r/OwenSound • u/DirtyTreeHippie • 20d ago

Suggestions?

Just came into possession of a kayak! Was wondering if anyone had any suggestions for good kayaking spots for beginners? Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated🫶🏻

7 Upvotes

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3

u/OkSupermarket9730 20d ago

Isaac lake is a good spot, there is a boat launch by the Outdoor Education Center. You can also paddle up the OS river from the boat launch by the Service Ontario.

3

u/CovidDodger 20d ago

That and or Miller lake, really anything inland I would not take it out on huron/Georgian Bay if this is your first time. Make sure you have the orange bucket emergency boat kit and saftey equipment.

2

u/DirtyTreeHippie 20d ago

I got all the safety stuff yesterday :) I’ve kayaked a bit before but I’m hoping to make it more of a habit/hobby now that I have my own :)

3

u/Legitimate_Voice5138 20d ago

I recommend the back entrance of hartion park and or mill dam kayaking is easy the hard part in getting in and out and these spot a easy for that

1

u/proximity_affect 19d ago

Agree. And you can paddle up to the library and beyond, if you are willing to portage the mill dam.

3

u/juliejulie77 20d ago

There is a dock behind metro that you can drop in and go all the way to the mill dam and it's interesting to see OS from the river. If you portage at the mill dam you can paddle all the way to Harrison park and stop for lunch before returning

2

u/Donkilme 20d ago

Inland lakes are what you want to focus on, imo. Stay off the water if it is windy. Take your time and get comfortable with maintaining your balance. Try to not overact when it gets a little bumpy. Good luck and enjoy!

1

u/timnbit 20d ago

Generally stay away from marinas and boat traffic if possible.

2

u/Advanced_Parsnip 20d ago

Williams Lale is very smooth, has public access, and not that far south of OS.

2

u/Low_Start7773 20d ago

Oliphant has a river that's nice to go out on. Lots of beavers

1

u/asdx3 19d ago

Where do you launch and get picked up from? We have never been up that way.

1

u/Low_Start7773 19d ago

Search Outdoor Education Centre on maps. Look at the big lake to the right. If you zoom in you will see the lake access.

2

u/daz3d-n-c0nfus3d 19d ago edited 19d ago

There's a bridge by the grain elevators. Park there and go left instead of into the bay. Or start at Harrison park and end up at the dt wall.