Past Events 2024
January 2024
NOTE: Saturday January 13, 2024- Bath Water Tower Hike Rescheduled to Saturday, March 9, 2024.
Saturday January 13, 2024 – Ski on Cataraqui Trail – NEW
If we have snow, we shall ski on the trail east from Perth Road for about 10 km. Lunch will be on the way and then we return. If not enough snow, we shall hike for a shorter distance.
Sunday January 21, 2024 – Murphy 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.
Saturday January 27, 2024 – 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 2024
Saturday February 3, 2024 – Hike, Snowshoe Jones Creek Trails and/or Landon Bay Trails
Join us for hike/snowshoe on the Jones Creek Trails (5 km) and Landon Bay Trails (6 km).The plan is to hike/snowshoe the Jones Creek Trails in the morning; and Landons Bay Trails in the afternoon. These scenic trails are accessed from the 1000 Islands Parkway and have free parking. Generally moderate terrain with some rugged spots. Be sure to bring ice grips, snowshoes and/or hiking poles according to conditions. Also bring lunch which may be left in your car. You can join both or just one of the events.
Saturday February 10, 2024 – 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 must register with the park in advance to be assured of a parking spot.
Sunday February 11, 2024 – Ski, Snowshoe Hay Bay area
Please join me for a ski/ snowshoe on private property located on Hay Bay. A track will be prepared ahead of time for the day. Be sure to bring a lunch, and your gym tights or shorts for the optional wood fired sauna and hot cider afterwards. This trip is limited to 8 club members only. If conditions do not allow for ski/snowshoe (ie frozen ground) we will alternately hike at Sandbanks Provincial Park. Hope to see you there!
Saturday February 17, 2024 – Ski, Snowshoe or Hike KP Trail from Murton Road
Let’s hike, ski or snowshoe (depending on conditions) on the KP Trail from Murton Road.
Saturday February 24, 2024 – Changed to Lemoine Point Hike
This short approximately one and a half hour hike can accommodate novice and experienced hikers who want gentle exercise and fresh air (and some good company). The option to extend the hike on returning to the parking area is possible for those wishing to do so. Caution: The expected forecast and temperature swings may create icy conditions. Bring boot cleats/grippers.
March 2024
Saturday March 2, 2024- Outing on Cataraqui Trail
A few hours of skiing/snowshoeing/hiking on the Cataraqui Trail (distance depending on weather and inclination) led by Karen, starting from Ingrid’s home at the northeast end of Sydenham Lake. Bring your lunch to enjoy early afternoon on the trail or later outside on Ingrid’s deck, where a hot beverage will be served. (Please be advised that indoor facilities are not available.)
Saturday March 9, 2024 – Bath Water Tower Hike/Snowshoe
This is a series of trails introduced to the club 2 years ago passing by the Bath Water Tower and the perimeter of Millhaven prison. There are a number of pretty trails that are relatively flat meandering through trees and meadows. Depending on conditions we will either hike or snowshoe. Distance is approximately 7 km.
Saturday March 16, 2024 – Hiking Sheffield Conservation Area
We will be hiking in the lovely Sheffield Conservation Area, north of Tamworth. The distance will be 5.5 km, with a bonus 3.5 loop at the end for those who want a longer hike. Pace approximately 3-4 km/hour. Expect hills, rocks and roots, but the reward is breath-taking Canadian Shield scenery. Participants will be emailed more information, including the car-pooling meeting place, 2-3 days in advance.
Date changed to: Thursday, March 28 – Hike Big Sandy Bay, Wolfe Island.
A hike to a huge sandy beach with sand dunes and often interesting ice formations along the shore. With luck, we may see wildlife on the way. We will hike, ski or snow shoe depending on the amount of snowfall. The trip is 4 – 6 km, your choice. The ferry ride is free, but some days it can be full, so we encourage carpooling from Kingston.
April 2024
Thursday April 4, 2024 – Kingston Urban Walk – CANCELLED
We are so fortunate to have such beautiful waterfront walkways to explore. The walk will be about 10k. We will start at Lake Ontario Park where there is ample parking and a great view of the lake. We will pass by Portsmouth Olympic Harbour, the Tett Centre, Gord Downie Pier, The Gaskin Lion and perhaps finish at the new addition to our city, The Keewatin.
Saturday April 6, 2024- Hike Tetsmine Loop at Frontenac Provincial Park
The Tetsmine Loop starts at Kingsford Dam in the northern part of Frontenac Provincial Park. It is considered to be a not too difficult but rugged loop which has a couple of steep climbs or descents. The distance is about 11 km.
