Guelph Lake Conservation Area, Guelph

If you are a sea kayaker in South Western Ontario, you are probably aware of Guelph Lake. Many kayakers I know has been to this place to have their Paddle Canada level 1 assessment done with our friends at Ontario Sea Kayak Centre.

The Launch Area

I had a very good time at the course and even made some great friends. After the course was finished, we decided to go back and explore the rest of the lake. The water had been lowered for the fall, but the colours made up for it, and then some.

If you drive into the park, and follow the signs, it will take you to a small parking lot with a boat ramp. Here are the coordinates:

Difficulty: The lake as quite a few protected coves and small bays, however it is quite large for a reservoir. On windy days it can definitely become choppy.  I am unsure about currents at the mouth of the speed river where it meets the reservoir, so be careful in that area.

Paddling up to the Speed River’s mouth
The water was very low creating amazing channels to explore
We saw a ton of wildlife
And the colours were awesome
Wow!
Some more interesting channels
Flat, calm water on the day we went

Trip Length: We did a bit of a zigzag across the lake but we did manage to make it from one side to the other. The weather was mild for a fall day and the wind was gentle. Our time on the water was approximately 3 hours.

The open part of the reservoir

Cost: Here is a breakdown of the costs. It’s not a free trip but I think it is worth it and I would go back. The locals are very lucky to have such a nice conservation area. CLICK HERE

Park’s Website


If you are interested in supporting Kayak Ontario, please do so by attending our kayaking lessons (clinics, classes and events). To find more information, please visit our shop by clicking here

This trip would require a minimum of level 1 or higher skills depending on the conditions.