Your Guide to Canoe Tripping in Killarney Provincial Park

Killarney Provincial Park is absolutely stunning. There’s no other landscape like it in Ontario, with its aqua blue lakes surrounded by the white quartzite hills of the La Cloche mountain range. And although the beauty of the inland waters will be enough to blow you away, as a bonus there’s the neighbouring waters of Georgian Bay and Lake Huron to explore, too.

The Park is situated in the near north, just southwest of Sudbury, and about a five-hour drive from Toronto. Pitch a tent at the George Lake Campground and go for a day hike on one of Killarney’s well-maintained and picturesque trails, or stuff all your gear into a pack and set out on the renowned 100-kilometre La Cloche Silhouette backpacking trail. Truly, though, there’s no better way to take in the beauty of the Park than from the seat of a canoe.

Canoeing in Killarney is a paddler’s paradise, accessible to first-timers and affording a variety of route options to experienced trippers. The main access to paddle the interior is from the Park’s campground on George Lake, but there are other maintained access points to begin and end a trip as well. This Killarney Provincial Park canoe guide will tell you everything you need to know to plan your first Killarney canoe trip—and many more to come after that.

Best 3-day Canoe Trips in Killarney

To The Crack and Back

This popular Killarney canoeing route is the ideal three-day, moderate level trip, taking you through some of the best lakes in the interior and finishing off with a view of your route from above with a hike up to The Crack. The access point is the campground on George Lake.

The first day’s route is across George, into Freeland Lake and then into Killarney Lake. There are two short portages, the one from Freeland to Killarney even offering a waterfall partway down the trail. There are plenty of campsites to choose from on Killarney Lake, all of which come with an incredible view of the southern La Cloche mountain range.

The second day leaves Killarney Lake by way of a portage on the lake’s northeastern arm into Norway Lake, followed by a second portage into Kakakise Lake. Both portages are over a kilometre long, but aren’t too rugged. Take your pick of two campsites on Kakakise for the night and rise early the next morning to hike up The Crack—a popular trail in the park that leads across white quartzite rock, through a massive crevasse (hence the trail name), and to a ridge overlooking Killarney and O.S.A. lakes.

Day hikers will access The Crack trail from the Hwy 637, but canoe trippers staying on Kakakise Lake can hop on partway with access at the northwest end of the lake, at the portage into Killarney Lake (don’t follow the portage, though; you’ll be heading north on The Crack trail, which is part of the much longer La Cloche Silhouette backpacking loop). This is a short but steep section of the trail, and the view at the top is incredible.

After the hike, paddle to the southwest end of Kakakise Lake and take the longish (almost two kilometres) portage into Freeland, and then back into George Lake to finish.

A Trip Across the Park

This is a great and very unique way to paddle across Killarney. You begin in the town of Killarney itself, which turned 200 years old in 2020. Then, you get shuttled in a motorboat by Killarney Outfitters, who you can also get your Killarney canoe rental from, across the expanses of Killarney Bay and Frazer Bay, and into Baie Fine—all part of Georgian Bay. A series of short (but steep) portages link Baie Fine’s The Pool with Artist Lake, Muriel Lake, O.S.A. Lake and Killarney Lake. This was a favourite hangout for four members of the Group of Seven: Franklin Carmichael, Arthur Lismer, A.Y. Jackson and A.J. Casson.

Two nights can be spent on either O.S.A. or Killarney lakes. You can then portage into Freeland and finally into George Lake, ending at the Park’s campground.

Nellie Lake Loop

Nellie Lake is the highlight of this two- to three-day loop, as it’s completely hemmed in by the northern La Cloche mountain range and has water so clear you can see all the way to the bottom. There are only three campsites on the lake, providing you with seclusion in this incredibly scenic part of the Park.

Although this route doesn’t cover much distance, the portages are very steep and rugged. You’ll begin at the Widgawa Lodge on Charlton Lake, just off Hwy 6 and south of Espanola. The first day’s paddle is to Grace Lake by way of Frood and Cranberry lakes. The second is to Nellie, which is linked to Cranberry by one very strenuous portage.

