2026 Events
Contents
April 2026
Saturday, Apr 4, 2026
Charleston Lake hike: Sandstone Island and Shoreline Trails
Join us to hike by interesting geological structures, caves and great shoreline views. We will cover 10 km (intermediate difficulty).
If icy, the trail can be treacherous, so bring your “icers” please! Also bring water, snacks, and lunch.
Saturday, April 11, 2026
Hiking from Verona, K&P Trail
We will walk along the K&P trail towards Harrowsmith. On our return, we will have the opportunity to visit Food Less Travelled for lunch or perhaps some shopping in Verona.
Distance: approximately 9 km, with the ability for participants to turn back early as desired
Saturday, April 18, 2026
Mississagua Creek Paddle
Enjoy this classic spring creek paddle with tea/coffee, etc. provided afterwards. Depending on water levels in the creek, we will either paddle up the Mississagua Creek to the headwaters at Buck Lake or we will paddle downstream out into the marshlands and backwaters of Mosquito and Benson Lakes. A full day paddle – bring a lunch and water. Some optional hiking to points of interest. As the first paddle of the season, protective gear and cold water clothing may be required depending on water temperatures.
Sunday, April 19, 2026 1:30pm – 4:30pm
CCC Speaker Event & Social
John Etches “Rock the Canoe Route” and Bring your Rocks for Identification
What do rocks have to do with your canoe trip? EVERYTHING!! Canada boasts more lakes than the rest of the world combined, largely as a result of our country’s geological history. Join us to gain a deeper understanding of the where and the why of the diverse paddling opportunities and landscapes that we have come to enjoy here in Ontario.
The presentation will be followed by time to socialize and an opportunity to identify some of your own rocks.
Fri Apr 24All day
Hike at Sheffield Conservation Area
This beauty is nestled within the Canadian Shield. This can be a challenging hike, terrain is rugged and uneven at times, but the views hopefully make it worthwhile. The snow should be gone and the leaves not yet present, which will make for a wide open landscape. Wear proper footwear like hiking boots or hiking shoes. Hiking poles, water, snacks, lunch, tick repellent, sunscreen are things you will want to bring. Check yourself for ticks during and after the hike. The hike will be approx. 6km. Intermediate level.
Sun Apr 26All day
Paddling Verona to Petworth, Napanee RIver
This is a leisurely paddle from Verona Lake to Petworth on the Napanee River. The distance is about 17 km. We will go with the flow down Hardwood Creek to Napanee Lake and then the Napanee River. A shuttle is involved on this paddle. Protective gear and cold water clothing may be required depending on water temperatures.
May 2026
Saturday May 2, 2026
Leo Lake to Cranberry Lake or Upper Brewer’s Lock
We will explore some new shorelines of small bays connected to larger lakes with Island shore or peninsula for routes of approximately 12-17km. Depending on wind strength and direction, some waves and challenging paddling may be experienced on the open water crossings, suitable for intermediate or advanced paddlers.
Depending on wind the lunch location will either be on an Island in Cranberry Lake or at Upper Brewer’s Lock. Short carry-overs will be required. Suggested that kayakers wear skirts and protective gear and cold water clothing (drysuit or wetsuit) may be required depending on water temperatures.
Sunday May 10, 2026
Mother’s Day Paddle: Verona and Howes Lake
Enjoy exploring a new route with a family friendly paddle on quiet waters, as we paddle the pristine spring-fed freshwater lake, Howes Lake. Distance is approximately 10-12 km, depending on weather conditions, ability of the paddlers. Lunch on shore.
Protective gear and cold water clothing (wetsuit or drysuit) may be required depending on water temperatures.
Thursday May 14, 2026
Glenora Ferry to Picton
Join us for a paddle in one of our more western areas, paddling from the Glenora Ferry area to Picton Harbour. This is approximately 20 km with one small open water area where the Ferry crosses. There will be a midway leg stretch at a public boat launch along the way with lunch at the Lighthouse Restaurant picnic tables. This is for intermediate paddlers only. Protective gear and cold water clothing (wetsuit or drysuit) may be required depending on water temperatures. There may be an option for a shorter paddle. Parking is limited to 8 cars and carpooling is encouraged if possible.
Saturday May 23, 2026
Seeley’s Bay to Jones Falls
This is a round-trip paddle on a lovely section of Rideau River from Seeley’s Bay, passing by Rock Dunder on the way to Jones Falls. There will be a lift over into Dean’s Pond. Picnic by the locks. Depending on wind conditions, there may be significant waves on Whitefish Lake in which case sea-kayaks are recommended. 18 km full day paddle, Intermediate level.
