A Trail Town Along the Trent-Severn Waterway
National Historic Site of Canada
Coboconk
Welcome to Coboconk
Pristine Lakes & Small Town Charm
From the Trent-Severn Waterway on beautiful Balsam Lake, take a short ride through a lovely channel to arrive at the Coboconk Wharf. Coboconk is a bustling summer hub and a busy stop for cottagers as well as campers at Balsam Lake Provincial Park.
Boating amenities include free WiFi and docking at the wharf, with gas and ice available across the channel. A short stroll will lead to restaurants and patios, ice cream cones, accommodations, laundry, and groceries. Boat rentals and private boat docking are also available. In June, the 2-day Canada’s Fresh Water Summit Festival is held each year celebrating that Coboconk is the highest point in North America from which you can circumnavigate the world by boat.
Discover Coboconk
On Top of the World
Coboconk has the distinction of being the highest point in North America from which a boater can circumnavigate the globe. Even if you're not embarking on an international expedition, Canada's Freshwater Summit is a joy to visit.
A Rare Sight
Carden Alvar Provincial Park and Important Bird & Biodiversity Area is a birdwatcher's paradise. This unique habit is home to a dazzling variety of birds, plants, butterflies, and dragonflies.
Beautiful Balsam Lake Provincial Park
A sandy beach, a range of camping options from car access to secluded walk-in sites, and day hikes that pass through forest to panoramic views - Balsam Lake Provincial Park is an excellent family getaway.
The Group of Seven Connection
The Gull River is such a picturesque paddle it inspired Group of Seven painter J.E.H. MacDonald. Explore the region's quiet beauty with our paddling route recommendations.
Dine at the Freshwater Summit
If you worked up an appetite after a long day on the water or the trails, Coboconk has you covered. Find delicious comfort food, cozy patios, and more.
Explore Further
Still planning your visit? Find dining, shopping, and accommodation recommendations courtesy of the Coboconk, Norland & Area Chamber of Commerce.
Coboconk Community History
Founded in 1851, the village of Coboconk is one of the oldest settlements in the area. The name Coboconk is derived from the First Nations’ phrase “Quash-qua-be-conk” meaning “where the gulls nest”. There are several beautiful lakes and water trails in the area, including the picturesque Gull River where the renowned Group of Seven artist JEH MacDonald frequented with his son for a paddle and sketching. This remarkable town is marked by the granite that comprises the Canadian Shield along with notable cedars and pines that are reminiscent of Group of Seven paintings. Coboconk has a rich and unique history and played a prominent role in the logging, limestone, railway, and tourism industries of the region since the 1850’s.
Trail Town Friendly Business Directory
Festivals and Sights around Coboconk to watch for...
Canada’s Fresh Water Summit Community Festival (3rd weekend of June)
Join in the fun for a Friday night party at the Wharf, followed by a free family day at Lion’s Park to celebrate Balsam Lake, Canada’s highest body of fresh water.
Photo-Op at the Wharf of Canada’s Fresh Water Summit (Year-Round)
Unique photo-op located at the wharf on South Water Street.
Canada’s Smallest Jail (Summer)
Built in 1884. Visit for unique gifts and great stories about the Jail’s history.
Balsam Lake Provincial Park
Trails, beach, boat docking, camping, education programs, and Farmer’s Market.
Historic Kirkfield Lift Lock #36 on the Trent-Severn Waterway
Built in the early 1900s, this engineering marvel is the 2nd highest lift lock in the world!
Laidlaw Estate & Dry Stack Stone Wall on Balsam Lake Drive
Historical 1870s summer home of George Laidlaw, with excellent examples of the Scottish technique of stacking stones to create a fence. Believed to be the longest dry stack fence in Canada.
Indian Point Provincial Park
Trails only. No Camping.
Fishing from the Coboconk Wharf and new dock in town
Find Bass, Muskies, Perch, and Walleye within Balsam Lake.
Coboconk area sites on the Kawartha Lakes Arts & Heritage Trail
Great locations for the Art and Heritage enthusiasts.
Kawartha Lakes Intangible Culture Experience – Our Stories
Learn the stories of everyday Kawartha Lakes residents from decades past with this interactive online map.
Kawartha Lakes Arts & Culture Map
Explore the rich artistic and cultural heritage of the region with this unique online map filled with notable locations.
