Lighthouse Conservation Area Trails

Lighthouse Conservation Area is a 1 hectare park located at the mouth of the Thames River at Lake St. Clair. The lighthouse is 200 years old and is one of the three oldest on the Great Lakes. A pioneer family named Cartier settled at the mouth of the Thames River in the early 1800’s and built the first lighthouse. The original frame structure was destroyed by fire during the War of 1812. In 1818, the present structure was built and extended in height to its present level after Confederation. The original Cartier family looked after the lighthouse for about 130 years until William "Dick" Cartier died in 1950. The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority obtained the lighthouse in 1973 and has since moved the structure and rebuilt it stone by stone.

The LTVCA has acquired land in the watershed (see watershed map) to protect environmentally sensitive lands, wetlands, culturally unique features such as the Ska-Nah-Doht Iroquoian Village and significant biological, ecological, historical and scenic qualities from development. Over 1,000 acres of conservation land have been preserved at 20 sites for public use across the LTVCA watershed. It is estimated that well over 1,000,000 people have made use of all the conservation lands over the years. The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Foundation helps to support the programs and facilities offered at these conservation lands. Volunteer groups are valuable partners, assisting the LTVCA with local initiatives, projects and events. Conservation Education programs are offered at several park locations.

Directions: From Chatham, follow Riverview Drive to Tecumseh Drive, north into Lighthouse Cove.

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