Whether you own a cottage or a trailer in one of the many trailer parks or you’ve booked a one time vacation, the Kawartha Lakes region of Ontario is an excellent area to spend your summer months.
The only problem is, there are few open stretches of shoreline that are not private property. If you’re active, you may bore quickly of the limited space you’re actually allowed to be in. You may find yourself yearning for adventure. Or, at least yearning for some kind of distracting family outing.
Fortunately, there are plenty of places in the area to discover and explore. You just need to know where to look.
Over the years, we’ve come across several gems in the area. Here are 29 things to experience on your next visit to the Kawarthas…
Burleigh Falls
Relatively unnoticed until the summer of 2020 when the area was overwhelmed by hoards from the Greater Toronto Area seeking relief from the pandemic restrictions.
For much of the summer in 2020, Burleigh Falls was actually closed off to tourist traffic. The waterfall is just below lock 28 of the Trent Severn Waterway and is accessed by a simple community park with no facilities.
Choose your timing and respect the local community and Burleigh Falls will be a pleasant visit. The waterfall is not high but certainly has some raw power.
This short section of water connects Lovesick Lake up stream to Stony Lake down below. The location is 33 kilometres north of Peterborough and 38 KM east of Bobcaygeon.
Burleigh Falls [Video]
Big Island
If you’re vacationing in the Kawarthas, it’s nearly always assumed that you have access to a boat of some sort. Pigeon Lake is the most densely populated lake in the area and connects to the busy hub of Bobcaygeon.
At the heart of Pigeon is a rather large, undeveloped and forested island. Until 2015, this island was privately owned. However, over 1,000 acres were donated to the Kawartha Land Trust to protect and allow recreational access.
Also dubbed Boyd or Chiminis Island, this is the largest undeveloped island in the Kawarthas. There are two docking platforms for small craft. A set of trails circles much of the island. There are no facilities.
What I always find shocking about this island is the complete peace found along the trails. This is in stark contrast to the motorboat superhighway just a short distance away in any direction.
Furnace Falls
Furnace Falls is another short but picturesque waterfall. Located east of Kinmount on Highway 28 (going toward Gooderham and Bancroft), the waterfall on the Irondale River can be seen from the highway. There is a small park with picnic tables, garbage cans and pit toilets.
Furnace Falls [Video]
Egan Chutes Provincial Park
Keeping with the waterfall theme, Egan Chutes Provincial Park is a must visit. However, it’s a bit of a drive. Located on the York River, about 15 KM east of Bancroft, it’s over an hour’s drive from Bobcaygeon. However, it’s a beautiful drive and there’s lots to see in Bancroft, as well.
Egan Chutes is a non-operating provincial park. This means there are absolutely no facilities. In fact, there’s hardly a sign. You need to look hard for a narrow two track road going off to the left just before crossing the river. From there, it’s a tight fit to a cramped parking area. Like Burleigh Falls, choose you timing wisely.
From the parking lot, a trail runs along the river to the base of the waterfall. If you cross the bridge, there is another trail that travels down the opposite side of the river. This trail goes beyond to a second waterfall.
Egan Chutes [Video]
Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park
The largest Ontario provincial park south of Algonquin, Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park is indeed huge. However, for day-use purposes, you really need just focus on the signature site on highway 36 just outside of Buckhorn.
Not along ago, this was free to visit with just a basic parking lot and unmarked trail. However, in recent years, the location is gained considerably in popularity. This popularity was largely due to a renegade river tubing outfit out of Buckhorn that was ultimately shutdown by Ontario Parks.
This is a nice spot for a short walk through the forest. This is also a nice spot to do a bit of lazy river tubing. Ultimately, this is a perfect spot to cool down in some fresh flowing water in the heat of summer.
The trail ends at what is almost too short to be called a waterfall. The smooth rock floor of the river at this point makes it easy to wade out and take a seat at the end of what amounts to about a two foot waterfall.
If you really want to cool off quickly, simply pop into the clear waters of the Mississauga River about 20 feet from the parking lot.
