By Stephen Rolston
Paddling in South Frontenac is stunningly beautiful, accessible, and shockingly quiet. Paddlers could spend years of canoeing season finding every lovely lake, or find a favourite spot to watch the sunset and call it a good life.
Loons cry across still water. Pines sway in silence. A paddle dips slowly, steadily, calmly.For Westport residents this isn’t vacation, it’s home. Canoes and kayaks on summer evenings are a way of living slower, richer, more peaceful lives.
Where to canoe or kayak near Westport Ontario?
There is no shortage of options for paddle spots, but there are a few places that stand out.
First up, Upper Rideau Lake. This calm, scenic lake connects to the historic Rideau Canal, offering paddling that’s both peaceful and awe-inspiring.
Upper Rideau connects to Foley Mountain Conservation Area, where paddlers can enjoy panoramic views from Spy Rock, or explore the hidden bays and inlets just minutes from downtown Westport.
Also nearby, Devil Lake and Sand Lake offer seclusion and silence that is perfect for sunrise paddles or slow evening floats.
A short drive away is the magnificent hidden treasure of Frontenac Provincial Park, with more than 20 paddle-in lakes ideal for day trips or overnight adventures.
And if that’s not enough… Big Rideau Lake, Indian Lake, Opinicon Lake, or Newboro Lake are also all within a short drive, and each offers endless shoreline for your exploring delight.
Buy or rent canoeing or kayaking gear in Westport!
Many people, both Westport residents and vacationers, take advantage of Westport as a little hub for outdoor gear in South Frontenac. Check out rentals, sales, and expert advice at:
Wet Rentals – canoes, fishing boats, skidoos, and more. Just outside of Westport!
Pattinson’s Paddles – paddleboard and kayak rentals in nearby Newport, Ontario
Frontenac Outfitters – kayak, canoe, SUP, and fishing rentals… and lots for sale!
There are also guided tours available to discover the best local routes and classes at Frontenac Outfitters. The paddling community is welcoming and always eager to share their favorite hidden coves!
Westport is a paddler’s ideal town to call home
Westport is beautiful, quaint, and intentional. With net-zero ready homes at Watercolour Westport, walkable village streets, and a deep respect for nature, this is a place to live with purpose. Canoeing is more than recreation here; it’s a reflection of a quieter, more connected life.
Ready to trade noise for nature? Canoe your mornings. Hike your afternoons. Call Westport home.
FAQ’s
Question: How do you transport a canoe if you live in Westport, Ontario?
Answer: Most locals in Westport transport canoes using rooftop racks or small trailers. The village is located between two lakes, Upper Rideau and Sand Lake, so easy access to the shoreline is available to everyone.
Question: Is Upper Rideau Lake good for canoeing?
Answer: Yes! Upper Rideau Lake is ideal for canoeing with calm water, scenic bays, and direct access to the Rideau Canal system. It’s beginner-friendly, with easy launch spots near the village of Westport and beautiful routes leading toward Foley Mountain Conservation Area.
Question: Can you canoe in Devil Lake near Westport?
Answer: Yes. Devil Lake, located near Frontenac Provincial Park, offers tranquil waters, minimal boat traffic, and forested shores that are perfect for those seeking a peaceful paddle or an entry point into the park’s backcountry routes. Note that Frontenac Provincial Park requires an admission fee.
Question: Is Sand Lake a good canoeing destination?
Answer: Sand Lake is known for its shallow, crystal-clear waters and quiet surroundings. It’s a great place for a relaxing afternoon paddle or for wildlife viewing, especially in early mornings or just before dusk.
Question: What kind of canoeing is available at Frontenac Provincial Park?
Answer: Frontenac Provincial Park offers backcountry canoeing across more than 20 lakes. With paddle-in campsites and portage routes, it’s best suited for intermediate to experienced paddlers looking for multi-day adventures and immersive wilderness. They have great hiking trails too!
Question: Can you canoe on Big Rideau Lake?
Answer: Yes. Big Rideau Lake is one of Ontario’s most scenic and historic canoeing destinations. It’s part of the Rideau Canal and features long-distance paddling routes, islands, quiet coves, and access to heritage lock stations. Lots of route options!
Question: Is Indian Lake (Ontario) good for beginner paddlers?
Answer: Indian Lake is a great spot for beginners. It’s quieter than some of the larger lakes but still offers open water and access to beautiful shoreline. It’s also connected to several other lakes, making it a great introduction to loop paddling.
Question: Is Newboro Lake (Ontario) a good place to canoe?
Answer: Yes, Newboro Lake offers wide, open water with great fishing and several island-dotted routes. It connects easily to other parts of the Rideau Canal and has nearby boat launches and local outfitters.
Question: When is the best season to go canoeing in Westport, Ontario?
Answer: Canoeing season in Westport typically runs from May to October. Late spring and early fall offer cooler temperatures, fewer bugs, and vibrant scenery—especially when the fall leaves start to change around the lakes.
Question: How hard is it to learn to canoe in Ontario?
Answer: Learning to canoe is relatively easy, especially in calm, flatwater areas like those around Westport, Ontario. Local outfitters and guided tours offer beginner instruction, and with a few basic techniques, most people feel confident on the water in no time.
Question: Where are the best places to go canoeing in Ontario?
Answer: Some of the best places to canoe in Ontario include Algonquin Park, Killarney, Frontenac Provincial Park, and the Rideau Lakes region, including Westport. The Westport area stands out for its scenic charm, accessible paddling, and strong eco-community. Northern Ontario also boasts stunning and rugged canoe routes for advanced paddlers, but is a long drive from the GTA.
Question: What are the top canoeing spots near Ottawa or Kingston?
Answer: If you’re near Ottawa or Kingston, head to Devil Lake, Sand Lake, or Upper Rideau Lake near Westport. These are quieter than provincial parks, offer stunning views, and are all under two hours away.