Ontario’s Blue-Water Lakes
So blue you won’t believe your eyes.
By Virginia Marshall
Backcountry bliss
Local outfitters offer exceptional services for self-guided adventures. #PaddleON
The Two Narrows Canoe Route begins on Halfway Lake and goes south into Bailey Lake, where you can see nesting Bald Eagles and a Great Blue Heron rookery. Travel a series of small lakes and portages surrounded by jack pine, white birch and poplar. Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
The 15 km Hawk Lake Trail is rated difficult. It visits several lakes and has an incredible lookout over Three Island Lake.
Discover more backcountry paddling experiences. For information on park fees and reservations, click here.
Recommended Articles
Ontario’s Blue-Water Lakes
So blue you won’t believe your eyes.
Temagami Canoe Trip Guide
Expert advice for paddling in paradise.
Paddle The Lakehead
Discover the best places to canoe and kayak near Thunder Bay.
Algonquin Park Canoe Trip Guide
Learn how to plan a backcountry paddling adventure.
French River Canoe Tripping
Everything you need to know to explore this historic and wild waterway.
Paddling Laws
This is what you need to know about safety on the water in Ontario.
Philip Edward Island Camping Guide
The inside scoop on this Georgian Bay gem.
The Massasauga Provincial Park Guide
What to know to plan your paddling and backcountry camping trip.
Spanish River Canoe Trip
Everything you need to know to plan an adventure on this beginner-friendly whitewater river.
2026 Paddling Events in Ontario
Events for canoeists, kayakers, SUPers, and rafters.
Best Canoe Maps in Ontario
Find out where to get the best digital and hard-copy versions.
Ontario’s Moose Hotspots
Your best chance of seeing a moose is by paddle.
SUPreme Adventure
Best paddleboarding destinations for beginners.
Historic Canoe Routes in Ontario
6 paddling parks where you can touch the past.
Hidden Gems: Best New Canoe Routes
Guidebook author Kevin Callan’s favourite picks.
Explore the Slate Islands
Your guide to planning a sea kayak trip to one of the most beautiful spots on Lake Superior.
Mattawa River Canoe Trip Guide
Paddle the rugged and historic waterway.
Imagine Paddling Quetico and Not Seeing Another Soul!
Over 2,200 backcountry campsites!
Killarney Canoe Trips
Learn about the best canoe routes in this stunning Ontario park.
Best Kayaking on Georgian Bay
Plan your next kayak trip.