St Marys: Limestone, History and Riverside Trails

St Marys brings together historic limestone architecture, local history and a network of trails with activities by the water. If you are looking for a hotel in St Marys, your interests can help shape your trip planning: local history, different routes or seasonal recreational opportunities. It is worth distinguishing between the individual places and their conditions. For example, the paved Riverview Walkway is not the same as the Loop Trail, which is designated as a cycling trail; West Quarry and St. Marys Quarry also have different activities and rules.

Limestone Architecture and Local History

The nickname “The Stonetown” refers to St Marys’ historic limestone architecture. One specific historic designation concerns Junction Station: the Historic Sites and Monuments Board recognized it in 1973 for its national historical and architectural significance. The limestone theme and the recognition of this individual building thus offer different ways to explore the town’s history.

The St. Marys Museum and Archives is located in a historic house built in 1854. Its exhibitions and materials focus on the local history that has shaped St. Marys. The building and exhibition themes thus connect a historic site with a look at the town’s history. St Marys is also home to a fish ladder thought to be the oldest in Ontario.

Trails and Views

The Riverview Walkway is 2.4 kilometres long and paved. It starts in downtown St. Marys, follows the Thames River and ends at St. Marys Quarry. The Taylor Trail is about 0.25 kilometres long and runs through Rotary Park and along Trout Creek. These details allow for a specific comparison of trail lengths; their described routes also differ: the Riverview Walkway connects downtown, the river and the quarry, while the Taylor Trail runs through the park and along the creek.

At Sarnia Bridge on the Grand Trunk Trail, there are panoramic views in two directions: south over the town and north across the landscape. Those interested in views when choosing a route will find a clearly described north–south perspective here. St Marys has more than 25 kilometres of trails and parkland. The Loop Trail is a 13-kilometre cycling trail through the town. Its designated function as a cycling trail distinguishes it from the descriptions of the Riverview Walkway and Taylor Trail above.

Quarries and Activities by the Water

St. Marys Quarry was once a limestone quarry that closed in 1920. In the mid-1940s, it was converted into a public swimming area. Today, St. Marys Quarry is described as Canada’s largest outdoor freshwater swimming pool; its seasonal operation may vary. Cliff jumping is one of the seasonal activities at the swimming area. The transformation from limestone quarry to swimming area connects the town’s history with a later recreational use.

Activities at West Quarry include fishing, paddling and nature walks. The area offers views of the Thames River and the quarry waters. Fishing is permitted from April 1 to November 30, between sunrise and sunset. Swimming is prohibited at West Quarry. Check the posted rules before your visit. These details concern different quarries: the swimming prohibition applies to West Quarry, while the seasonal swimming activities take place at St. Marys Quarry.

Through Yak Shack, seasonal paddling routes of approximately five kilometres are available on the Thames River and Trout Creek. You can see Sarnia Bridge on the Grand Trunk Trail from a new perspective or paddle through downtown along Trout Creek. The season for the free kayak rental program, which offers single kayaks and paddles, has ended; the program is scheduled to return in 2027. When planning, consider both the seasonal nature of the paddling routes and the status of the rental program.

Discover more destinations: Shakespeare, Listowel, Stratford.

Return to the main travel overview: Perth County.