With the summer-like temperatures hitting us in South Eastern Ontario recently, I took the opportunity to pack up the kayak and head to the Salmon River. I pulled my truck into the boat launch parking lot in Roblin and set out on one of my favourite kayaking destinations in Lennox & Addington.
The unspoiled beauty of my surroundings was everywhere I looked. The springtime water levels and lack of full-on summer leaves made the river look wider than what it will look in a few short weeks. It won’t be long before the dense tree line will be fully engulfed in various shades of green foliage.
The great thing about the paddling the Salmon River from this location is that after just a couple of minutes you’d swear you’re deep into undisturbed wilderness. The sounds of vehicle traffic along County Road 41 quickly disappear and are replaced by the soothing calls of various birds and the pounding of a woodpecker’s beak.
I also was lucky enough to spot a beaver as it crossed the river not far from me. I tried to get closer but I was easily spotted. With a slap of the tail he disappeared under water.
The plan was to paddle 7 km to the Teskey Road Bridge near Croydon before turning back, but with a fading evening sun, I begrudgingly changed my plans.
If you’re feeling ambitious, canoers and kayakers can continue along the east to Croyden, Tamworth and beyond, eventually connecting with Beaver Lake, however portages are required. Maybe by the fall I’ll be in good enough shape to give the full distance a try.
Strong emphasis on maybe.
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