There is a parking fee here through one of the MNR’s automated machines. Keep in mind that these machines don’t start operating until 9am. Also, if you pay for the day at any one of these machines, it’s good for any other provincial park in Ontario for the rest of that day. You could, in fact, pay for parking in the morning at Kawartha Highlands then travel up to Algonquin for the rest of the day with no extra admission fees.
Kawartha Highlands [Video]
Lock 34 In Fenelon Falls
There are a lot of locks along the Trent Severn Waterway. Peterborough’s famous hydraulic locks are the most unique. But, Fenelon Falls are some of the most dramatic.
The lower doors are located beneath the main street car bridge. There is a walkway beneath the bridge, as well, adjacent to the canal. With the lift height of 24 feet, the maelstrom created when the water lets out in this semi-enclosed area is quite a sight. 24 feet might not sound like much of a drop. But, compared to nearby Bobcaygeon (a five foot drop) it is nothing short of mammoth.
Along with that entertainment, the network of walkways along the locks and beside the ‘falls’ is probably the best in the area. Adding to the fun is the crooked path boats must take and the strong current of the Fenelon River. It can be quite a sight to watch rookie houseboat pilots navigate these waters – especially with a good cross wind.
There is a row of perfectly placed restaurants and shops just off the locks with plenty of area to sit and relax. The best part is that you needn’t pay to park your car – I believe parking fees are outlawed in the town…
Peterborough Lift Lock
Not just famous to this region but famous to the world! The Peterborough Lift Lock is the world’s highest hydraulic lift lock. Built in 1904, Lock 21 of the Trent Severn lifts vessels 65 feet in what amounts to large metal bath tubs. The marvel was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1979.
Peterborough Lift Lock Cruise
Of course, the best way to experience the hydraulic lift lock is on board a cruise boat. The Peterborough Lift Lock Cruises are simply an outstanding experience and worth every penny.
The boat leaves from Del Crary Park in downtown Peterborough and does an out and back to the lift lock. Along the way, the boat goes through a more traditional style lock that has a 12 foot lift. Yes, you do go up the big one, cruise around for a few minutes then head back down again.
Sightseeing cruises will cost you $30 for an adult and more for trips that include lunch and dinner. But, as I said, this is very much worth it.
Peterborough Riverview Park And Zoo
The best bang for the buck in Peterborough. There is no admission fee to the zoo and parking is free. The only thing that will cost is a ride on the miniature train. But, that fee is minimal and the train ride is quite lengthy.
The zoo features a number of exotic animals. The adjoining playground is a wonderland for kids. If you’re looking for a shady place to enjoy a picnic lunch, well, you’ll find that here too.
Riverview Park is located on Water Street, shortly after entering the city from Lakefield/Buckhorn. Keep an eye for the entrance to Trent University and it’ll be shortly after that.
Lindsay Train Park
It’s actually Lindsay Memorial Park but the attraction is the vintage train display near the entrance. This is usually a stop either on the way to or from Bobcaygeon. We pick up food in town and head to the park to eat. The kids love the trains and the nearby playground.
I recall from my college days in Lindsay back in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s that some of these train cars were located at other spots in town. The steam engine was stored inside an old factory/warehouse that is no longer standing. Back in 1993, I actually lived directly across the road and there were no trains at Memorial Park at that time.
The park, as a whole, is quite large and very well shaded. There are public washrooms and ample picnic tables. On our last visit in the summer of 2020, it looks like the town has installed a frisbee golf course throughout the park.
Lindsay Train Park [Video]
Wolf Island Provincial Park
One of the few places on this list that I have yet to visit. But, that will all change this year. Wolf Island is located between Lower Buckhorn Lake and Lovesick Lake between Buckhorn and Burleigh Falls.
This non-operating provincial park can be accessed only by water. You can arrive by boat from either Buckhorn or Burleigh Falls.
