Spend two relaxing days travelling from the “Hub of the Kawarthas” to scenic, welcoming Lakefield
Bobcaygeon is a special place—somehow it manages to feel alive and bustling yet tucked away and green at the same time. As a cottage country hub, it makes a natural starting point for a voyage down the Trent-Severn Waterway.
En route to the equally scenic village of Lakefield, you’ll encounter placid islands, four locks, and friendly fellow boaters. The trip’s manageable length means you’ll be comfortable even in a smaller boat. Though this itinerary only takes two days, you’ll likely feel you’ve been away much longer.
Remember a permit is required for lockage and overnight moorage. Need to rent a boat for the occasion? Visit our Boating page for details.
Bobcaygeon is the home of Lock 32, the first lock along the Trent-Severn Waterway, so it makes sense to begin your journey here. Overnight mooring is available at the lock, as well as Gordon Yacht Harbour Marina, Centre Point Landing Marina, and Birch Point Marina.
If you have a night in town before beginning your journey, we recommend The Bobcaygeon Inn. The attached Royal Moose Grill & Waterfront Patio has cozy cottage vibes written all over it, and the ample patio will give you a taste of the TSW before you even set foot on a boat.
Shopping in town is also especially appealing in Bobcaygeon—Bigley’s Shoes and Clothing is a local institution, and as the homebase of Kawartha Dairy it’s a natural place to stop for an ice cream cone.
When you set out in the morning, watch the early risers already beginning their voyage along the TSW as you grab breakfast and a coffee. You’ll want to budget around seven hours to make it to Lakefield, longer if you’re planning to linger awhile along the way. Remember to check the schedule to make sure you don’t miss that last lockage of the day.
Soon after setting out into Pigeon Lake, you’ll spot Big Island. On a nice day, chances are there will be plenty of other boats here as well—trails on the island maintained by Kawartha Land Trust make for exciting exploring, and it’s a beautiful spot simply to drop anchor awhile.
There are four locks to go through between Bobcaygeon and the Lakefield Marina. After crossing from Pigeon Lake to Buckhorn Lake you’ll encounter Lock 31 – Buckhorn.
Lock 31 is walking distance to this Trent-Severn Waterway Trail Town, where you’ll find plenty of amenities and dining options.
The next ~13km are very scenic, passing by a number of rocky inlets. Lock 30 – Lovesick is your next stop. This is an attractive location thanks in part to Wolf Island Provincial Park, a boat access only non-operating park that makes for a lovely picnic backdrop.
Next comes Lock 28 – Burleigh Falls. Enjoy the view of Stony Lake’s many green islands en route to Clear Lake.
Lock 27 – Young’s Point is your last lock of the day. This is a popular spot, with a park and good fishing opportunities if you feel like casting a line.
You’ve made it! By now you’ve probably had your share of sun and are feeling pleasantly tired. Get back on dry land and leave the boat at Lakefield Marina while you explore the town.
Lakefield is also a Trent-Severn Trail Town, and you’ll be spoiled for choice by it range of options. The Cassis Bistro is ideal for fine dining; enjoy pub fare at The Canoe and Paddle and stay within sight of the water; eat at The Loon and appreciate the difference locally sourced ingredients make.
There are also a number of boutique shops, including Happenstance Books & Yarns and The Chocolate Rabbit. Once you’ve had your fill, head over to Imagine the Marsh Conservation Area—the view across Katchewanooka Lake will make for a fitting end to your explorations along the TSW.
There’s always more to see and do—browse the itineraries below for more daytrip and overnight suggestions around Kawarthas Northumberland.
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Bobcaygeon to Lakefield by boat Spend two relaxing days travelling from the “Hub of the Kawarthas” to scenic, welcoming Lakefield Bobcaygeon is a special place—somehow it manages to feel alive and bustling yet tucked away and green at the same time. As a cottage country hub, it makes a natural starting point for a voyage