We tend to forget that the real stars aren’t on television.
They’re in the sky, never more beautiful than when reflected in the quiet waters of the Kawarthas.
Escape Routes
Cruisin’ by houseboat
…Ahh boating in Peterborough & the Kawarthas. In fact, there’s no debate on this one: we have some of the best inland boating in the world. And what’s even better is that Peterborough & the Kawarthas lies at the heart of the Trent-Severn Waterway. From here, Canada’s longest chain of locks and canals connects our lakes and rivers to the Great Lakes and beyond.
Thinking about renting one this summer but not sure where to start? Egan Houseboat Rentals are ready to help plan your adventure today!
Technicolour #FallforPtbo drives
We have put together 5 signature Fall driving tours that are perfect for watching foliage turn. Car, Motorcycling or Bicycling – it doesn’t matter the mode, you will not want to miss the vibrant leaves changing in the Kawarthas.
1 – Ring Around Lake Stony – 118km
2 – To Burleigh or Bust – 118km
3 – Leaf It To Lang – 97km
4 – To Buckhorn & Beyond – 107km
5 – Harvest Season in Harbourtown – 132km
Best paired with The Butter Tart Tour!
Share your fall photos with us on Facebook – Twitter & Instagram using #FallForPtbo
Some prefer a city ride; others want to be as far from the crowd as possible. That’s what makes cycling in Peterborough & the Kawarthas such a pleasure. We have the perfect spot for trail riders, road cyclists and mountain bikers alike! It’s nice to get lost sometimes but for those who prefer not to, view our City of Peterborough Trails Map, County of Peterborough Road Cycling Map and our NEW award winning Road Cycling routes – Peterborough & the Kawarthas Classics!
For a different point of view, grab a paddle – your adventure awaits you. It’s all at your doorstep, whether you bring your own canoe or rent one: A leisurely paddle along the Indian River. A day trip on Eel’s Creek. Overnight adventures in Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park. Advanced technical kayaking on the Mississauga River. There is truly is something for all lover’s of the great outdoors, find your paddle route here.
Can’t choose between a pedal or paddle? Try a water bicycle at a cottage resort. Whichever way, the scenery’s the thing.
Crank your right hand on your motorcycle
These are some of our most scenic rides—all paved, of course—for motorcycle enthusiasts. Best of all, a lake is never far from view.
No wonder a cruise through the Kawarthas has been consistently named one of the top rides in all of Ontario. Around the next curve is bound to be something of interest: a bakery; a scenic lookout; a roadhouse with a patio to park your bike and great places to stay along the way. For motorcyclists in Peterborough & the Kawarthas, it’s never about getting from Point A to Point B. It’s all about the ride.
Sled and shred some snow
Beautiful scenery, fresh air and thrills are guaranteed. But what might be best of all is the wonderful camaraderie that bonds snowmobilers together. You’ll see them at resorts and campfires, warming up after a long ride, swapping stories with new friends, more sleds in the restaurant parking lots than cars. Volunteers within the community—including local chapters of the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs—maintain the trails.
It s’no fun staying inside all winter long. Get your warmest gear on and ride the Kawarthas today. Looking to stop for a bite along the way? Many of our restaurants are conveniently located on or close to the trails. Let us help you plan your adventure today!
Bucket List
Claim a Kawartha Chair for an afternoon
Do you hear that? The beautiful sound of relaxation.
Picture yourself sitting on the dock, feet up, beverage in hand, listening to nothing but the sound of soft waves and sunshine. There is no better place to enjoy a morning coffee, afternoon reflection or stars so memorizing you can’t and don’t want to look away. This is Living. Book your dock today.
Looking for a different point of view? Find the 10 RED Chairs placed perfectly and purposefully along the Trent-Severn Waterway. Parks Canada encourages visitors to seek out the “Red Chairs”, enjoy these special places and share their experience on social media.
Catch a lake monster (fish tales welcome)
Fishing is all about bragging rights: about the biggest bass you ever caught; about that foolproof lure; about the one that got away. Fishing isn’t just for sunny skies and balmy weather. Here in Peterborough & the Kawarthas, the fishing is fantastic all year round!
One day is never enough, pitch a tent or claim a cottage for your fishing vacation today – BOOK NOW.
What you need to know:
- Why Fall Fishing Rocks
- Hot Tips for Ice Fishing
- First time fishing?
- Regulations for Zone 15 & Zone 17
Relax on a beach that’s not like a sandy sardine tin
Here, the beaches are smaller, more intimate and close at hand.
Just to name a few:
Try water skiing, wakeboarding or jet skiing
In Peterborough & the Kawarthas, we have a romance with our abundance of fresh water. It has become a way of life. There are so many great ways to play on the water – a summer must-do list includes wakeboarding, water skiing or paddle boarding on one of our 150+ lakes.
Whether you are looking to learn, want to rent, or are a seasoned pro wanting to improve your skills – our partners can help.
Make a Memory
You’ll never forget your child’s first fish (neither will they!)
There’s nothing quite list the look on a child’s face, who just caught their first fish – the rush of the catch is enough to keep smiles on their face – and yours – for days.
Want to take them fishing but not sure where to start? The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) – Hunting & Fishing Heritage Centre is a sure way to jump start their interest. With interactive displays and a live-release warm water fishing pond that is open to public as part of the Tackleshare program – it’s the perfect place to start.
Now that they’ve had a chance to “test the waters”, book your dock today. It’s time to get HOOKED.
Cannonball into three different lakes in one day
Nothing more refreshing than sitting in the warmth of the Summer sun and just when you think it’s too much, jumping into the cool calming lake.
Top Picks:
- Burleigh Falls
- Warsaw Caves Conservation Area and Campground
- Quarry Bay
- Ennismore Waterfront Park and Beach
Be sure to share your favourite spots with us!
Score a goal on a frozen lake or pond
There is something so magical about outdoor skating rinks – communities coming together one glide at a time.
Rinks pop up all around the city, thanks to local winter lovers you can find a well-maintained rink just around the corner. Whether you’re looking for a game of pick-up or just want to go for a leisurely glide with friends, family and loved ones – there are lots of local rinks to choose from.
Top Pick: Skate under the World’s Highest Hydraulic Lift Lock
Tell ghost stories by the light of a fire
S’more fun in Peterborough & the Kawarthas. As the sun goes down and the air cools off, everyone flocks to the fire pit. The crackle of the wood. The warmth. The smell. Perfection. As individual chatter dies down, it’s time to get everyone’s attention.
Need some ghost story inspiration? Trent Valley Archives hosts downtown Ghost walks throughout the year, sure to get your spooky juices running!
Snap Shot
These photos say it all. Share your Snap Shots with us on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram
1-2-3 Go!
Snap the classic dock jump photo
Take a selfie under a maple tree ablaze in red and orange
Take snow angel family photos in the fresh fallen snow
