Paddle Play in Bruce County

Paddle Play in Bruce County

Those warm, summer days are fast approaching, and it is time for planning great paddle adventures.  This is a plug for two fun, and unusual paddle events in beautiful Bruce County.  Firstly, the 20^th Annual North Canoe Race on the Saugeen River at Paisley.  Secondly, the Bruce Peninsula Multisport Race, based in Wiarton, and exploring the spectacular Georgian Bay shoreline from Cabot Head south.  These events are both full weekend, and family-friendly so bring the whole clan for outdoor, and active fun.

Now in its 20^th year, the North Canoe Race takes place on June 7-9/13, and is hosted by the Saugeen Paddlers Club in Paisley.  It celebrates Canadian history by re-enacting the traditions of the North Canoe, a 300 lb., 26 ft. vessel used by fur traders, and pioneers in Canada’s frontier days.  Teams of 6 to 8 people paddle these massive canoes in competition on the Saugeen River.  Land-based Voyageur Games follow, including children’s events.  Camping, campfires, storytelling, music, and shared food all happen on-site.  For more details, contact Ed Maxwell at ed.maxwell@bmts.com or 519-353-3194.  Also see www.paisleyvillage.ca and search North Canoe Race.

It is also great time to kayak the Saugeen River, which is navigable, and lovely from Hanover all the way to Southampton.  Traversing over 100 km of rolling forests, fields, and wetlands, paddling provides a special vantage on this rural countryside.  Wildlife includes deer, fox, raccoon, herons, waterfowl, and fish species.  Last year, there was an abundance of belted kingfisher along the river.  River conditions vary throughout the season, so do your research.  Water reports, and detailed maps are available from Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority at www.svca.on.ca/canoe.php .

The Bruce Peninsula Multisport Race ( www.brucepeninsulamultisport.ca ) happens on August 9-10/13 in Wiarton.  Both volunteers and competitors are welcome at this very inclusive community event sponsored by the Peninsula Adventure Sport Association (PASA).  Experienced paddlers are needed as water safety marshals for the racers, on both the short course on Colpoys Bay, and on the long course near Hope and Barrow Bays.  Competitors choose either a 25 km route, or a 100 km challenge, including kayak, bike, and run segments.  There are also youth, and children’s events, camping, music, food, and the Peninsula’s spectacular scenery.  It is a fun, and active weekend!

Bruce County offers a wealth of paddling opportunities on Lake Huron, Georgian Bay, the Saugeen, Sauble, and Rankin Rivers, and many inland lakes.  Journeying west from Wiarton, it is possible to follow the historic Bruce Peninsula Portage through Boat, and Spry Lakes to Lake Huron.  Grey-Bruce Adventours (www.facebook.com/greybruceadventours) offers guided trips to help you experience the area.  With so many adventures awaiting, come to Bruce County for great paddle play.  I hope to see you at the North Canoe Race and the Multisport!