Sunday May 24, 2026
Lower Salmon River, Whitewater
Consider joining for a day on the Lower Salmon River from Roblin to the Kingsford Centennial Park (~13km). The put in is just over 30min from Kingston. Some club members have paddled the Lower Salmon often over the years. Water levels can vary but expect the run to be suitable for beginner WW paddlers (Class 1 – 2) with whitewater kayaks and canoes equipped with added flotation.
There are two mandatory portages to avoid Dams. There are numerous eddies on both sides to practice or learn eddy turns and peel-outs. The water temperature may still be low so consider wearing wet suits or dry suits as for your comfort level. Regular whitewater safety equipment is required (helmets). Numbers will be limited and a shuttle will be required.
Saturday May 30, 2026
Gould Lake Paddle
Join for a paddle of Gould Lake, with lovely Canadian Shield views and Conservation land along some of the shoreline. The water is clean and there is a sandy beach at the canoe/kayak launch area. Wildlife sightings are likely. We will paddle for approximately 14 km, pausing for swims and a picnic lunch. This gem is not far from Kingston and makes for a lovely day outing.
June 2026
Tuesday Jun 2, 2026
Circumnavigate Hill Island, St Lawrence River
Join me for a paddle circumnavigating the beautiful Hill Island.
This is a full day trip with total distance of approximately 18 km. Strong current will be encountered. High winds, big waves are likely to be encountered as well; therefore spray skirt is strongly recommended in addition to other safety accessories as required by law and regulations.
This trip is for expert paddlers only.
Number of participants will be restricted to 9 maximum.
Sunday Jun 7, 2026
Desert Lake/Mitchell Creek/Birch Lake Paddle
Join us to paddle up Desert Lake to Mitchell Creek and into Birch Lake. There are a couple of good swim spots if wanted. Most likely we will see and hear loons among other wildlife. Be prepared for possible wind on the way back. Intermediate paddle of approximately 16 km. There may be an opportunity to visit Arkon Lake or Birch Lake lookout.
Saturday Jun 13, 2026
The other Otter Lake
We’ll explore the “other” Otter Lake, NOT the one that borders Frontenac Provincial Park. Approximately 12 km.
Otter Lake is a freshwater lake located just off Highway 15 near the village of Portland, Ontario, within the broader Rideau Lakes area of Eastern Ontario. The lake is accessible from the highway and is surrounded by a mix of private properties and natural shoreline typical of the region.
Sunday Jun 14, 2026
New Members Boathouse Paddle
To welcome new members to the Club, the Board will be hosting a New Members Paddle at the boathouse. New members are invited to take part in a guided short paddle in the inner harbour. You may use your own boat or use Club boats and equipment at no cost. We will paddle from the boathouse. The route will depend on wind conditions, but the total distance will be under 5 km.
The paddle will be followed by a pizza lunch at the boathouse. It’s a way for new members to get to know the boathouse and environs, and for the Board to get to know the new members.
This trip is suitable for all levels of paddlers. However, each participant should have some knowledge of paddling, preferably having taken basic paddling lesson(s) from the club or elsewhere.
Thursday Jun 18, 2026
Explore Devil Lake
We will explore this beautiful big lake that offers clear and clean water and a good selection of islands. No doubt we will see loons, eagles and other wildlife. There are some good swim spots for the swimmers or for those needing a break. The lake has relatively low boat traffic, which is good for paddlers. However, the boat launch is very busy and traffic flies by. Be Careful. Help each other. The plan is to paddle approximately 15km, however it will depend on the group and on the wind. Suitable for intermediate paddlers, comfortable in windy and strong wave action. Hope you can join the adventure.
Saturday Jun 20, 2026
Paddle Napanee River South
Join in for a relaxing paddle on the Napanee River going downstream for approximately 6 to 8 km and returning. The total paddle will be 12-16 km. This trip is suitable for all levels of paddlers, with lots of bird watching along the way( binoculars are recommended). There is an option to stay for lunch at the Waterfront Restaurant upon return.
Sunday Jun 28, 2026
Solstice Special Boathouse Paddle and BBQ
Celebrate the passing of the summer solstice with an evening paddle starting at the boathouse, with a shoreline BBQ destination near Milton Island. This paddle is geared towards newer paddlers who have completed an introductory paddling course offered by the Club or elsewhere. Members are invited to join this special boathouse paddle which will allow those requiring use of the club boats to do so at no cost.
One-way paddle with car shuttle, approximately 8 km, with return paddle of 16km.
High winds may be experienced on Lake Ontario, and if forecast trip participation will be limited to intermediate and advanced paddlers.
