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Houseboat the TSW

Explore the historic Trent-Severn Waterway from the comfort of your houseboat with this five-day itinerary

There’s something magical about a houseboat. With everything you need on board, you’re free to follow your curiosity and take your time on a water-based vacation. What’s more, the scenic corridors that open into beautiful lakes and well-organized locking system makes the Trent-Severn Waterway an ideal spot for a houseboat tour.

This itinerary will take you from Bobcaygeon to Coboconk, winding your way through quiet Kawartha Lakes landscapes en route to several charming communities. If you’re a first-time houseboater, you’ll be happy to know you have few locks to navigate here so you can spend more time in open water.

Remember a permit is required for lockage and overnight moorage. Need to rent a boat for the occasion? Egan Houseboats and R & R Houseboat Rentals are both popular options. You can also visit our Boating page for details.

Day one: BOBCAYGEON

Bobcaygeon

Take the first day in Bobcaygeon to stock up and load the boat up with supplies. As a Trent-Severn Waterway Trail Town, there are plenty of unique spots around town you’ll want to check out. When you take possession of your boat, you’ll probably need to budget time for driving instructions and a safety lesson as well.

Once you’re well-supplied and ready to pilot, leave the marina and head for Big Island, the largest undeveloped island in the Kawarthas. Overseen by Kawartha Land Trust, you can explore the island’s trails or go for a swim. If you visit Bobcaygeon’s Boyd Heritage Museum beforehand, you’ll have a greater appreciation for the island’s history.

Big Island makes for an exciting first night on the water, so drop anchor on the east side and settle in— the next day it’s off to Fenelon Falls.

Fenelon Falls

After you depart from Big Island, you’ll soon need to pass through Bobcaygeon’s Lock 32, the first lock built along the TSW. Lock staff are very friendly and can help guide you through your first lock experience.

After passing through, you’ll have about 25 km of relaxing boating down Sturgeon Lake to look forward to. You should have plenty of time, but just remember to check the schedule to make sure you don’t miss that last lockage of the day. In this section of the TSW it’s also possible to encounter some fellow boater traffic.

Once you arrive in Fenelon Falls you’ll have a whole other Trent-Severn Trail Town to explore. Overnight moorage is available at Fenelon’s Lock 34 on a first-come, first served basis.

The lock is only steps from downtown, so it’s easy to explore this quaint little spot. If you’re in the mood for a meal, Murphy’s Lockside Pub & Patio and The Locker at the Falls Restaurant & Pub are good bets; Fenelon Falls Brewing Co. makes excellent craft beer.

Day Two: Fenelon Falls

DAY THREE: Rosedale

Rosedale

After breakfast in Fenelon Falls, you next stop is Rosedale, the third Trent-Severn Trail Town along this route.

It’s really only a few kilometres to Rosedale, so take your time enjoying Fenelon and Cameron Lake. McFarland Bay is a popular choice for picnickers. Rosedale is designed to cater to boaters, and you’ll find any practical supplies you need here.

By now you’ve moved into a more secluded stretch of the waterway, and  overnighting at Lock 35 should be a pleasure.

Coboconk + Return to Fenelon

Balsam Lake is pure Canadiana—no less a painter than Group of Seven member J.E.H. MacDonald was inspired by the landscapes of nearby Gull River.

This isn’t just a beautiful, rural spot, though. It’s technically the highest elevation you’ll reach along the TSW. In fact, by the time you reach Coboconk (yes, also a Trent-Severn Trail Town) you’ll have attained the Fresh Water Summit, the highest point from which a vessel can circumnavigate the globe.

Rather than sail for international waters, you’ll probably want to make Coboconk the northernmost stop before the return trip. Dockside Restaurant Bar and Grill and The Pattie House Smokin’ BBQ are both near the water and quite popular.

Once you’ve explore the world’s Fresh Water Summit to your heart’s content, it’s back on board the boat to return to Fenelon for your last overnight.

Day FOUR: Coboconk

DAY FIVE: RETURN TRIP

Return to Bobcaygeon

Congratulations—you can now say you’ve explored Kawartha Lake by houseboat! Reflect on the experience as you meander back to Bobcaygeon to return your craft. If you’re looking for a night on dry land before heading home, a stay at The Bobcaygeon Inn could round out those cottage country vibes.

TRIP PLANNER

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KEEP EXPLORING

There’s always more to see and do—browse the itineraries below for more daytrip and overnight suggestions around Kawarthas Northumberland.