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Where to SUP in Peterborough and the Kawarthas
We conferred with the experts at Wild Rock and compiled a list of some of the best places in the Peterborough area to enjoy a good SUP session. This region is very fortunate to have some pretty stunning bodies of water, so grab a board and go out and play!
There are several places to put your SUP in on Chemong Lake as it is dotted with inconspicuous boat launches. The most obvious locations are Jones' Beach in Bridgenorth; the Rotary Park boat launch across from the Sip and Dip on the Ennismore side; the Ennismore Waterfront Park and the Selwyn Beach conservation area.
Chemong Lake can be a challenge with the wind at times. If you are not overly experienced, stay close to shore on a windy day and check the direction of the wind. There's always one side of the Causeway that is calmer than the other. Chemong Lake is one of the shallowest lakes in the area which means the temperature is great for swimming but steer clear of the weeds. The bonus, there are lots of fish viewing opportunities from the SUP’s eye view.
Stoney Lake is a sparkling gem with gorgeous islands. It really is something out of a fairy tale. There are way more rocks than weeds - hence the name Stoney Lake. This can be a challenge for boaters if they veer off the channel but great for paddle boarders who can glide over the underwater obstacles.
The issue with Stoney Lake is its lack of public access whether it be small boat launches or public beaches, you won't find much. Stoney is mainly private marinas and private cottages. You may be able to put in at one of the marinas in McCracken’s Landing but that is if you can find parking. Your best bet is Quarry Bay Beach on Upper Stoney.
Sandy Lake is our slice of the Caribbean in the Kawarthas. Sandy Lake is a marl lake which means it has a limestone base with a carbonate-rich mud or mudstone (marl) and contains variable amounts of clays and silt. When the sun hits the marl, the lake shines back a stunning turquoise colour.
Sandy Beach is the place to put in and it is fully equipped with plenty of parking. It can also be windy at times but you really can’t beat this picture perfect lake.
Check the Trent-Severn Waterway notices before putting your paddle in anywhere on the Otonabee River. If the water levels are high and the currents are strong it can be dangerous. You want to avoid anywhere near a dam. The Lakefield Beach and Campground is a safe spot to put it but we advise heading north on the river around the point of the campground. There is also an area on the west side of the campground near the boat docks that is a quiet place to put in. This spot is prime viewing for wildlife as you can paddle past the Marshland Conservation Area.
Located near Highway 36 between Buckhorn and Bobcaygeon, Nogies Creek is less than 45 minutes from downtown Peterborough. This is a great spot in true Canadian Cottage Country for a paddle.
You’ll find an access is off Bass Lake Road off of highway 36 as you head towards Bobcaygeon. There is a convenient place to park and launch your SUP from a shallow gravel beach. Enjoy scenic views dotted with islands, tall pines, and rocky cliffs.
Bottle Lake in the Kawartha Highlands
Bottle lake will require a Kawartha Highlands day pass but you will be rewarded with a beautiful and very accessible lake. Bottle creek is also a highlight to paddle as it empties into Bottle Lake and it is very easy to paddle up it as the current is mild.
The Trent-Severn Waterway – Between Lock 22 and the Lift Lock
This is a calm tranquil stretch of the Trent-Severn that is great for paddling. If you cross the Parkhill road bridge heading out of town, known to Parks Canada as the Warsaw Swing Bridge, there is a small parking area immediately to the left. This is a nice easy area to put in. You can travel north up to Trent University passing the Peterborough Golf and Country Club, Trent’s nature trails and paddle through the campus of the university. Alternatively you can start at the University and paddle all the way down to the Lift Lock.
You’ll be surprised how much wildlife you will see in the city on the canal – turtles, fish, birds, even minks.
Little Lake in the heart of downtown Peterborough is a lovely spot in the city to paddle, especially if you are wanting to mix paddling with a cold drink from a local downtown establishment. The bonus, Wild Rock is just up the road where you can get kitted out with all the gear you need!
You can put your paddle board in at The Silver Bean Café, Del Crary Park, Roger’s Cove or Beavermead Park.