Bass Lake Road Beach
This one’s not for everyone. But, if you want to get away from the crowd and feel like you’re part of nature, the drive up Bass Lake Road serves just this purpose. Off highway 36 just before the Nogies Creek bridge (Pirate’s Cove is on the other side of the bridge), the road starts paved but soon turns to gravel, narrowing the further you go.
Along the way, there is definitely some natural landscape to take in. The dammed up section of Nogies Creek intertwines with the road. If you’re a paddler, you’ll spot the pair of launch points along the road. The creek is more like a slow moving river here and is excellent for kayaks and canoes.
At the end of the road, there is a small sandy beach on Bass Lake. You can swim here and it’s an excellent spot for a summer sunset. However, space is at a premium and two car loads is probably close to maximum.
This is your area to spot wildlife. You will often see deer and other woodland critters along the road. Before and after the high tourist season, moose, bear and even lynx/bobcat can be spotted here. Along the water, there are ample turtles, including some pretty hefty snappers. On Nogies near the first canoe launch, there has been a family of bald eagle nesting for the past few years.
BRING BUG SPRAY!
Sandy Lake Beach
Just past the locks, restaurants and shops in Buckhorn on Lakehurst Road (County Road 37) is Sandy Lake Beach. The sandy, shallow area of the lake makes it like a mini Wasaga Beach. Unfortunately, like Wasaga, it can get pretty crowded on a hot summer day.
Youngtown Rock and Roll Museum
Here’s one we’ve yet to visit. In the big city of Omemee, there is a museum dedicated to Neil Young and rock and roll in general. More specifically, it celebrates the music of the 1950’s, 1960’s and 1970’s.
Located at 45 King Street East, the museum is open only Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 5:30pm. Admission in 2020 was $7 per adult with kids getting in for free.
Omemee is located off the bottom of Pigeon Lake on Highway 7. Peterborough is 23 kilometres to the east and Lindsay is 20 KM to the northwest.
Lindsay Drive In
This is a gem. This is just a Plain Jane traditional drive-in theatre with a traditional drive-in concession/washroom building and two screens. It’s simply perfect for a night out in the Kawarthas.
Located on Pigeon Lake Road, not far east of highway 36 and the edge of Lindsay. It’s about a 20 minute drive from Bobcaygeon, whether you go by Pigeon Lake Road, Highway 36 or through Dunsford.
Highland Cinemas In Kinmount
This was supposed to be on our summer 2020 list but COVID-19 got in the way of that. There are 550 theatre seats in this inconspicuous complex. This is nearly double the 300 residents that actually live in Kinmount.
Owned and operated by Keith Stata, the theatres are connected to his house just outside of Kinmount. There is also a memorabilia museum on site. Kinmount is located 29 KM north of Bobcaygeon.
Kinmount Rail Station And Museum
Unlike many small town rail stations in Southern Ontario, the one in Kinmount is original and not a replica. Built in 1876 along the Burnt River, the station is adjacent to a historic sawmill. The park that encompasses these two locations is appropriately dubbed the Austin Sawmill Park. This is also home to the Kinmount Farmer’s Market every Saturday in the summer.
Kawartha Dairy Ice Cream
It’s doubtful if you’ve spent more than a few minutes in the area that you don’t know of the Bobcaygeon Kawartha Dairy Ice Cream store. Located at 89 Prince Street, this is the head office, production plant and retail store for this locally famous ice cream maker.
Kawartha Dairy was founded in 1937, over 80 years ago. You can eat on site but we prefer to drive a block or so away and park along the control dam side of things in the downtown area.
Kawartha Country Wines
Fueling our campfires for years, Kawartha Country Wines is a must-visit in the area. Located just a few kilometres out of Buckhorn on highway 36 (15 minutes from Bobcaygeon), the winery specialized in an array of fruit wines made in house.
In recent years, they’ve amped up their apple cider line. This stuff is simply delicious. But, if you’re not sure what you think you might want, no problem. Tasting is always free and these great folks don’t mind if you try a bit of the whole menu.
