Paddling in Lennox and Addington offers dozens of zero and low-portage routes across the Salmon and Skootamatta Rivers. Enthusiasts can launch from Greater Napanee to explore the river wetlands or visit Beaver Lake for a scenic 6.9km journey, experiencing the transition from southern limestone plains to the rugged granite of the northern Canadian Shield.
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Lennox & Addington has earned its “paddler’s paradise” reputation honestly. Dozens of routes thread through the county, and most require little to no portaging, so you spend your time on the water instead of hauling gear between lakes. The Napanee River is the main artery here, and it changes character quickly. Within a few paddle strokes of the urban waterfront, the noise drops away and the banks open into quiet, undeveloped wetlands where herons stand in the shallows. Further north, shield lakes like Big Mellon and Deerock give access to remote stretches of shoreline you would never reach on foot. In the south, the rivers run over limestone and carry a greenish tint. Push north into the shield and everything clears, the lakes turning that deep, dark tea colour that comes with clean granite and soft, acidic water. Each system supports its own plant and animal life, so the landscape shifts around you as you go.
What to Expect
Here’s What’s Different
- Most of the water here is calm and slow-moving, which makes these routes forgiving for families and first-time paddlers.Â
- The Salmon River route runs beneath a tree-lined canopy that keeps you in welcome shade through the hottest summer paddles.
- Big Mellon Lake offers a launch point at a designated Dark Sky Viewing Area, which means you can time an evening paddle to be on the water as the stars come out.
- Most regional routes are designed for out-and-back travel without the need for complex portages.
Good to Know
- Always carry the required safety kit, including a whistle and buoyant throw line.Â
- The main routes are portage-free, though late-summer water levels can drop enough to expose shallow gravel bars or submerged deadheads that need a careful eye.
- LOCAL TIP
New to paddling in L&A? Start with the 2.6 km Little Mellon Lake loop, then work up to longer routes like the Napanee River or Deerock Lake loops.
- FAST FACTS
- Over 100 lakes are available for paddling exploration.
- Before moving your boat or gear between waterways, Clean, Drain, and Dry it. In Ontario, it’s illegal to transport invasive species or launch equipment with plants, animals, or algae attached.
Location Details
Distance: Varies by lake, see boat launches for access
Difficulty: Easy to advanced
Your Route
Approximate Distance (One Way): 9 km
Launching Point: King Street Boat Launch, 228 King Street, Napanee
Note: The half way point is approximately at Mink’s Bridge. Paddlers can continue east to Newburgh, Camden East, Yarker and beyond. Portages may be required.
Approximate Distance (One Way): 4.5 km
Launching Point: Curl Road Launch, 117 Curl Road, Yarker
Note: There are two low water areas as you approach Camden East that may require you to leave your vessel and portage for a brief distance. Bring your water shoes as the bottom is rocky.
Approximate Distance (One Way): 10.7 km
Launching Point: Water Street Boat Launch, 22 Water Street, Napanee
Note: Paddlers may continue this route west into the Bay of Quinte, Hay Bay, etc.Â
Approximate Distance (One Way): 6.9 km
Launching Point: Salmon River Boat Launch: 3145 County Road 41, Roblin
Note: There is a tree obstruction about 4.8km east of the Roblin boat launch. Depending on the water levels, you may not be able to get past this location.
Paddlers can continue east to Croydon, Tamworth and beyond, eventually connecting with Beaver Lake Route (below). Portages required.
Approximate Distance (One Way): 6.9 km
Launching Point: Lions Beaver Lake Park: 5771 County Road41, Erinsville
Paddlers can continue east to Tamworth and beyond, eventually connecting with the Salmon River Route (above). Portages required.
Approximate Distance (One Way): 4.6 km
Launching Point: Dark Sky Viewing Area Boat Launch, 7980 County Road 41, Erinsville
Note: Vessels can be dropped off at the launch. Vehicles can park up the hill in larger lot.
Approximate Distance (Full Loop): 2.6 km
Launching Point: Sheffield Conservation Area, 8032 County Road 41, Erinsville
Approximate Distance (Loop): 9.2 km
Launching Point: Deerock Lake Conservation Area
Approximate Distance (One Way): 10.6 km
Launching Point: Boat Launch, North Mazinaw Heights Road, Cloyne
Approximate Distance (One Way): 6.5 km
Launching Point: Boat Launch, North Mazinaw Heights Road, Cloyne
Approximate Distance (One Way): 5.8 km
Launching Point: Boat Launch at Bear Pond Road, Cloyne
What We Offer
Common Questions
The 9km stretch from King Street to Strathcona is one of the best paddles in the county for all skill levels. Beaver Lake near Erinsville offers a 6.9km route through calm water with open views of the surrounding farmland and forest.
Most main routes are portage-free, though low water in late summer may require short carries over gravel bars.
Seasonal rentals are available through local outfitters in Loyalist Township and the Highlands.
Ontario law requires anglers and boaters to help prevent the spread of invasive species by following the Clean, Drain, Dry rule. Before moving your boat or equipment between lakes, remove drain plugs and drain all water, and make sure there are no aquatic plants, animals, or algae attached to your boat, trailer, or gear. It is illegal to transport invasive species overland or launch equipment with vegetation or organisms attached. Taking a few minutes to clean your equipment helps protect Lennox & Addington’s lakes and fisheries for future users.
Contacts
Naturally L&A Visitor Centre
Help us plan your Lennox & Addington Adventure Stop in and see us at 41 Dundas St. W. in Napanee.
Monday – Friday from 8:30am – 4:30pm.
Get the Itinerary
Get the official Backroad Adventure route sent to your phone with stops and local recommendations ready to go.
Getting Here
Naturally L&A Visitor Centre
Help us plan your Lennox & Addington Adventure Stop in and see us at 41 Dundas St. W. in Napanee.