Monday April 15, 2024 – Hike at Depot Creek Nature Reserve – Rescheduled from Saturday to Monday
Hike At Depot Creek Nature Reserve
Join us for an excursion to explore the trails at Depot Creek Nature Reserve, a beautiful KFL&A Land Conservancy property in Bellrock on First Lake Road. Terrain is easy-moderate, with a variety of habitats — wetlands, woodlands, creeks and beaver dams. This hike is designed for 2 groups: 1. families with young kids as the distance is short, just under two hours, and you can’t get lost. Or 2. a slow walk to observe our surroundings, use our cameras, if interested, with assistance from Mieke, an experienced photographer. Or for a longer hike do the trails 2 or 3 times.
Saturday April 20, 2024 – Mississagua Creek Paddle
We will be leading another of the classic spring creek paddles. 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.
Saturday April 27, 2024 – Paddle Napanee River, Verona to Petworth
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.
May 2024
Open House – Tuesday May 7 and Wednesday May 8, from 17:30 – 19:30
Come on over to meet some current members, have a chat, see our boats, enjoy some refreshment and find out everything you want to know about the Cataraqui Canoe Club.
Saturday May 11, 2024 – Glenora Ferry to Picton Paddle
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 may be required depending on water temperatures. There may be an option for a shorter paddle. Parking is limited to 8 cars and car pooling is encouraged if possible.
Tuesday May 21, 2024 – Intro to Kayaking – Kevin Hogan
Cancelled – this may be rescheduled if there is enough interest.
Meanwhile sign up for the May 28 clinic!
This course is specifically tailored to participants new to kayaking.
Thursday May 23, 2024 – Sydenham Lake, Bulls Eye and Little Long Lake Paddle
Join us for a paddle with two options for distance to be determined by the group. Option 1: Sydenham Lake and Bulls Eye Lake with a distance of approximately 16 km. Option 2: paddling Sydenham Lake, Bulls Eye, and Little Long Lake which has a distance of 25km.
Occasional high wind and waves can be experienced, making this trip suitable for intermediate or expert level paddlers.
Saturday May 25, 2024 Cataraqui River Paddle
Paddle the Cataraqui River from the club boathouse in Kingston to Kingston Mills Locks, and back. Pack a lunch to eat at the locks. An easy paddle under calm conditions. Twelve km total.
Saturday May 25, 2024 – Club Social and Scheduling Party
Steve is our gracious host for our spring Potluck Social and Scheduling Party. This gives us the opportunity to safely meet and mingle outside as we visit, explore suggestions and develop our events for July, August, September and October. All members are invited. You are encouraged to put forward trip suggestions, take the opportunity to speak to our trip leaders and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow members. Following the social and dinner, trips will be scheduled.
This is BYOB and bring your lawn chair. You are welcome to bring your own plates and cutlery. The Club will provide non-alcoholic drinks and have paper plates and plastic cutlery available.Rain dates have been planned, in the event of inclement weather, to ensure this is an outside event.
Tuesday May 28, 2024 – Intro to Kayaking – Kevin Hogan
This course is specifically tailored to participants new to kayaking.
June 2024
June 1, 2024 – Rideau Paddle Seeleys Bay to Jones Falls
We offer a round-trip paddle on a lovely section of Rideau River from Seeley’s Bay. Put-in and take-out at Centennial Park, paddling north to Jones Falls, passing by Rock Dunder. 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.
June 8 and June 9, 2024- Birch Lake
June 9 paddlers are rescheduled to June 8.
This is a good trip for all levels of paddlers through some scenic waterways. We will launch at the causeway in Desert Lake, paddle down Mitchel Creek to Birch Lake where we have arranged a lovely place for lunch and a swim for the afternoon. There is a good lookout at the junction of Mitchel Creek and Birch Lake that we may climb. Total distance is about 15 km.
This event has been split into two due to high demand!
Wednesday, June 12, 2024 – Kayak Skills 1 – Clinic with Kevin Hogan
This course is specifically tailored to participants with at least 5 days of previous paddling experience.
Friday June 14, 2024 – Paddle Napanee River South
Join us for a relaxing paddle on 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. There is an option to join Linda for lunch at the Waterfront Restaurant upon return.
Saturday June 15, 2024 – Gould Lake Paddle
Join us on 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.
