Explore the Waterways of Northumberland County
Whether you like to kayak or canoe, we have a perfect waterway for you. You'll find routes suitable for novices, families and avid enthusiasts. Northumberland is one of the only areas in Ontario that allows you to paddle through a lock and canal system (and even camp at a lock) - the Trent-Severn Waterway. Download a printable and accessible map highlighting beaches and paddling locations throughout the County.
COVID-19 Update: Please exercise physical and nautical distancing practices. For more detailed and up-to-date information, please visit Parks Canada for more information and watch this video to learn more about what you can expect as you travel the Trent-Severn Waterway.
Safe Paddling: Please visit the Parks Canada website for more information about safe paddling on the Trent-Severn Waterway. Please note, as indicated within this link, stand-up paddleboards (SUP) are prohibited in the lock system and are also not recommended on the waterway due to increased boat traffic.
A novice to intermediate, 3.5km to 7km loop (depending on launch point) with smaller islands to explore if you want to extend your trip.
Was Slaughter Island the site of a storied skirmish long ago?
This is good route for easy paddling and a great way to approach Crowe Bridge Conservation Area's stepped waterfalls (closed for 2021). Good mobility on the flat limestone rocks is required.
The route is about 5km round trip.
Paddling the Trent-Severn Waterway: Ferris Provincial Park to Hague's Reach, Lock 10, Trent River
This easy paddling route is available during Ferris Park's open season (mid May to mid Oct). It's about 5km round trip.
Kids will have fun trying to spot the Inukshuk built on the west bank.
Paddling the Trent-Severn Waterway: Lock 8 to Hickory Island Loop, Trent River
A novice to intermediate, 7.5km-11km loop (depending on launch point) with plenty of small islands and shorelines to explore.
Be on the lookout for a huge bald eagle's nest at Hickory.
Paddling the Trent-Severn Waterway: Lock 8 to Percy Reach, Trent River
An easy route approximately 3km round trip around the "reach" (where Samuel de Champlain paddled in 1615). Start at the boat launch at the lower side of Lock 8.
Possible sightings of splashing muskie and flapping swans will keep the family entertained.
Paddle the Trent-Severn Waterway: Trent Canal Locks 11/12, Campbellford
This 8km round trip takes you through the town of Campbellford where you'll pass the giant toonie structure. Before you paddle through a double-flight lock, order a pizza for delivery to Ferris Provincial Park's boat launch.
See the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge high above you at the base of Lock 11.
Paddle the Trent-Severn Waterway: Presqu'ile Provincial Park
With Presqu'ile Bay leading to the Murray Canal (built for boaters to safely reach the Trent-Severn Waterway from the west), you can have fun in the bay or head through the canal to begin your Trent-Severn Waterway journey.
Paddling the Trent-Severn Waterway: Keating-Hoards Natural Habitat / Hoards River
This 9km round trip paddle will take you along Hoards River and through swaths of water lilies. It's a great opportunity for birding and the views of farmland and natural habitats are peaceful and rewarding.
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