Kawartha Lakes
Kawartha Lakes is a rural area located northeast of Toronto and directly west of Peterborough that encompasses several communities and a chain of connected rivers, lakes and channels, including the Trent Severn Waterways.
The name Kawartha is derived from First Nations words meaning ‘land of reflections’ and ‘bright waters and happy lands’, descriptors that still hold water today. Visitors are treated to endless outdoor activities and water pursuits, as well as wonderful local culinary and culture that add to the welcoming character of Kawartha Lakes.
To learn more about all there is to see and do here, scroll down or visit the region's tourism website.
Where is Kawartha Lakes?
Kawartha Lakes lies between Lake Simcoe and Peterborough and is roughly 1.5 to 2 hours drive northeast of Toronto.
Things to Do in Kawartha Lakes
Kawartha Lakes is synonymous with rural appeal and outdoor recreation, particularly water sports on its numerous lakes. Boating, fishing, canoeing and kayaking are all popular activities. And there's even more to do out of the water, such as exploring historic towns, hiking, camping and wine tasting.
Because Kawartha Lakes is relatively close to Toronto, you can easily enjoy the region as a day trip. Although you can also spend weeks exploring Northumberland and the Kawarthas without getting bored!
It’s no surprise that an area full of lakes would appeal to water enthusiasts. Check out Lake Sturgeon and Pigeon Lake for excellent fishing opportunities. For canoeing and kayaking, head to Balsam Lake, which surrounds Grand Island. If you want to rent a houseboat, visit the village of Bobcaygeon and enjoy the waters of Pigeon Lake.
Near the town of Kirkfield, you’ll find the Carden Plain Important Bird Area (IBA). Home to numerous rare species, this stretch of land is a birding hotspot. Throughout the entire Kawartha Lakes region, you can find over 360 different types of birds.
With over 600 km of trails in Kawartha Lakes, there’s delightful scenery for every type of explorer. Some of the more popular routes include The Ganaraska Trail, Kawartha Trans Canada Trail and Victoria Rail Trail Corridor. The Kawartha Trans Canada Trail features the famous Doube’s Trestle Bridge. Each has its appeal, but all are great options for hiking, cycling, mountain biking, horseback riding and even cross-country skiing in the winter.
Balsam Lake Provincial Park is a family-friendly area with a campground. Other camping hotspots — both accommodating tents and RVs — include Pigeon Lake, Buckhorn Lake, Four Mile Lake and Rice Lake. If you like the feeling of camping but aren’t the tent- or RV-type, then consider renting a cottage at Kawartha Lakes.
There are several historical and cultural townships in Kawartha Lakes. The village of Fenelon Falls features a beautiful waterfall, plus fine-dining restaurants, art galleries and the expansive Garnet Graham Park overlooking Cameron Lake. Other favourite towns include artsy Lindsay with a memorable theatre.
Follow the official Kawartha Lakes Arts and Heritage Trail, which takes you to many art studios, galleries and shops throughout the region. The heritage towns of Lindsay, Omemee and Bobcaygeon are great places to start.
Kawartha Lakes is an excellent destination for a little rest and relaxation, while Fenelon Falls, Bobcaygeon and Lindsay are great spots to enjoy the area’s culinary scenes and wine tasting.
Things to Know About Visiting Kawartha Lakes
Whether you’re still in the planning stages or you’re already on your trip to Kawartha Lakes, it’s nice to learn what the locals know about the area.
Hidden gem
Captain your own vessel on a houseboating adventure through the interconnected lakes and rivers.
Where to go for a hike
After a challenging one hour hike from Eels Creek you can reach the High Falls of the creek, a wild, sliding falls surrounded by a rocky slope.
Where to go for a quick bite
There are several farmers’ markets throughout Kawartha Lakes, making it easy to find a bounty of locally grown fruits, vegetables, meats, as well as crafts, baked goods, preserves and much more.
Little-known fact
During the Prohibition, police noticed a few dizzy and dazed chickens in the area. Turns out the chickens had infiltrated a bootlegger’s illegal alcohol supply. Police were able to make the arrest shortly after this outlandish piece of evidence was discovered.
Last updated: May 31, 2021
Explore More of Ontario Through Our Visitors
Tag your photos with #DiscoverON to inspire others.