Wednesday, June 19, 2024 – Kayak Skills 1 – Clinic with Kevin Hogan
This course is specifically tailored to participants with at least 5 days of previous paddling experience.
Thursday June 27th, 2024-Paddle the St. Lawrence River, Navy Islands
Join us for a paddle on the St. Lawrence River touring the popular Navy Islands as well as circumnavigate Stave Island. We will be stopping for lunch on a National Island Park. This is a full day trip with a total distance of approximately 25km. High winds, big waves and strong current is likely to be encountered on the river, therefore a spray skirt is highly recommended in addition to other safety accessories as required by law and regulations. This trip is for experienced paddlers only. The number of participants is restricted to a maximum of 9.There is no shuttle.
Note: Each participant is required to pay a beaching fee of $5.80 per vessel for the use of the 10000 Islands National Park. For detais please visit pc.gc.ca.
Sunday June 30, 2024 – Special Boathouse Paddle: no charge for Club boats.
All members are invited to join us on this special boathouse paddle which will allow those requiring use of the club boats to do so at no cost. We will paddle from the boathouse with the final destination depending on wind conditions. We may paddle to either Kingston Mills, Cedar island, Kingston Waterfront, or just along the shoreline of Belle Park and Belle Island Park.
The total distance will be between 10 to 15 km.
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.
July 2024
Saturday July 6, 2024 – 14 Island Lake Paddle
Come and explore this lovely lake and see if there really are 14 islands! A quiet lake with lots of sheltering bays and channels to investigate. Search for ospreys, eagles, loons, basking turtles, and the opportunity for a swim. Enjoy lunch on a private island. This will be a gentle, easy paced outing, geared to the ability and stamina of the weakest paddlers. Access is only available to this lake via private property. Parking is limited and the launch site is small and may entail a bit of wading. Because of this, numbers will be limited. Bring lunch, bug protection and swim gear if interested. Rating: easy . Distance: as far as the laziest paddlers want to go.
Thursday July 11, 2024 – Circumnavigate Grenadier Island
Join us for a paddle circumnavigating the beautiful Grenadier Island on the St Lawrence River. It is a paddle for experienced paddlers who are comfortable paddling in strong wind, strong current and big waves conditions. Spray skirt is strongly recommended in addition to the regulated accessories.
The distance is between 20 to 25 km. It is an all-day paddle with a shore excursion planned for lunch and a hike to explore some history of this island. It is an all day trip. No car shuttles.
Note: The number of participants is restricted to a maximum of 10.
Saturday July 13, 2024 – Gananoque River Paddle
We shall launch in Gananoque at Confederation Park, on the west side of the river. The distance to the dam at Marble Rock is about 10 km. We might go all the way to the dam, but we can turn around sooner if we choose. There is almost no current at this time, so the paddling should be relaxing and is suitable for all levels.
Wednesday July 17, 2024 – 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 both north and south.
Saturday July 20, 2024 – North Charleston Lake
North Charleston Lake is full of islands, coves, reefs, beaches, cliffs, with clear, warm water this time of year. We will be departing from the Charleston Village Boat Ramp. Please arrive early to be ready and on the water by 10am. We will head SW, stopping at Charleston Lake PP for a swim and lunch. We will visit our famous cliff (jumping area) before heading north by more islands back to Charleston.
The total distance paddling is roughly 20 kms.
Wednesday July 24, 2024- Rideau Lakes Paddle
A delightful summer paddle, launching from a family cottage to explore nearby Rideau Lakes islands and including an outdoor potluck LUNCH hosted from Janice and Eric’s farmhouse. BBQ chicken with vegetarian option will be served and we potluck the rest. Total distance 17km, a shorter option is possible if a second leader is available.
Saturday July 27, 2024 – Mellon Lake Paddle
A 1 km paddle up Mellon Creek brings us to a deep secluded lake, 4km long with only 15 cottages. Most of the shoreline is Crown land. Scenic granite ridges beside the lake are home to the five-lined skink, Ontario’s only lizard. Weather permitting, we shall paddle the full length of the shoreline. Depending on water level, there may be the opportunity to walk on water! Leisurely paddlers can keep pace with the fleet by shortcutting across narrow bays and/or taking a siesta after lunch. Distance: 10-15 km. Full day paddle, all levels. No shuttle; no portages.
Sunday July 28, 2024 – Special Boathouse Paddle
All members are invited to join Ed on this special boathouse paddle which will allow those requiring use of the club boats to do so at no cost. We will paddle from the boathouse with the final destination depending on wind conditions. We may paddle to either Kingston Mills, Cedar island, Kingston Waterfront, or just along the shoreline of Belle Park and Belle Island Park. The total distance will be between 10 to 15 km.
