COBOCONK
Canada’s Freshwater Summit has lots to offer the visitor on or off the water
Coboconk is a bustling summer hub along the beautiful Trent-Severn Waterway, and a busy stop for cottagers as well as campers at Balsam Lake Provincial Park.
This kiosks offers recommendations close to this community, many within walking distance. Use the links below to find attractions and amenities near you. Browse the Explore Further section or ask tourism centre staff for recommendations from the wider region.
TOP THINGS TO DO
CANADA’S FRESHWATER SUMMIT
The Coboconk wharf on Balsam Lake is officially recognized as Canada’s highest body of fresh water from which one can circumnavigate the world by boat. This means you can reach all four oceans starting in Coboconk without ever touching land.
While there are two higher navigable rivers, Balsam Lake is the only spot that gives the skipper the choice to go east to the Atlantic Ocean, west to the Pacific Ocean, south to the Caribbean Sea, or north to the Arctic Ocean.
To acknowledge the significance of this hydrologic feature in Kawartha Lakes, an interactive sign and photo opportunity has been erected on the municiple dock. There is a large outline of a boat that people can stand in front of to have their picture taken—it’s a fun, family-friendly attraction.
Coboconk celebrates its uniqueness every 3rd weekend in June with the Canada’s Fresh Water Summit Festival. The Summit Festival is a chance to come together as a community, as well as a celebration of history and importance of fresh water in Canada.
Where to Eat
It’s easy to work up an appetite after a day while exploring the Coboconk region. Scan the QR code below to browse the local listings.
Explore the outdoors
Balsam Lake Provincial Park
Balsam Lake Provincial Park has two hiking trails.
The Lookout Trail is a 2.6 km walk through eskers and kames formed over 10,000 years ago from the Wisconsin Glacier. Enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
The Plantation Trail is a 4.2 km moderate forest trek with both natural and pioneer highlights.
Access Point: 2238 County Road 48
Indian Point Provincial Park
Indian Point Provincial Park is located in Coboconk and is home to the longest stretch of natural shoreline in the Kawartha Lakes. The park offers scenic walking trails, birding and wildlife viewing opportunities. As it is a non-operating park, be aware there are no facilities or services available.
Access Point:Indian Point Rd
Cation Wildlife Preserve
Learn about successional landscapes and spot diverse wildlife at this unique Kawartha Land Trust property. With three trails of varying lengths, visitors can take a quick tour or extend their hike to just over 6km.
Access Point:1 French Settlement Rd #187
LOCAL ATTRACTIONS
Paddle the Gull River
J.E.H. MacDonald, one of the founding members of the Group of Seven painters, was inspired by the landscape south of Coboconk. You can explore the iconic Canadian scenery by paddling down the Gull River along the undeveloped shoreline of Indian Point Provincial Park. Turn around where the river empties into Balsam Lake for an approximately 10km round trip paddle.
Launch Point: Victoria St Boat Launch
Coboconk Jailhouse
Visit the Smallest Jail in Canada! Built in 1884, the Coboconk Jailhouse has a colourful history and retains main of its original 19th century features. Conveniently located near the water.
Address: 11 North Water St
Coby Go-Karts, Mini-Golf & Ice Cream
Coby Go-Karts, Mini-Golf & Ice Cream has everything you need for a day of family entertainment. Kids can also bounce on inflatables and try old-fashioned candy for a more colourful fun in cottage country.
Address: 6923 Hwy 35
Visitor Services
Coboconk businesses are happy to serve you. Scan the QR code to browse listings for the area and find the services you’re looking for.
Explore Further
Communities throughout Kawarthas Northumberland welcome visitors to experience their top attractions, local businesses, and natural beauty. Visit the Itineraries page to help plan your visit.
View Regional Itineraries
BOBCAYGEON
CAMPBELLFORD
Fenelon Falls
Lindsay
Buckhorn
City of Peterborough
Hastings
Explore Further
Scan the QR code below to visit the local tourism site from you own device.
