A Paddler's Guide to Killarney and the French River - Softcover

Kevin Callan is the author of ten books, including the bestselling A Paddler's Guide series and, most recently, The Happy Camper. He is the recipient of two National Magazine Awards and is a featured speaker at many of North America's largest paddling events. He lives in Peterborough, Ontario.

Killarney Canoe Routes
Introduction

When I think back to my past canoe trips across Killarney Provincial Park, not all were pleasant outings. Some involved hauling gear and canoe over incredibly steep, jagged portages, dredging through thick, bug-infested bogs, and even setting up on a campsite already occupied by a black bear. My arms have strained trying to paddle hard against a constant onslaught of wind and waves, and there were a few stormy nights when I truly feared my flimsy nylon tent would become the next Noah's Ark.

So why do I still go? Quite simply, it's to be close to this magnificent wild landscape, to be invigorated by the park's turquoise lakes and white quartzite hills, and to go home with enough good memories of wilderness travel to get me through to another season. Simple? That's exactly why I like it. Canoeing through the park isn't easy at times, but it's a lot easier than dealing with the stress of the real world.

In this book, you'll find a number of trips I've tried through the years. The trip descriptions are not definitive guides. A lot of the routes are possible from other access points, but these are the ones that were most memorable to me.

A note before you go: please make sure to plan your canoe trip before setting out. The park can get busy at times, so reservations are usually needed far in advance. Also, remember you are only allowed nine people per site, no bottles or cans may be carried in, and campsite locations may change over the years so make sure your park map is up to date. Also, before heading out, check with park staff regarding water levels, fire bans, and nuisance bear reports. A little pre-trip planning can greatly reduce your chance of having a "misadventure" out there.