Lake Simcoe Shores

Launch at McRae Point Provincial Park and hug the shoreline of the sparkling waters of Lake Simcoe. Be sure to keep an eye out for herons, hawks and ospreys as they love to catch their next meal on this bountiful lake. Bring your gear and drop a line in the well known fishing hole of Lake Simcoe. You will pass the beautiful Mara Provincial Park and end your paddle at Lovely Day Park. All three of the parks include picnic locations, swimming and stunning views of the lake, the two provincial parks offer seasonal camping. You can paddle this route in either direction. Please note the operating dates for the provincial parks; Mara Provincial Park is mid May to Labour Day weekend and McRae Point Provincial Park is mid May to Thanksgiving weekend. Visit www.OntarioParks.com for operating hours and entrance fees.

Waterway: Lake Simcoe

Distance: 11.5km One Way

Time: 4 – 6 Hours

Difficulty: Easy/Intermediate

Type of Route: Linear

Launch Points:

(1) McRea Point Provincial Park – 4366 McRea Park Rd. Ramara, ON.
(2) Mara Provincial Park – 181 Courtland St., Ramara, ON.
(3) Atherley Community Park & Lovely Day Park – 72 Creighton St., Orillia, ON.

Parking:  McRae Point Provincial Park (entrance fee), or Mara Provincial Park (entrance fee), or Lovely Day Park

NOTE: Winds on Lake Simcoe can pick up quickly. Please check the forecast and paddle within your ability. This route can also experience heavy boat traffic on the weekend. Please respect and obey the rules of the waterway. If you are paddling late in the season, duck hunting is open at McRae Point after Thanksgiving.