The Kawarthas Naturally Unforgettable, Forever a Part of Your Story
Nestled within The Kawarthas, the Trent-Severn Waterway beckons those searching for authentic stories and meaningful connections. Carved by ancient glaciers and enriched by centuries of Indigenous stewardship and the spirit of voyageurs, this legendary waterway offers more than breathtaking landscapes, impressive locks and charming villages – it presents a refreshing way to experience cottage country, right in your own backyard.
By boat, by bike, by car, or by foot, follow the course of this waterway trail to truly experience The Kawarthas as it is meant to be seen. This breathtaking journey, from its cultural landmarks and charming towns to its wide-open waters and storied wilderness, has the world taking notice. The Trent-Severn Waterway has been named one of The New York Times’ “52 Places to Go in 2025” – the only Canadian destination to earn such recognition. And for good reason.
As you follow the waterway south from cottage country, two internationally celebrated landmarks await you. Towering above the canal at Lock 21 stands the Peterborough Lift Lock, the world’s highest hydraulic lift lock. Watch as this National Historic Site of Canada lifts vessels of all varieties nearly 20 metres into the air without electricity – a spectacle that has been sparking wonder and imagination for over a century. Further downstream, visit the Canadian Canoe Museum – the world’s largest collection of paddled watercraft and the only Canadian destination featured in TIME Magazine’s “World’s Greatest Places for 2025”. From Indigenous watercraft that speak to hundreds of years of tradition to the modern spirit of paddling adventure, discover the history and cultural significance of the vessel that helped build our nation.
Yet, what makes a journey through The Kawarthas along the Trent-Severn Waterway genuinely remarkable isn’t found solely in its grand landmarks – discover the serene, distinctive charm of the communities that line its banks. Consider Lakefield, a picturesque village cradled by the Otonabee River, which offers an idyllic blend of outdoor adventures and refined small-town allure. Wander its historic downtown, savour the delights of a local café or bakery, visit local farmers markets, explore riverside trails a short distance from Lock 26, or plan your visit around its annual literary festival. Further north, tucked away amongst expansive forests and rugged fragments of the Canadian Shield, Buckhorn reveals itself. Enjoy a farm-to-table meal overlooking the bustling Lock 31, uncover unique treasures in its boutique shops, or spend the day at an award-winning art and craft show that highlights local talent – all just steps from the water’s edge. These towns along the waterway trail offer more than a place to pause – they invite you live at life’s true tempo, where every visit feels like a homecoming and every moment becomes forever a part of your story.
Perhaps the most interesting part of this international recognition is what it quietly reveals. The Trent-Severn Waterway invites you to slow down – to drift, to listen, to feel. Here, among shimmering lakes and timeworn shores, you’ll find an authenticity that speaks not just of place, but of presence. It goes beyond being featured on a list – it’s about a return to what is timeless and real. In The Kawarthas, the water connects us all.
As the spotlight shines on The Kawarthas, let yourself be drawn to the water’s edge. Step into the current. Follow its rhythm. Let the water whisper its welcome and let this be the season you discover what’s always been waiting for you – shining waters, shared stories, and the simple joy of being exactly where you’re meant to be.
Submitted by Ryley Gutoskie,
The Kawarthas Tourism
www.thekawarthas.ca
Photo Credit: Peterborough County Tourism (Cover and article)