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.
Wednesday July 31, 2024 – Morton Creek to Lyndhurst CHANGED TO THURSDAY, AUG 1
This full day trip includes river, lake and creek paddling. Look at some pictographs and the historic Delta watermill enroute. There is time to lunch and swim on the beach at Delta, or purchase food from the camp snack bar. Post paddle ice cream in Lyndhurst never tasted better. It is approximately a 18km, 6 hour, full day trip. Intermediate level. Short shuttle, no portages. For a shorter trip, or to avoid car shuttle, you can go out and return on Morton Creek.
August 2024
Thursday August 8, 2024 – Circumnavigate Simcoe and Horseshoe Islands
Join us for an exciting paddle circumnavigating Simcoe Island and Horseshoe Island. The distance is between 25 to 35 km. The exact distance depends on the wind conditions and the location of the launch areas (either from Kingston or Wolfe Island). This paddle is for expert paddlers only.
Participants must have experience in paddling distance of approximately 30 km within a 7 hour period (including lunch break and rest times). They must also be comfortable paddling in strong wind, strong current and big wave conditions.
The number of participants is restricted to 5 maximum. Rain date is Sunday August 9th.
Saturday August 10, 2024 – Boathouse to Milton Island
Join us for a paddle on the St. Lawrence from the Boathouse to scenic Milton Island and return. This is approximately 18km. Conditions on the River may be changeable with the development of strong wind and waves. Suitable for experienced paddlers only.
Wednesday August 14, 2024 – 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 both north and south.
Saturday August 17, 2024 – St. Lawrence River Paddle Ivy lea to Rockport
You are invited to paddle the St. Lawrence from Rockport to Ivy Lea via Smugglers Cove. After lunch on Ash Island we’ll return by Fiddlers Elbow and Lost Channel. We’ll be paddling in the heart of the 1000 Islands among spectacular scenery and magnificent mansions. Refreshments when done. The total distance is 16 km. Full day, intermediate level. This is a trip for sea kayakers; canoeists are welcome but need extra caution. Wave action and seaway traffic may be challenging.
Thursday August 22, 2024 – Canoe Lake Paddle
Why don’t you join us for a paddle on Canoe Lake on August 22nd. This is a beautiful lake about 7 km in length with the west side of this lake almost being pristine.There is a suitable site for us to have our lunch and even to have a swim. We can park our vehicles on either end of the causeway which is situated between Canoe Lake and Eel Lake.
Saturday August 24, 2024 – Paddle Loughborough Lake
Join us on a leisurely exploration of the granite islands on Loughborough Lake, northeast of Battersea. This paddle will be approximately 10-12 km, with lunch on one of the islands. Participants may choose to round out their day with refreshments at the local Creekside restaurant. This trip is limited to 12 boats and a maxim of 18 people.
Sunday August 25, 2024 – Social and Scheduling Party
Please joinus for the summer Potluck Social and Scheduling Party to be held on Sunday, August 25th. Weather permitting, we will sit outside and enjoy views of the 15th fairway on the Loyalist Country Club golf course. If it rains, we will move inside.
All members are invited. You are encouraged to put forward trip suggestions, take the opportunity to speak to our trip leaders and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow members. Following the social and dinner, trips will be scheduled for October, November and December.
This is BYOB and please bring your lawn chair. The Club will provide non-alcoholic drinks and have paper plates and cutlery available.
September 2024
Tuesday September 3, 2024 – Frontenac Challenge hike and paddle
Each year Frontenac Provincial Park challenges hikers to complete 160 km of trails in the park during September and October. Slide Lake Loop at 21km is the longest, most rugged section, requiring an extra walk-in to the trail head. To make it easier we paddle in 3km on Big Salmon Lake to the loop. This trip involves 6km paddling and 21+km hiking. Be prepared for a long day of approximately 10+ hours. Park fees apply and reservations are needed for day use. The reservation is at no charge if you have an annual pass. Please google reservations.ontarioparks.com.
Thursday September 5, 2024 – Admiralty Islands & Fleet Islands, St Lawrence River
Join us for a paddle on the beautiful St Lawrence River touring the Admiralty Islands and Fleet Islands. The distance will be in the range of 25 to 30 km.
