Nestled in eastern Ontario, the captivating Mazinaw Lake, the source of Canada’s Mississippi River, is steeped in history. This enchanting expanse of water has both charmed and awed those who ventured into its depths for centuries. Whispers of Mishipashoo, the mythical lake monster, echoed through First Nations tribes, who offered tobacco to ensure safe passage across the mysterious waters. While tales of the lake monster have faded recently, European settlers once reported sightings of this legendary creature. The sacred significance of the lake is exemplified by the ancient pictographs adorning the rock cliffs at ‘the narrows,’ where echoes dance in the air as the north and south basins meet. Over a millennium old, these vivid red ochre artworks have bestowed upon the lake its name: Mazinaw, derived from Algonkian for “painted-image lake.” Carved into the eastern shore rises Mazinaw Rock, a colossal cliff towering 330 feet above the glistening surface, often likened to Canada’s own Gibraltar.
This awe-inspiring landscape, coupled with sprawling waters spanning nearly 4,000 acres and plunging into depths of 476 feet, makes Mazinaw Lake a sought-after haven for tourists and seasonal dwellers. The lakefront boasts over 300 cottages and residences, several resorts, marinas, and campgrounds, many reachable only by water on the eastern shore. Despite being heavily logged in the late 19th century, the land’s unsuitability for farming has allowed it to revert to a flourishing second-growth forest. The myriad arms, bays, and inlets form an untamed, undulating shoreline where one can easily lose themselves in the solitude of nature.
Mazinaw Lake is a paradise for water sports lovers, providing many activities such as waterskiing, wakeboarding, tubing, power boating, and peaceful paddle boat excursions. A water control dam sustains regulated depths at ‘the narrows,’ ensuring navigability between the basins during parched late summers. The rocky coastline presents an idyllic setting for exploration by kayak or canoe. Positioned east of Kawartha Lakes and west of the Rideau Lakes, with Belleville and Kingston just two hours south, Mazinaw Lake offers an ideal locale for summer getaways or winter ski retreats, with Ottawa a mere three-hour drive to the northeast.
Fishing enthusiasts flock to Mazinaw Lake, enticed by its deep waters, which harbor a thriving population of lake trout and other prized species, including walleye, bass varieties, musky, pike, and perch. Proper licensing regulations and credit limits are strictly observed, with local marinas offering fishing boat rentals, fuel, bait, and tackle. Ice fishing in secluded coves yields bountiful results when winter blankets the lake while snowmobilers and winter sports enthusiasts traverse the snowy landscapes. Moreover, hunting season beckons those seeking moose, deer, or black bear, with resorts extending their services year-round to cater to ice fishermen and winter sports enthusiasts, ensuring there’s never a dull moment at Mazinaw Lake.
Bon Echo Provincial Park, a beloved natural oasis encompassing 16,415 acres along Mazinaw Lake’s shores, is one of Canada’s cherished treasures. Set near ‘the narrows,’ the park offers diverse camping options, extensive hiking trails, fishing spots, sandy beaches, a visitors’ center, boat launches, rentals, biking trails, and a quaint gift shop featuring an art gallery. Regular pontoon cruises ferry visitors to ‘the Rock’ and various points of interest, complemented by educational programs for all ages. The park serves as a sanctuary for ancient cedars and a nesting ground for the endangered peregrine falcon. At the same time, its breathtaking allure continues to inspire artists and photographers drawn to its scenic panoramas.
Perched upon a renowned granite cliff overlooking the lake, a stanza from Walt Whitman’s immortal “Song of Myself” is etched in bold letters, a tribute to the poet as commissioned by the park’s original proprietress, Flora MacDonald Denison. Known as ‘Old Walt,’ this engraved section endures as a landmark cherished by rock climbers, though strict prohibitions safeguard the nearby pictographs and inscriptions. Beyond the lake’s shores, visitors may uncover many activities and historical gems, from horseback riding stables and ATV trails to immersive tours of natural limestone caves and visits to the Cloyne Pioneer Museum and Archives. With downhill ski resorts within easy reach and quaint villages offering local festivities, Mazinaw Country is a tapestry of diverse experiences, from cozy bed-and-breakfasts to farm markets and charming cafes.
Embracing the essence of ‘cottage country,’ Mazinaw Lake is a haven for visitors seeking a tranquil retreat amidst nature’s embrace. Accommodations range from lakeside estates to private cottage rentals, with numerous resorts featuring campgrounds for a rustic escape. Modern chain hotels are a rarity, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the tranquil allure of lakeside living. Mazinaw Lake embodies a sanctuary where one can relish the simplicity of cottage life, forging unforgettable memories in this picturesque corner of Canada.
