As the name suggests, Kawartha Lakes has an abundance of opportunities for paddling enthusiasts–from beginners to experts, and everyone in between. With more than 250 lakes and waterways, one of the best ways to experience the breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife is by water.
Interested in getting out on the water, but not sure where to begin? We have pre-determined paddling routes to help visitors explore our unique villages, along with some tips to help you make the most of your canoe or kayak experience.
Explore Paddling Routes by Community:
Spend three to four hours on this 8 km round-trip, beginning at the Coboconk Paddling Launch. Explore the undeveloped eastern shore of Indian Point Provincial Park, featuring alvar topography, a globally-rare ecosystem that supports a host of increasingly rare species, including many endangered birds.
This two- to five-hour choose-your-own-adventure paddle will take you from the floating boardwalk launch of the Woodland Loop through the wetlands in the southwest corner of Sturgeon Lake. If you’re interested in more of a challenge, consider trying the 3km trip north from the wetland launch, around the point and into Goose Bay to explore the hiking trails.
This 4km round trip paddle will take you from the southeastern arm of Pigeon Lake into a river that winds to Emily Provincial Park. This makes for a nice opportunity to stop for a mid-way break or stay for the night, with full-service camping for tents and RVs, canoe racks, and a friendly tuck shop.
Launching at Logie Park this two- to three-hour paddle is a 2.4km one-way trip through historic Lindsay. Bringing you right into town, this route offers direct access to the many shops and restaurants of downtown Lindsay, making this an easy and enjoyable way to spend a morning or afternoon.
Bobcaygeon spans three islands at the meeting point of two massive Kawartha Lakes–Sturgeon and Pigeon. Take this half-day trip with three launch points and plenty of options to pull over and enjoy the sites, restaurants, and shopping for which Bobcaygeon is known. Stay aware and respectful of power boat traffic as you navigate this winding network of canals that makes for a unique paddling experience.
Less than 15 minutes from Bobcaygeon, Nogies Creek is an ideal destination for day trips, wild edible excursions, or a casual dip of the paddle. The wetland north of the put-in is rich with bird and beaver activity, with the Nogies Creek Waterway an area of special conservation concern owing to its unique natural features and geology along with a host of fisheries and wildlife.
Embark on a tour of Lock 34 in Fenelon Falls, rich with sightseeing possibilities–from the multitude of locks locking through, to the walking street traffic of downtown. Grab a bite to eat before heading out on the lower reach of the lock, watching as the washout from the falls forms a terrain that’s fun to explore and photograph. Choose your own adventure and enjoy exploring the water to get the best view of the falls.
This family-friendly route allows you to make your own adventure and build spontaneous fun into your itinerary. Enjoy some fun at the Garnet Graham Beach Park before embarking on the shoreline of Cameron Lake, whose crystal-clear limestone shoreline invites you in. Paddle into the bay, turn south, and follow the lakeside section of the Victoria Rail Trail before enjoying a dip in the lake to cool off.
Depending on the conditions and distance, this route can be characterized as easy to intermediate, with options of paddling to Indian Point Peninsula (5km return trip), Grand Island (10km return trip), or Canal Mouth (14km return trip). Canoes are available for rent from Balsam Lake Provincial Park, with a launch from the beautiful beachfront.
Launching at Devil’s Lake in Kinmount, this route takes you through an amazing protected corridor of land, including the Kawartha Highlands to the east, Haliburton Highlands Water Trails to the northeast, Algonquin to the north, and the Muskokas on the west. Use the designated campsites and portages to make your way through this day-trip and multi-day trip experience.
This 14 km route takes you along the Burnt River, through seven portages and through the northern reaches of Kawartha Lakes county. Pull your watercraft out down the stream at a natural break in the shoreline and shuttle back to the park to explore the old milling equipment before heading back.
Explore the Canadian Canoe Culture
Admire the splendour of Kawartha Lakes waterways as you paddle through the perfect combination of scenery, wildlife, fishing, history and friendly rapids.
Whether you canoe or kayak, the authentic Canadian canoe experience is waiting to be explored on the Burnt River, Gull River and our many scenic lakes.
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