Paddling Route: Trent University to Squirrel Creek Conservation Area

Kawarthas region 1-day route

On this very relaxing paddle trip, you will cover the lower section of the Otonabee River, which is more natural and scenic. Keep your eye out for all kinds of wildlife.

Plan your trip

This is a one-way route that requires a personal shuttle to or from the put-in and take-out locations. Plan accordingly.

Directions

1. After you put-in, follow the river south to the Peterborough Lift Lock
2. After descending the lift lock, proceed down the river to Lock 20
3. After you exit Lock 20, take a left and enter the short 1km narrow creek through Beavermead Park (to the right of the Trent-Severn Waterway Headquarters)
4. Stick to the right shore
5. You will exit by the Peterborough Naval Association back into Little Lake
6. Take a left and make your way to Lock 19.
7. Make sure to avoid the dam
8. Follow the channel of the river to Squirrel Creek Conservation Area; the exit spot will be on the right after the bridge

Lockage

Lockage is the process of raising or lowering boats and paddlecraft into connecting sections of the Trent-Severn Waterway. Lockage takes approximately 20 minutes to complete. During seasonal Hours of Operation, paddlers can lock through any Parks Canada lock with the purchase of a valid lockage permit. Permits may be purchased upon arrival, or in advance online or by phone.

Locks along this route

Wind conditions

• Current flows from Trent University to Squirrel Creek Conservation Area
• Preferable wind conditions are from the north (tail wind)
• Avoid winds from the south (head wind)

Hazards

• Watch for powerboats and their wake
• Winding narrow section of the Otonabee River past Lock 19

Avoid dams

Watch for dams at the following locations and be sure to navigate away from them:

• Right (west) side of Peterborough Rowing Club
• Left side of Lock 19

Tourism information

Other routes you might like…

McCracken’s Landing to Peterborough

Buckhorn to McCrakens Landing