Tuesday Jun 30, 2026
Circumnavigate Howe Island, St Lawrence River
Join me for a paddle circumnavigating Howe Island.
This is a full day trip with a total distance of approximately 33 km. High winds and big waves are likely to be encountered; therefore a spray skirt is strongly recommended in addition to other safety accessories as required by law and regulations.
This trip is for expert paddlers only. The number of participants will be restricted to 5 maximum.
s will be restricted to 5 maximum.
July 2026
Friday Jul 3, 2026
Palmer Rapids “Play weekend”
An event not to be missed. The perfect spot to practice your whitewater skills, learn new ones, jump off piano rock or just hang out at the beach. Mix with paddlers of all skill levels; watch, learn and, above all, have fun. Come camp for the weekend or for a day. If conditions are optimal we hope to get a group to paddle the Lower Madawaska River. The water temperature may still be low so consider wearing wet suits or dry suits as for your comfort level. Regular whitewater safety equipment is required if paddling, including PFDs, helmets, bailer, and throw rope.
Saturday Jul 4, 2026
Palmer Rapids “Play weekend”
An event not to be missed. The perfect spot to practice your whitewater skills, learn new ones, jump off piano rock or just hang out at the beach. Mix with paddlers of all skill levels; watch, learn and, above all, have fun. Come camp for the weekend or for a day. If conditions are optimal we hope to get a group to paddle the Lower Madawaska River. The water temperature may still be low so consider wearing wet suits or dry suits as for your comfort level. Regular whitewater safety equipment is required if paddling, including PFDs, helmets, bailer, and throw rope.
Sunday Jul 5, 2026
Palmer Rapids “Play weekend”
An event not to be missed. The perfect spot to practice your whitewater skills, learn new ones, jump off piano rock or just hang out at the beach. Mix with paddlers of all skill levels; watch, learn and, above all, have fun. Come camp for the weekend or for a day. If conditions are optimal we hope to get a group to paddle the Lower Madawaska River. The water temperature may still be low so consider wearing wet suits or dry suits as for your comfort level. Regular whitewater safety equipment is required if paddling, including PFDs, helmets, bailer, and throw rope.
Thursday Jul 16, 2026
Explore Devil Lake
Let’s explore the many coves and islands of Devil Lake. This beautiful body of water is 145’ at its deepest with clear, clean waters. We can search out the resident Bald Eagle and Osprey families and be guaranteed a view of the many loon pairs. Wind and weather depending, we will explore the many shorelines and islands, either north or south, or maybe both. We will be stopping at my favourite swimming hole(s) for a swim and cool off.
This is an intermediate paddle 12-18km and you should be comfortable in windy and strong wave action.
Past Events 2026
January 2026
Sunday, January 4th – Ski/Hike/Snowshoe the K&P trail
We will be starting just north of White Lake Road near Hwy #38 where there is a parking area that can park about 14 vehicles. Enjoy wetland, lake views and open scenery. The distance of this hike, ski or snowshoe is 6.5 km one way for a round trip of 13 km.
Participants should plan to meet in the parking lot in Verona where Bell Rock Road joins Hwy #38 at 9:30am to caravan to the trailhead.
Saturday January 10th – Ski/Hike/Snowshoe the
East End Frontenac Park
We start by parking at the end of Clear Lake Road (junction of Christmas Lane). Hike on a dirt road for 3 km to the park gate. Another kilometer gets us to Salmon Lake Loop. Here we will head for Hemlock Lake loop (1 km to get to it and 5 km on the loop). The trail goes through mature deciduous trees and old abandoned farm fields and is considered easy to moderate. For a total of approximately 15 km.
Saturday Jan 17, 2026 – Gould Lake Hike or Snowshoe
We are lucky to have the rugged Gould Lake trails so close to Kingston. At this time, we will have scenic views unimpeded by tree leaves. However, trails may be muddy, icy, or snow covered. Please wear appropriate footwear (icers/snowshoes if needed), and consider bringing poles. We will hike either 8.5 km on the Ridgewalk Rideau loop or approx 6.5 km on the east side trails (Wagon/Tom Dixon).
Sunday Jan 25, 2026 – Murphy’s Point Provincial Park Hike or Ski – RESCHEDULED TO FEB 1
Murphy’s Point is sufficiently north to frequently boast excellent conditions when they are less than ideal locally. There is a variety of groomed trails for classic and skate skiing, plus a scenic back country route, together with warm-up huts. We will do about 12 km of classic skiing and 7 km of backcountry (optional). There is a park fee per car unless you have an annual pass. Please google reservations.ontarioparks.com.
