OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

The Buckhorn area is the perfect place to explore nature from the water.

Most area resorts provide watercraft for their guests, including kayaks and boats. There are also local businesses that rent these if you’re staying at a cottage or B&B. You can get a stand-up paddleboard or kayak for a little exercise as you enjoy the view along the shore. Or try your hand at fishing and catch a pickerel, bass or sunfish. Some of our resorts host fishing derbies in the summer to give your kids an introduction to the sport of fishing and can be fun for the whole family.

Ontario Family Fishing events give you the opportunity to fish our waters without a license three times a year -- May 13 and 14; June 17 and 18; and July 1 to 9. At all other times, Canadian residents between the ages of 18 and 64 years need to purchase a license to fish.

Houseboating has become more popular in recent years. You can take a cruise around the lakes and through the locks, enjoying time with family and friends on the water. Anchor in one of the lazy bays on Buckhorn Lake overnight and enjoy the sunset from your own floating deck. A great way to relax and experience lake life.

If your interests lie in exploring nature on solid ground, there are plenty of opportunities to do that in the Buckhorn area. Hiking trails, through Mother Nature’s backdrop of granite, forests and rivers can bring you to your own sense of wonder.

The Kawartha Highlands Signature

Site Park is the second largest provincial park in Ontario. The entrance just north of Buckhorn gives you access to a 1.5km hiking trail along the Mississauga River. This site features a special interpretive trail that tells the story of the River, its history and how it is linked to settlement and the history of the Buckhorn area.

You can find out more about this, and other area trails at www.buckhorn.ca.

Hiking trails, through Mother Nature’s backdrop of granite, forests and rivers can bring you to your own sense of wonder.

The Kawartha Highlands Signature Site Park is the second largest provincial park in Ontario. The entrance just north of Buckhorn gives you access to a 1.5km hiking trail along the Mississauga River. This site features a special interpretive trail that tells the story of the River, its history and how it is linked to settlement and the history of the Buckhorn area.

You can find out more about this, and other area trails at www.buckhorn.ca.

Those looking for a more sedate adventure in the Buckhorn area can find picnic areas and, of course, Sandy Beach.

Ode’naang Park is located beside the Trent Canal in “downtown” Buckhorn. It provides the perfect spot for your picnic lunch or to sit on the bench and watch the boats go into the Lock. Enjoy a slice of pizza or ice cream cone while you enjoy the sights.

For the beach sitters and swimming enthusiasts, Sandy Beach is the place to be. Sandy Beach is known for its expanse of soft sand that extends into Sandy Lake, which reminds many visitors of a Caribbean oasis of turquoise water.

There’s something for everyone from summer camps and activities for the kids, art and craft shows, senior’s programs, fitness classes, dinner theatre and much, much more. Check out the events listing in this guide and online at www.buckhorncommunitycentre.com

Here in Buckhorn, that’s due to the limestone bottom of the lake. There are no lifeguards, but parking and portable toilets are on hand,

Let’s talk about winter activities for a moment.

The Buckhorn District Snowmobile Club maintains trails throughout the area and is a great place to start. BDSC volunteers and grooming staff maintain approximately 165 kilometres of trails through varying terrain, from the east shore of Chemong Lake in the south, to the Gooderham area in the north. More information about the Club and area trails can be found on Facebook at BuckhornDSC.

For those who like exploring the winter wonderland on foot, most parks are open for hiking year round. Strap on your snowshoes or cross-country skis for a day out in the fresh air.

Direct: 705-768-5588 lynnwoodcroft.com

Are you looking to buy or sell in the Kawarthas? Who better to represent you than a 24-year resident of Buckhorn Lake with experience on the lakes and a passion for the Kawarthas.