The third day is downhill, thankfully, to Murray Lake, and then downstream on Howry Creek back to Charlton Lake and the lodge.

Best 5-day Canoe Trips in Killarney

The North Range

The northern mountain range of Killarney has a subtle charm of its own. Here, the white quartz of the La Cloche blends with the mounds of pink granite typical of the near north. Entering from the north is also the best way to access Great Mountain Lake—one of the most beautiful lakes in the Park. If you try to access it from the south, you’ll have to endure some long and steep portages. From the north, however, you’ll have a series of short carries, and a leisurely five-day trip.

The Penache Bay Marina is the best put-in and can be reached by way of Regional Road 55, off Hwy 17 west of Sudbury. From Regional Road 55, turn onto Panache Lake Road (County Road 10) and travel for 14 kilometres to the marina. Paddle west from the access point and then south to the portage into Walker Lake, continuing on into Bear Lake. From Bear there are a series of short portages between Goose, Round Otter, Fish and Great Mountain lakes—the average portage length is a mere 300 metres. Follow the same route back, or add on other lakes south of Panache if you like.

David Lake Loop—and Climbing Silver Peak

This easy loop can be paddled in two to three days, but a couple of days should be added on for climbing up to Silver Peak—the highest point of the La Cloche mountain range. Begin at the Bell Lake access point, located off Hwy 637 and east of the George Lake Campground. The route runs counterclockwise through Three Mile Lake, Balsam Lake and David Lake.

You’ll hook up with the trail leading to Silver Peak from David Lake. Look for signs for the portage into Boundary Lake on the southwest side of the lake. Partway down the portage, you’ll meet the La Cloche Silhouette trail. Follow it east to find the trail junction where the climb up to Silver Peak begins. It’s a full-day hike, so leave early in the morning and bring plenty of water and snacks. You can see the majority of the Park from the top, as well as the city of Sudbury.

The paddle back to the access point is through Clearsilver and Johnnie Lakes. All the portages on this route are less than a kilometre in length.

Killarney Access Points

• George Lake Campground: main access, located on the north side Hwy 637
• Bell Lake Access: lesser-used access located to the east of the George Lake Campground, at the end of Bell Lake Road on the north side of Hwy 637
• Penache Bay Marina: most northern access and rarely used, southwest of Sudbury
• Widgawa Lodge: remote access on the northwest corner of the Park, near the town of Espanola

Reservations

Reservations for the interior can be made online through the Ontario Parks website or by calling 1-888-ONT-PARK (1-888-668-7275). Those living outside North America can call 519-826-5290. Take note that campsites fill up fast.

Killarney Canoe Rentals, Outfitting & Shuttles

Killarney Outfitters

Killarney Outfitters, situated 6.5 kilometres to the west of the George Lake Campground, offers canoe, kayak and SUP rentals; camping equipment rentals; canoe trip, kayak trip and backpacking outfitting; and water taxi canoe and kayak shuttles. They’re also a great resource for assistance with trip planning. The store has a variety of outdoor gear for purchase should you need something before you head into the interior, as well as ice and firewood.

Killarney Kanoes

Killarney Kanoes, located at the Bell Lake access point, offers canoe and kayak rentals, as well as camping equipment rentals. 

Bear Lake Wilderness Camp

Bear Lake Wilderness Camp is located on the northwest corner of the Park and offers aluminum canoe rentals. They also provide a shuttle service, taking paddlers and their gear into Bear Lake to allow for deeper exploration of the Park without having to add more time onto your trip. 

Widgawa Lodge

Widgawa Lodge, located in the northwest corner of the Park, rents ultralite Kevlar canoes with delivery to various western access points, including: Widgawa Lodge, Walker Lake, Walser's Landing, Cross Lake, Grace Lake and Nellie Lake. They also rent food barrels, yolk pads, satellie communicators and kayaks. You can camp or stay in a cabin at Widgawa Lodge before or after your trip. Lastly, they offer a water taxi service to the Grace Lake portage and Howry Creek.

