Kirkfield and Area

The Kirkfield area is rich in history, nature, and outdoor adventure.

Kirkfield is home to two of the most photographed sites in Kawartha Lakes, the Carden Plain Important Bird Area (IBA) and Lock 36 on the Trent-Severn Waterway, the second highest hydraulic lift lock in the world.

Bordered by the villages of Bolsover, Dalrymple, Lorneville, Seabright, and Victoria Road this area is popular amongst cyclists and features sites on the Kawarthas Northumberland Butter Tart Tour that you won't want to miss. With its mix of natural wonders and small-town charm, Kirkfield is the perfect place to explore, relax, and connect with the outdoors.

Home of the world’s second highest hydraulic lift lock, located at Lock 36 on the Trent-Severn Waterway.

Deemed as “The Hub of the Kawarthas,” Bobcaygeon is home to Lock 32, the first lock and most visited on the Trent-Severn Waterway..

The area is popular amongst cyclists and features sites on the Kawarthas Northumberland Butter Tart Tour.

Explore the history and culture that make this community unique on our Stories Map.

Things to do in Kirkfield & Area:

Carden Alvar Important Bird Area

The Carden Alvar is a rare type of grassland habitat that supports a unique assemblage of plant and animal species, many of which are provincially or nationally rare. It is home to the Carden Plain Important Bird Area.

Birding and the Carden Alvar

A forest of trees with the sun shining through

Explore Local Trails

Over 40km of trails traverse the Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands Park. This park is one of the most diverse and least disturbed natural areas found in Central Ontario.

Explore our Trail Directory

Kirkfield Lift Lock

Designed by Canadian engineer Richard Birdsail Rogers, the Kirkfield Lift Lock is the 2nd highest hydraulic lift lock in the world, with a lift of 15 metres (49ft.)

Learn More about the Kirkfield Lift Lock

Visit the Kirkfield Museum

Featuring beautiful stained-glass windows, the museum space and features artifacts and exhibitions that illuminate Kirkfield's heritage.

Learn More about the Museum

Quaker Oaks Farm

Experience the authentic, rural, whimsical charm of Quaker Oaks Farm. Browse the roadside shop that features an eclectic mix of great food, art, crafts, gifts and souvenirs.

Visit Quaker Oaks Farm

Balsam Lake Dry Stone Walls

Built by George Laidlaw in the 1860's, three kilometres of these walls still stand and are visible along both sides of Balsam Lake Drive.

Learn More about the Dry Stone Walls

Fall Colours Scenic Drives

Take the North West scenic route through Kirkfield for beautiful views of the waterways and lakes of the region. This route is one you don't want to miss.

Explore the Scenic Driving Routes

Paddle in Kirkfield

With its many lakes, rivers, and access to the Trent-Severn Waterway, Kirkfield is a paddler’s paradise. Explore calm waters perfect for a leisurely canoe or kayak, or set out on longer routes that take you through scenic shorelines, wetlands, and even the historic Kirkfield Lift Lock.

Explore Paddling Routes in Kinmount

Camp at Balsam Lake

Camping at Balsam Lake Provincial Park is the perfect way to experience the great outdoors in Kawartha Lakes. With more than 500 campsites ranging from waterfront and walk-in eco-sites to full-service options with electricity, there’s a spot for every style of camper.

Provincial Parks and Conservation Areas

Stay in Kirkfield and Area

The Kirkfield area offers a range of welcoming places to stay, from cozy motels and family-run inns to lakeside cottage rentals and campgrounds surrounded by nature. Whether you’re looking for a simple place to rest after exploring the Kirkfield Lift Lock, a week-long retreat on the water, or a camping adventure under the stars at Balsam Lake Provincial Park, you’ll find accommodations that bring you close to both the beauty and history of the region.

Explore Accommodations in Kirkfield

Eat in Kirkfield and Area

Kirkfield and the surrounding area serve up hearty, small-town flavour with a mix of family-run diners, cozy cafés, and casual restaurants. Whether you’re grabbing breakfast before a day on the water, enjoying comfort food with the locals, or stopping for a sweet treat after exploring the Kirkfield Lift Lock or nearby trails, you’ll find friendly service and plenty of delicious options to satisfy your appetite.

Explore Restaurants in Kirkfield

Experience the Best of Butter Tarts

The Kawarthas Northumberland Butter Tart Tour combines dozens of stops offering some of the best butter tarts in Ontario into one fun-filled, family-friendly tour. This self-guided tour runs year-round and offers over 50 stops to choose from.

Plan a day-trip or take a full weekend to taste-test your way through Kawartha Lakes. On land or by boat, there are endless ways to experience this tasty tour of the region.

Explore the Buttertart Tour

Helpful Links:

Arts & Heritage Trail

Trip Planner

Nature Conservancy Canada

Coboconk, Norland & Area Chamber of Commerce