High winds, big waves and strong current is likely to be encountered on the river, therefore a spray skirt is highly recommended in addition to other safety accessories as required by law and regulations.
This trip is for experienced paddlers only. The number of participants is restricted to a maximum of 9.
Saturday September 7, 2024 – Hart Lake via Opinicon Lake Jim MacLachan
We will lead a trip across Opinicon Lake and up a small channel to Hart Lake. Hart Lake is a relatively inaccessible small lake along the drainage outlet from the north end Loughborough Lake. The channel to Hart Lake and the lake itself is very scenic. There is a short portage to get past the rapids draining Hart Lake. The trip will be about 13 km assuming we take another short easy portage on Opinicon Lake as a shortcut around a kilometer long peninsula.
Saturday September 14, 2024 – Upper and Lower Rock Lake
Join us for a leisurely paddle of Upper Rock Lake. This is approximately a 2 hour paddle, for a distance 6-7 km, and suitable for beginners with recreational or sea kayaks. Anyone who wants to call it quits after this portion can easily do so; the group will return to the launch location before proceeding with the rest of the excursion.
Those who want a longer paddle will proceed to the creek on the east end, then into Lower Rock Lake (LRL). The LRL circumference is 16 km, not including the paddle to the creek and the creek itself. The route can be shortened as desired. The total distance for both lakes will be 16-22 km and 5-7 hour duration. Due to the longer distance and possible waves, a sea kayak is more suitable for this portion of the day.
Saturday September 21, 2024 – Bobs Lake
After a 1 hour drive north on Hwy 38 from Kingston, we will put-in and take-out from Tichborne. We will head north and then east into very scenic Green Bay, around islands and back. A 15 km paddle.
Saturday September 28, 2024 – Gould Lake Paddle
Join us on 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.
Sunday September 29, 2024 – Special Boathouse Paddle
All members are invited to join us on this special boathouse paddle which will allow those requiring use of the club boats to do so at no cost. We will paddle from the boathouse with the final destination depending on wind conditions. We may paddle to either Kingston Mills, Cedar island, Kingston Waterfront, or just along the shoreline of Belle Park and Belle Island Park. The total distance will be between 10 to 15 km.
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.
October 2024
Tues Oct 1, 2024 – Hike and Explore MacJohnson Wildlife Area & Brockville Historical Railway Tunnel
Type hike
Join us to hike at MacJohnson Wildlife Area in Brockville. It is an easy 10km hike with no hills.
Lunch in Brockville (you can either have a picnic lunch at the waterfront park or at one the of waterfront restaurants).
After lunch, we will visit the historical railway tunnel in Canada – the Brockville Railway Tunnel.
Wed Oct 2, 2024 – Sat Oct 5, 2024 – Round Schooner Lake
Type paddle, camping & day trips
Three nights of camping and day trips available on beautiful Schooner Lake north of Plevna. It is a long drive to the lake and a short paddle but well worth the effort. It is probably one of the most scenic lakes in our area. On Tuesday we will paddle 21 km down Mackie Creek to Centennial Lake and around Big Island. If it is windy we have the options of several bush whacking hikes to some great lookouts. It is a delightful place to just sit and read a book. Space is limited for tents so call early. Camping fees apply. Reservations have already been made.
Sat Oct 5, 2024 – Circumnavigate Howe Island
Type paddle
Join us for an exciting circumnavigation of Howe Island.
The distance will be at least 33 km – longer if wind conditions require that we paddle close to the shore.
We will start early (on the water by 8 AM) because of the shortened day light hours.
There is a good chance that we will encounter big waves, especially on the South side of the island, so a spray skirt is required.
This is a trip for expert paddlers who have experience in high wind and big waves. The average pace of the paddle will be in the 6 to 6.5 km/hr range.
We will start at Grass Creek Park and paddle in a counter-clockwise direction.
The trip will be broken into segments between rest stops of 15km, 7km, and 11 km.
Lunch will be at the East end of the island at approximately 22 km.
Number of participants will be restricted to 5.
Wed Oct 9, 2024 – Big Salmon Lake Hike
Type hike
Enjoy the Fall colours in Frontenac Park and, if doing the Challenge, add it to your completed hikes.
The Big Salmon Lake hike is probably the best hike in the Park , not as difficult as Slide Lake and with scenic views around the lake. It is 17 km long and takes 5 to 7 hours at a moderate pace.
A daily vehicle pass is required for all cars. It can be obtained at: https://reservations.ontarioparks.com , up to 5 days in advance. Note there is no charge for it if you already have an annual pass.
