As the Fall equinox approaches tomorrow, it marks the official end to the “Summer of ’17“. While that doesn’t have nearly the same ring to it as Bryan Adams top hit song, it only signals the end of summer – and thus the beginning of fall. The boating season isn’t over yet! I love fall boating – warm waters, nearly abandoned lakes, quiet anchorages and no bugs! It’s a great time to get out on the water and enjoy our great country at least a couple more times before you put the boat away for the winter. According to DiscoverBoating.ca, here are the Top 10 Fall Boating Spots in Canada:
Muskoka, Ontario
Offering the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation, the Muskokas are a paradise for boaters of all ages and tastes. Dubbed the ‘Hamptons of the North,’ the Muskoka Lakes live up to its reputation for glorious sunsets, celebrity spotting and dockside parties. http://www.discovermuskoka.ca/
Okanagan Lake, British Columbia
Powerboating, sailing and water sports are just some of the exciting activities that can be enjoyed on this pristine (and warm) lake located in BC’s premier wine region in the Okanagan. It is home to a provincial park, and a number of award-winning wineries and restaurants making it the perfect destination, especially during the fall harvest season, to enjoy great food and wine after a day on the water.
Chaudière-Appalaches, Québec
With a heritage that dates back 350 years, the Chaudière-Appalaches is one of Quebec’s renowned historic regions which encompasses the St. Lawrence River, Lake St. Francois and the St. Lawrence Water Trail. With a wide range of activities and attractions, water sports and heritage cruises, a trip to the Chaudière-Appalaches is sure to be a memorable one.
Kootenay Lake, British Columbia
The largest natural body of fresh water in southern BC, Kootenay Lake has become a hotspot for boating and fishing. The largest rainbow trout ever recorded was caught in Kootenay Lake, which continues to attract people from far and wide looking to catch the big one!
Algonquin Park, Ontario
Algonquin Park’s scenery becomes even more awe-inspiring in the fall, as leaves begin to change and picturesque autumn foliage surround its waters – made famous by the paintings of Tom Thomson and the Group of Seven. Beyond the breathtaking panoramic views, make sure to keep an eye out for a number of wildlife species while cruising along the water! Check out their live web cam here for the fall colours update.
North Saskatchewan River, Saskatchewan
Although known for being the Paris of the Prairies, Saskatchewan is also home to more than 1,000 waterways. The historically significant North Saskatchewan River is perfect for boating activities such as jet skiing and fishing while taking in the fall beauty, and since the area contains mixed ecosystems, there is a wide diversity of wildlife such as kingfishers, beavers and bald eagles.
Rideau Canal, Ontario
Officially declared a World Heritage Site in 2007, the Rideau Canal is the oldest operating canal in North America. Boaters can cruise through over 202 kms of water and through a number of locks, experiencing unique scenery as they travel through urban Ottawa. There’s no better time than now to visit, because in celebration of Canada’s 150th birthday, the 2017 Seasonal Lockage Permit is free!
Northumberland Strait, Maritimes
The beauty of the Northumberland Strait is that it is the only body of water that embraces all three Maritime Provinces bordering New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. From whale watching to renowned fishing villages and the breathtaking Confederation Bridge, the Northumberland Strait offers boaters a wide range of scenic views —along with historical and cultural attractions—for those wishing to experience the true flavour of the Maritimes.
Point Pelee, Ontario
Located at the southernmost tip on mainland Canada, this magnificent boating destination has no shortage of natural beauty. It is home to a national park, and more than 70 species of trees, and is one of the best places to watch as hundreds of species of birds and butterflies migrate across Lake Erie in the fall.
Whiteshell, Manitoba
One of Manitoba’s favourite summer getaways, Whiteshell Provincial Park boasts countless lakes to enjoy boating activities like fishing in Big Whiteshell Lake, famous for its abundance of walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass and yellow perch. Boaters can soak in every golden moment, literally, as the dominance of Fallgold Ash trees in the region produces bright yellow leaves in autumn – with the best views enjoyed from the water.
Make sure you boat safely this fall – learn more at discoverboating.ca and dowload the Boating Safety App
