Enjoy the outdoors at this tranquil getaway offering a unique glamping experience. This charming log cabin is situated on a former ski resort with 240 acres of trails and views and ski runs. You can use the third highest ski hill in Ontario right out the door, or enjoy other recreational opportunities in the vicinity, including hiking, biking, swimming, rock climbing, cross-country skiing at Madawaska Nordic, or downhill skiing at Calabogie Peaks. Or just relax and chill. NO RUNNING WATER!
The space
A former ski hill with many kilometres of trails and multiple lookouts await you at Last Run cabin. It is a perfect place for hiking, AT skiing, snowshoeing, stargazing, biking, and more.
The 240 acre property is located on the north escarpment of the St Patrick Mountains in Renfrew County. Developed as a ski hill during the 1940’s, it was originally named Candiac and later Dacre Heights. With three lifts servicing 620 feet of vertical drop, it was the third-highest ski hill in Ontario and a favourite of local skiers. There are more than 10 kilometers of trails and runs, with several magnificent views over the Ottawa Valley.
The public is permitted to use the property as long as they respect the rules (no hunting, no dogs, no motorised vehicles). Since the lifts stopped operating in 2001 only a few Alpine Touring enthusiasts continue to ski the runs and glades, primarily on days with fresh powder. A switch-back trail leading to the top is enjoyed by hikers in the fall and some hardy cross-country skiers.
Within a twenty minute drive are numerous other hiking trails, lakes with boat launches and beaches, a downhill ski resort, groomed and backcountry ski trails, pubs, restaurants, and even caves to explore.
Last Run cabin is the only accommodation on the property. It is nestled in a clearing a little ways up the side of the escarpment, this cozy 1960’s PanAbode log cottage once graced the shores of Mississippi Lake. In 2020, rescued from certain destruction, it was dismantled, reassembled, and renovated to serve as a ski chalet and four season retreat.
The chalet is a short hike from the parking lot. On days with good powder you may see a dozen or more hardy skiers zip past, but much of the year the property is quiet. The location feels quite isolated, and while the closest neighbour is only 200 meters away they cannot be seen from the cabin.
Step inside, and you may notice the faintest fresh scent characteristic of buildings constructed of western red cedar. The walls and ceiling are of cedar, and the floors are reclaimed maple, pine, and tile, giving a warm comfortable ambience.
A stay at the cabin is best described as a glorified glamping experience. There is electricity, but no running water, laundry, or garbage service. Guests must bring sufficient water for personal needs and washing dishes, as well as sheets or sleeping bags and pillowcases, and pack out their trash. Radiant heating keeps the cabin toasty on winter nights, and it is stocked with plenty of pillows and blankets.
The cabin accommodates six with ease. Two of the bedrooms have queen-sized beds, and the third has a single-sized bunk bed. The living area includes a large main room, a well-appointed kitchen (with a full stove, fridge, coffee maker, microwave, and dishes) and a sizable screen porch.
The composting toilet facilities are located steps away in a separate spacious, bright, and odor-free structure - perhaps the nicest outhouse you may ever encounter.
Sound carries down the hill, so loud partying will annoy the neighbors and they are not shy about complaining.... If you want to have a party please book elsewhere.
WARNING: Guests staying at the chalet willingly assume all risks when they use the hill, in accordance with the Occupier’s Liability Act of Ontario (since the Host providing accommodation is not the owner of the hill).
Guest access
Guests have use of the entire cabin, as well as the 240 acre property.
Other things to note
THERE IS NO RUNNING WATER, with all that that implies. Guests must bring sufficient water for drinking, cooking, and washing hands and dishes.
GUESTS MUST BRING THEIR OWN BEDDING. Blankets are provided, but guests must bring their own sheets and pillowcases.
THE CABIN MIGHT BE QUITE COOL WHEN YOU ARRIVE. The thermostats will have been turned down between guests, so it may take a few hours for everything to become comfortably warm. Make sure to bring sweaters and slippers if you visit in the winter months.
INSECT REPELLENT MIGHT BE NICE TO HAVE IN THE SUMMER. From mid May through mid August the bugs can be a nuisance.