Getting There

Parkbus runs shuttles from Toronto and Vaughn to the George Lake Campground in Killarney Provincial Park and Killarney Mountain Lodge in the nearby town of Killarney.

Killarney Canoe Route Maps

Maps by Jeff: Killarney Paddling Map

Available for download or order a printed version at the link above

Friends of Killarney Park: Backcountry Hiking and Canoe Route Map 

Printed version can be ordered online at link above, or purchased in-person at Killarney Outfitters or Widgawa Lodge.

LatLong: Killarney Provincial Park Map

Printed map available to be ordered online at the link above.

Backroad Maps: Killarney Provincial Park Map

Printed map available to be ordered online at the link above.

Killarney Provincial Park changed their campsite numbering system in the Park in 2022, so maps published before or just after this change may not have the new campsite numbers.

Guided Canoe Trips in Killarney

There are currently no guided canoe trips being offered in Killarney. For more information about trip planning and current canoe route conditions, reach out to the park office or Killarney Outfitters.

Best Lakes in Killarney Provincial Park

O.S.A. Lake

Considered by many to be the most beautiful lake in the whole Park, O.S.A. Lake is also the true birthplace of Killarney Provincial Park. Formerly known as Trout Lake, this crystal-clear, blue-water jewel was renamed O.S.A. Lake in 1933 in recognition of the conservation efforts of the Ontario Society of Artists, including acclaimed Group of Seven painter A.Y. Jackson. Jackson led a letter-writing campaign that effectively halted the progress of the Spanish River Lumber Company, which had plans to cut down the soaring white pines that grew along the lake’s shores. Thanks to the continued lobbying efforts of the Society, Killarney finally became a provincial park in 1964. Nearly a century later, O.S.A. Lake remains a focal point for many Park visitors. Small islands dot the sapphire waters, which are cradled between the twin quartzite spines of Blue Ridge and Killarney Ridge. 

Killarney Lake

Along with O.S.A. and George lakes, Killarney Lake rounds out the Park’s three most iconic lakes. Bordered on all sides by the La Cloche Range, the white quartzite cliffs contrast strikingly with Killarney Lake’s indigo-turquoise waters. Basecamp at the lake’s south end for ready access to The Crack hiking trail, which climbs to the Park’s most famous lookout.

Great Mountain Lake

Nestled in the heart of the Killarney wilderness and home to some of its finest wildlife (especially moose), Great Mountain Lake is one of the most remote and least-visited lakes in the Park, thanks to its location in Killarney’s lightly travelled northern boundary region and the difficulty of the portages leading into it. With forested lowlands to the north and the steep white cliffs of the La Cloche mountains on its south side, the lake almost seems to be hanging off the side of the mountain. 

David Lake

Easily accessible from the Bell Lake Access Point on the east side of the park, David Lake is one of Killarney’s more popular destinations and perfectly situated for a paddle-and-hike trip to the Park’s highest summit, Silver Peak. Lying at the base of the peak, this large lake is framed by spectacular rock formations and lush mixed forest. A short trail on the south shore connects with the Park’s long-distance La Cloche Silhouette backpacking route and the side trail to Silver Peak. Standing atop this lofty, bald summit, the views seem to stretch right across Killarney’s 645-square-kilometre wilderness and beyond, over the endless blue horizon of Georgian Bay. 

Nellie Lake

Secreted away on the west side of Killarney, this is one of the clearest lakes in the Park, with 28 metres of underwater visibility. Depending on the light, the water beneath your canoe can appear totally transparent, luminous turquoise or emerald green.

Balsam Lake

Wildlife lovers and anglers know this twisting and turning lake in the quiet northeastern corner of the Park hides plenty of surprises. Great blue herons, turtles, beavers, bass and pike make their homes in Balsam Lake’s cattail- and lily pad-filled wetlands. From here, short portages lead to even more remote fishing holes, including Deacon, Fox and Harry lakes. 