Bring lunch, water and take tick precautions.
Tue Oct 15, 2024 – Frontenac Challenge Canoe Trip
Type paddle
This is an annual trip for the Canoe Club and a highlight of the year. We will do six lakes and six portages inside Frontenac Provincial Park. The trees will be in full colour and it is spectacular. Some of the portages are up to a kilometer long and this works well with light weights canoes better than with kayaks. The light weight club canoes will be available to rent for this event. Generally, one person takes the equipment, the other the canoe.
You will see parts of the park you have never seen before. I guarantee good weather for this event. It will be rescheduled until we have a good day to go to get the best of it. It is immediately after the Thanksgiving holiday. the trip is held mid-week due to a severe parking problem at Big Salmon Lake.
Once you leave the boat launching ramp , you will see few other people. We can match paddlers up for this event to get two in each canoe.
The reward for this trip is proportional to the effort. The pace will be leisurely but you must be in fit condition. There will be great photo opportunities along the way.
This is really one of my favourite trips.
Thu Oct 17, 2024 – Hike at Gould Lake
Type hike
The Gould Lake Conservation Area is a true gem to our area. We will hike the Ridgewalk Trail where we will have stunning views of the fall colours and pristine lake.
This is a moderate level hike and will be approximately 10 km.
Sat Oct 19, 2024 – Hike Blue Mountain
Type hike
This will be a hike at Blue Mountain, part of Charleston Lake Provincial Park, with a combination of trail and off-trail hiking. We will summit Blue Mountain for the panoramic view.
Distance is likely to be about 13 km.
Sat Oct 26, 2024 – Hiking the KP Trail , Murton Rd
Type hike
Lets take a beautiful hike on October 26th. From Murton Road, off Highway 38 we will hike onwards to the Bridge and back or continue on to the Junction depending on our energy levels. The distance is your choice, according to abilities and your time.
November 2024
Saturday November 2nd, 2024 – North Dedication Trail, Frontenac Park
Type: Hike
We will hike the North Dedication Trail in Frontenac Park. Meet at the Big Salmon Lake parking lot at 9:45am for a 10:00 start. All drivers including season pass holders will need to reserve their daily vehicle permit in advance here. If you are carpooling, meet at the parking lot on Point Road in Sydenham at 9:15, then drive to the hike start location. Anticipated time 10:00am-3:00pm.
Distance is approximately 9 km. This trail includes gorgeous lake and pond vistas, If we re lucky, there might even be some cool fungi to check out !
Saturday November 9th, 2024 – Hike Parrott’s Bay
Type: Hike
Join us for a leisurely walk in the Parrott’s Bay Conservation Area which has 289 acres of woods and wetlands. There are over 5 km of gentle trails to access woods, wetlands, meadows and shoreline areas, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing and nature appreciation. Please be aware that at this time of year, some of the trails may be muddy. Come prepared with good walking shoes or hiking boots.
Saturday November 16th, 2024 – Downstream along the Mississagua Creek
Type: Hike
Many of you have participated in the Mississagua Creek paddles in the Spring going upstream, but there is also a lovely network of trails leading off the downstream portion of the creek, with lots of scenic views along the waterfronts of the Rideau Lakes. The trails form interconnected loops, with the total distance about 8 km, and offer possible short-cuts or turn backs at several points. The trails are over rugged terrain with moderate difficulty. Hiking poles will be provided ! Distance: approximately 8 km.
Saturday November 23rd,2024 – On the Rideau Trail to Flagpole Hill
Type: Hike
Hike from Perth Road (County Rd.10) to Flagpole Hill: This hike will be along the Rideau Trail. The terrain along this section of the trail is rugged in places. We will not be hiking in a loop. We will return the same way we came in.
Saturday November 30th, 2024 – Hike Little Cataraqui Conservation Area
Type: Hike
Larry will lead a leisurely hike at the Little Cataraqui Conservation Area. We will meet at the Outdoor Centre and hike a total of approximately 10km, with provision for some, if desired, to go a shorter distance. If you wish, bring a lunch which can be eaten along the trail or at the Outdoor
Centre upon our return.
December 2024
Saturday Dec 7th,, 2024 – Cataraqui Trail East of Sydenham
Type: hike
We invite you to hike on the Cataraqui Trail beginning in the town of Sydenham. We will head east and enjoy the many vistas of Sydenham Lake as we make our way. Distance: approximately 9 km, with the ability for participants to turn back early if desired.