Any sea kayaker who lives in Ontario, has either paddled to Franklin Island, or has it on their list of places to visit.  There are three island groups in this trip and each of them is far more than you could explore in a single weekend. When I make return trips to the area, it would be fun to see each of the areas in more detail.

We decided for this short trip that we would meet at the parking lot provided by Gilly’s Snug Harbour Restaurant & Marine.

 

 

 

A very important note to share. Pay extremely close attention to the parking signs. Many of the spots are reserved for local residents only. In my excitement to launch I received two $75 parking tickets from the town. (This is not a complaint, just a heads up to others).

As for navigation on this trip, we used the following trip map, as well as the topo and nautical charts we picked up at a local sailing outfitter in Hamilton.

 

Topo Chart: H8

Nautical Chart: Chart 2242

Adventure Map: http://www.chrismar.com/P05zFMM1.htm

The group packed up the kayaks, and off we went. By this time it was about 7PM and we only had a few hours of light. The first stop on our trip was Franklin Island.

The larger Franklin Island made for a nice place to paddle to on the night of our arrival, set camp and take some time to prepare for the weekend. We found a very nice and secluded sand beach on the South East side on the island. It was a very windy night and it offered fantastic protection from the weather.

When morning came, we were all pretty excited to pack the kayaks and start exploring. After breakfast, it was off to the west side of Franklin and beyond.

Saturday morning brought us some significant wind and some dreamy conditions to paddle in up to 1 metre rolling waves. The prevailing winds in the area come over the top of the Bruce Peninsula and head directly at the McCoy Islands. In spots, we got some really fun action to slog through.

After stopping for lunch on a beautiful island. We made the decision to make the open crossing to Big McCoy Island. There was a strong head wind and the waves were also a big factor in the decision. We felt we were all strong enough to make the 10+km crossing and set off in groups of two. That was if we had a capsize, the swimmer would have a buddy very close by.

After what was a very enjoyable, very demanding and very physical paddle, we arrived at the McCoy Islands. They are beautiful. I have been to a lot of places in a kayak and this place is a standout amongst the best for scenery. In spots, the water moving over the huge shoals makes it look like the water is boiling. The islands are pristine wilderness, they have no development whatsoever on them.

After a bit of touring and sightseeing we found a magnificent campsite in a small channel. It had fire rings left from the last group, a thunder box and what looked like a cool rock formed conference area. I am positive it wasn’t man made but it was just a little too perfect. Unfortunately, I didn’t Get a picture of it, but I will be back, and I will get one.

After breakfast and packing up, we decided to paddle the length of the island chain. From the top of the McCoys, through the Minks and to the Red Rock Lighthouse. We still had some pretty sizable conditions to contend with but wow was it ever fun. It also made for some great pictures.

 

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This trip would require a minimum of level 2 or higher skills depending on the conditions.