Boundary Lake

For seclusion-seekers, it’s hard to beat Boundary Lake. This small, isolated lake lies just off David Lake and has a solitary campsite situated near the mouth of Kirk Creek—perfect for private wildlife-watching forays. Even better, you won’t have any unexpected visitors—the only way into and out of the lake is via a 520-metre portage.

Johnnie Lake

The easy accessibility of Johnnie Lake from Highway 637 doesn’t detract in the least from the picturesque beauty of this long and meandering lake. Together with Carlyle Lake, paddlers can venture for miles into the Park, making Johnnie Lake a superb destination for kayakers or canoeists looking to avoid portaging. Numerous peninsulas, bays and islands offer a fresh vista around every bend, while the lake’s clear, blue waters, graceful pines and pink granite shores frame what many agree is the Park’s best view of Silver Peak.

Threenarrows Lake

Sprawling across Central Killarney like a great, watery hash mark, the various reaches of Threenarrows Lake were once actually three separate lakes. In 1900, logging operators built a wooden dam across Kirk Creek at the western end of the lake, causing water levels to rise by five metres and the three lakes to overflow into each other. This made it easier for loggers to float timber a greater distance, expanding their operations farther. Today, the interconnected arms of Threenarrows Lake penetrate a landscape of mixed marshlands and mountains, creating myriad paddling and camping options—just be sure to leave ample time to find your campsite. 

Peter Lake

Situated on the northern fringe of the Park, Peter Lake is a perfect option for peak season travellers who want to escape the crowded access points and portage trails of Killarney’s better-known lakes. This gorgeous lake offers two campsites and is just a short portage from evocatively named Hideaway Lake. 

While You’re There…

Following are the top places to visit in the town of Killarney, before or after your Killarney canoe trip.

• Stop for a bite to eat at Killarney’s famous Herbert Fisheries, rated as one of the top 10 fish and chip restaurants in Canada. Caught by local fishermen.
• Book a room and enjoy a beverage at Killarney Mountain Lodge where you can take in a panoramic view of Georgian Bay.
• Book a room and fine dine at the historic Sportsman’s Inn.
• Marvel at The Big Dipper, the world’s largest paddle at 107 feet long and 17 feet high, located on the grounds of Killarney Mountain Lodge. This gigantic canoe blade is the work of cross-Canada paddler, Mike Ranta, celebrating the 200th anniversary of the founding of Killarney village.
• The Friends of Killarney Provincial Park organizes Art in the Park events to unleash your creative spirit in the La Cloche Mountains.

Kevin’s Personal Favourites in Killarney

My first book was about Killarney. I was 27 years old at the time. Now I am 57 and have published 18 bestsellers. It’s been an amazing journey, one that I’m so glad began with this incredible gem we have in the province of Ontario. I recently did a trip across the Park, to celebrate the 30-year anniversary of the book (and the 200th anniversary of the town)—what a fantastic adventure.

As I made my way across the Park, I was reminded of the places that hold the most magic for me. There are two distinct ranges in Killarney's La Cloche mountains. The southern range is where The Crack and Silver Peak are located. There are also stunning lakes in this area, such as O.S.A. and Killarney—where the Park was initially formed. Then there's the northern range, stretched out across the top end of the Park. This is my personal favourite of the two. The quartzite is more ragged looking, more rugged, more sheer. It's also blackened by ancient volcanic activity.

Members of the Group of Seven preferred this area of the Park as well. Carmichael and Jackson camped regularly on Grace and Nellie lakes—two of my all-time favourite lakes to camp on. The views from the ridge tops are divine and the beauty the artists captured on canvas still remains.

The quartz hills, old-growth pine and oak, shimmering waters—it’s all just the same as when I first explored the Park. On his first trip to Killarney, Group of Seven painter Arthur Lismer is quoted as saying, “This place is a paradise.” He was right.

Plan Your Killarney Canoe Trip Now

Killarney Provincial Park is absolutely stunning. There’s no other landscape like it in Ontario or the world. Whether you are a beginner or expert, Killarney is a must-do paddling destination.

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