Saturday Jan 31, 2026 – Blue Mountain Hike/Ski/Snowshoe
This trip is aimed to be a combination of trail and off-trail skiing/snowshoeing at Blue Mountain on the south side of Charleston Lake. The hiking trails leading to and from Blue Mountain are great for skiing and snowshoeing, with enough snow permitting, and there are opportunities to stray from the trail to take in other points of interest. The ascent to the top of Blue Mountain is challenging and the view from the top wonderful. This may be a hike depending on the amount of snow.
February 2026
Sunday February 1, 2026 – Murphy’s Point Provincial Park Hike or Ski
Murphy’s Point is sufficiently north to frequently boast excellent conditions when they are less than ideal locally. There is a variety of groomed trails for classic and skate skiing, plus a scenic back country route, together with warm-up huts. We will do about 12 km of classic skiing and 7 km of backcountry (optional). There is a park fee per car unless you have an annual pass. Please google reservations.ontarioparks.com.
Saturday Feb 7, 2026 – Frontenac Park Swamp Hop
This trip has been a club favourite for decades. It starts at the trail centre of Frontenac Park and weaves across a myriad of frozen swamps to the south and east. The terrain is very scenic. Distance and difficulty can be adjusted for the participants, but generally significant hills can be avoided. The trip is suitable for skis or snowshoes. Depending on levels of interest, multiple trip groups can be organized, including separate trips for skiing and snowshoeing. If conditions aren’t suitable for skiing/snowshoeing, a hike will be substituted. Park fees apply and you get a Daily Vehicle Permit either online or at the Park Office to be assured of a parking spot.
Saturday Feb 14, 2026 – Ski/Snowshoe north of Opinicon Road
Assuming suitable snow and frozen waterbodies, this will be a backcountry ski/snowshoe trip that occasionally follows part of the Rideau Trail. We have done this trip and variants of it in past years. The terrain is rugged and very scenic. The route will take advantage of frozen lakes and ponds where possible for easier travel. Still, there will be about 150m of climbing/descending over the total distance of about 9 km. Participants should have experience with backcountry skiing. If there are sufficient numbers of snowshoers and suitable weather, a separate trip during the week for snowshoers could be possible.
Saturday Feb 28, 2026 – Ski / Snowshoe Skycroft Trails
Join me exploring the many trails north of Skycroft campground near Opinicon Lake. They offer a network of routes, including access to the Rideau Trail. The area features rugged terrain, wooded ridges, swamps, and stream crossings providing varied experiences from easy to challenging with scenic views. The snow conditions and the participants will affect the route and how far we go.
March 2026
March 4, 2026 – Ski or snowshoe to Arkon Lake
Assuming suitable snow and frozen waterbodies, this will be a backcountry ski/snowshoe trip that will lead to the south side of Arkon Lake before heading to the lookout over Birch Lake. The terrain is rugged and very scenic. The route will take advantage of frozen lakes and ponds where possible for easier travel.
Saturday Mar 7, 2026 Frontenac Park Ski/hike
The morning ski will be approx. 7km on the groomed road and corridor trail for intermediate skiers. Less experienced skiers can return on the road. We return to our cars for lunch. Afternoon hike will be a loop of approx. 7km from the outdoor centre and of intermediate difficulty. Ice grips, poles and/snowshoes may be required according to conditions.
If there is poor snow a longer hike will be planned instead.
Saturday Mar 14, 2026 Landons Bay Family Friendly Hike
Join us for a morning of exploring the beautiful hiking trails at Landons Bay located in the Thousand Islands National Park. This hike is geared towards families with kids as the distance will be shorter and pace slower. It includes moderately rugged terrain with beautiful scenery, a picturesque lookout, old growth forests, granite outcroppings and waterfront views.
Sunday Mar 22, 2026 Cataraqui Trail, East of Sydenham -Ski / Snowshoe / Hike
A few hours of skiing, snowshoeing or hiking depending on the weather, trail conditions and individual preferences. The outing will follow the Cataraqui trail beginning from Sydenham at and heading past the northeast end of Sydenham Lake. Bring your lunch and a beverage to enjoy on the trail. A car shuttle can be set up for an 8-10km distance, based on the group.
Sunday Mar 29, 2026 Perimeter Hike of Little Cataraqui Conservation Area
Join in for a hike at the Little Cataraqui Conservation Area. We will meet at the Outdoor Centre and hike a total of approx. 8km, on a perimeter trail. Bring a lunch, if you wish, which can be eaten along the trail or at the Outdoor Centre upon our return. Daily admission fee of $5 per adult (max $15/car) unless you have an annual membership for the Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area.