When will I find the prettiest snow in the Ottawa, Canada area (I am photographing a road trip)?

I am planning to take a drive from Toronto to Ottawa, Canada through the 1000 Islands on the St Lawrence River, from Kingston to Cornwall. I am intending to photograph my trip, and am trying to figure out when to go this winter. I am hoping for lots of clean snow, frozen lakes and rivers, and cold, clear brisk weather that isn't too sloppy or wet. I could take the trip any time from December through March.
I would also appreciate your advice if I'm wrong about trying to shoot during the winter, as in if winter is not a great time to be photographing the area, and if summer would be a better time to plan my trip.
Also, if there is anything particularly of note that I should make sure to visit in the area, I'd love your insight! Thanks so much!

I would say there should be nice snow around the end of january and the beginning of Feb. When you get into March,, the snow starts to melt and looks dirty at times - except right after a snowfall. The most beuatiful time to take pictures is right after a snowfall - like the same day. But it would probably be the worst time to drive.

Hmmm.....

I'd have to say Gatineau Park....
The locks beside the Chateau Laurier can always provide a wonderful winter scene...
Hogs Back falls also has some GREAT scenery in the winter....

When traveling from Kingston take the 1000 Island Parkway from Gananoque rather than old highway #2. The Parkway will follow the river from Gan to Brockville whereas the old #2 turns inland at Gan and doesn't meet up with the river again until Brockville.

If the weather is anything like last year you may have to wait unti the end of January or mid February to photograph the snow or ice on the ST Lawrence.

Near Prescott there is a place where there might be some lake freighter ships tied up for winter I have always thought that it might make a good shot with the grain elevators in the background (kind of an industrial look).

They usually light the buildings up in downtown Brockville it might make a nice night shot (if there is any snow). Also if you stop in Kingston down by the river/lake there are some old Martelo (sp) towers that would be good to take a snap of for your trip and possibly Old Fort Henry. Unfortuantely Upper Canada Village in Morrisburg and Old Fort Henry will be closed


BTW the trip is also good in the summer and in the fall with all the leaves on the trees, not so great in the spring but a good motorbike trip any time of year.

Early February is a great time to come, and Winterlude is happening so there are cool ice sculptures to photograph, as well as all the great nature and architecture.

I agree with most of what Dangerman said, except that I also think you could get some magnificent pictures in the Spring when the trees have just turned green. I would add that it is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to predict when the best snowfall will be. Usually this will occur between early January and early March, but we have "thaws" during that period too. If you must plan now, I would suggest February, but keep an eye on the weather forecast and try to be flexible.

The Gananoque / Brockville area receives terrible blizzards from time to time, probably as lake-effect snow. It can be extremely hazardous to drive there during a storm, especially on the 401. Be aware.

The 1000 Islands Parkway is my favourite drive in the world, and there are several spots to stop and take pictures of The River. There is a federal boat launch in the village of Ivy Lea from which you can take some pictures that few people would have. I've never been there in winter; access may be difficult. Don't drive right down to the dock. Park at the motel across the road. Wear your warmest clothes, and boots with excellent treads.