Although most seasonal visitors like us associate Kawartha Wines with the summertime, they are open all year round. There’s more than just booze, too. The retail shop is full of locally produced food and crafts.
Selwyn Beach Conservation Area
On your way from Buckhorn to Peterborough, Selwyn Beach Conservation Area sits quietly off the highway on the shores of Chemong Lake. This is a day-use park with no fees.
The beach is small but nice with picnic facilities. There is a short network of trails on site. There is also a boat launch with access to Chemong Lake.
Pigeon Lake Sandbar
Becoming more and more popular each year, the sandbar is located along the western shore of Pigeon Lake, not far south of Big Island. It’s simply a soccer field sized shallow section of lake with a soft sandy bottom.
This is not a beach but just a sandy section where cottagers park their boats to frolic in the water. Be warned, I did come away with a nasty case of swimmer’s itch after a morning visit this past summer. Not horrible, the next day it’s like your body was attacked by black fly or deer fly bites. It goes away…
Boating To Pigeon Lake Sandbar [Video]
Kawartha Settlers Village
Another that we haven’t been to, yet. But, with the kids getting a bit older, this year might be the year. The Kawartha Settlers Village is located in Bobcaygeon at 85 Dunn Street.
The museum is open from the start of May until the end of September, daily from 10-4. Once a family farm, there are now over 20 historic homes and buildings based on an era from 1830 to 1935.
Settlers Village was established in 1990. Admission is $7 for adults with Sunday entrance by donation.
Bobcaygeon Farmer’s Market
If you’re into farmer’s markets, there are several in the area. We’ll through many, starting with Bobcaygeon. This one is located at the arena/fair grounds on Mansfield Street. It’s free to enter and open every Saturday morning in season.
Lakefield Farmer’s Market
The Thursday morning schedule makes this one unique. Lakefield Farmer’s Market is located just off the main street at the edge of the downtown. It is open every Thursday from 9am to 1pm from Victoria Day to Thanksgiving.
Lakefield is 14 KM north of downtown Peterborough. The town is home to Lock 26 of the Trent Severn Waterway.
Lindsay Farmer’s Market
Another Saturday market, Lindsay’s opens early at 7am and shuts down at 1pm. It’s open from the first Saturday in May until the last Saturday in October.
This market is set up adjacent to the Victoria Park Armoury on Victoria Avenue between Kent Street and Peel Street, on the western edge of downtown. The market was established in 1859, making it one of the longest running farmer’s markets in Ontario.
Why Lindsay? After the market, check out the shops on the main drag and take in the sights along the Scugog River. The locks on the Trent Severn in town are unique in that they are not machine run. Two operates spin a rotor to open and close the lock doors.
Fenelon Falls Farmer’s Market
Unique because it’s open two days in the prime of summer. The Fenelon Falls Farmer’s Market is open Friday’s from 9am-2pm from May to Thanksgiving. It is also open Saturday’s from 9-2 in July and August.
The market is located at the corner of Bond and John Street, a block west of Colborne Street and two blocks north of the locks.
Garnet Graham Beach Park
People visit Fenelon for the downtown shops and to watch the boats at the locks. But, there’s also a decent beach just a block or two away from all that.
Located at 98 Francis Street West, on the shores of Cameron Lake, there is a sandy beach, splash pad and public washrooms. A waterfront walking path can take you to and from the locks and the downtown.
Victoria Rail Trail
The Victoria Rail Trail is a multi-use trail that runs 55KM from Bethany in the south to Kinmount in the north. Along the way, it runs through Lindsay, Fenelon Falls, Cameron, Iron Bridge and Burnt River.
Kawartha Trans Canada Trail
Another rail trail, this one runs from Manilla in the west to just outside Peterborough in the east. The total distance is 53.8KM. Like the Victoria Trail, this one also runs through Lindsay.
One of the features is the Doube’s Trestle Bridge located east of Omemee. This former train trestle is 200 metres in length and stands 29 metres above the valley floor below.
