The tranquil beauty of Kennisis Lake is enveloped in the pristine wilderness of northern Canada's Haliburton Highlands. The region has enchanted visitors for generations. Kennisis Lake covers 4,100 acres in Ontario. Except for two public access points, the 26-mile shoreline is privately owned. The area is often referred to as "Ontario's Cottage Country."
Quaint cottages dot the landscape around the lake. The "cottagers" are a diverse, welcoming bunch of year-round residents, seasonal 'homers,' and holiday renters. Kennisis Lake is a favourite destination for travellers seeking an extended getaway and for the occasional day-tripper. It is impossible to ignore the therapeutic qualities of Kennisis Lake. All-Season Cottage Rentals offers great recommendations to plan a day on the lake regardless of your length of stay!
Kennisis Lake Activities
The protected wilderness of the 120-square mile Haliburton Forest and Wildlife Reserve and the northern border of the 2,955-square mile Algonquin Provincial Park surround Kennisis Lake. The natural, freshwater lake is the largest in the region, and it is part of Canada's Trent-Severin Waterway. Featuring over 5-square miles of water surface, amazing shoreline scenery, and limited traffic makes water sports on Kennisis Lake especially appealing. The area offers abundant activities for water fanatics and landlubbers alike.
Fishing
Kennisis Lake is equally ideal for expert anglers and novice fishers learning the sport. An annual program has been stocking the lake since 1925 with thousands of trout. The favoured catch includes lake trout, white sucker, longnose sucker, yellow perch, brown bullhead, smallmouth bass, and largemouth bass. Ice fishing is also popular providing opportunities for year-round fishing on Kennisis Lake.
Boating
The breathtaking scenery along the rocky shores of Kennisis Lake is divine. Sighting local wildlife from a boat is a thrilling experience. Moose, bear, deer, waterfowl, and other indigenous mammals call the forests surrounding Kennisis Lake home and catching a glimpse of a wild animal common. Canoes, kayaks, powerboats, sailboats, and pontoon boats are all popular on the lake. Supplies, licenses, lessons, and boat rentals are available at the south shore marina.
Snowmobiling
Kennisis Lake has gained fame as one of Cottage Country's best winter playgrounds. Miles of trails are open for snowmobiles and snowshoeing adventures. The south shore marina is the designated winter headquarters for seasonal snowmobile rentals, sales, and repairs.
Skiing
The Kennisis Lake Cottage Owners Association (KLCOA) maintains 10 kilometres of ski trails in the conservation area. In addition to the slopes, there are miles of trails open for cross country skiing, dog sledding, and snowshoeing.
KLCOA sponsors lake events and celebrations throughout the year including the eagerly anticipated annual sailing regatta.
Where to Stay
The charming cottages along the 26-mile shoreline of Kennisis Lake are privately owned. Many are available for vacation rental. Haliburton Cottages is an excellent source for information regarding the Haliburton Highlands' region, Kennisis Lake activities and prime All-Season Cottage Rentals. Stay a day, a week, or longer there is a good chance you will leave hooked on Kennisis Lake.
