive area of Natural and Scientific Interest. Sand dunes and wetlands allow rare plant species to flourish here. Rare trees and birds deemed to be significant either regionally or provincially are also found here. The environmental area is protected and no motorized vehicles are allowed, though there is ample free parking provided at the entrance. A well-marked and level walking trail leads to a large, secluded sand beach with shallows reaching out well into Lake Ontario. The beach is safe and family-friendly, but there are no services, so visitors are encouraged to bring their own refreshments.

There are two golf courses on Wolfe Island, a corn maze and extensive bike paths and country roads. The town of Marysville includes a famous local bakery, an art gallery, restaurants and various other shops and services, as well as the largest church in the Thousand Islands (Sacred Heart of Mary Church).

This island was named after British General James Wolfe.