Rice Lake, a sprawling 24,748-acre body of water in south-eastern Ontario, is a gem awaiting discovery. This picturesque lake forms part of the Trent-Severn Waterway, with the Otonabee River feeding its waters and the Trent River carrying its flow outward. Extending nearly 20 miles in length and over three miles in width, Rice Lake draws its name from the once abundant wild rice that adorned its shallow edges. Despite the altered landscape due to the Waterway’s construction, which altered the lake’s elevation and led to the disappearance of many wild rice beds, Rice Lake’s charm remains intact with a variety of lakefront accommodations that provide visitors with unrestricted access to the lake and its surroundings., Nestled amidst the idyllic expanse of the Ontario wilderness, Rice Lake stands out as a top tourist spot renowned for its exceptional fishing opportunities. Reputed as the lake with the highest fish population in all of Ontario, Rice Lake’s relatively shallow depths of up to 26 feet nurture a vibrant ecosystem teeming with weed beds and mudflats. These rich waters support thriving panfish populations, attracting a range of predatory fish that make angling a sought-after pursuit. Notorious for its legendary muskie, with some specimens weighing up to 30 pounds, Rice Lake also hosts largemouth bass and walleye and numerous professional bass competitions annually. Anglers might reel in crappie, perch, smallmouth bass, bluegill, and even the occasional carp along the shores. Though often grouped with the glacial chain of Kawartha Lakes, Rice Lake’s geological origins distinguish it from its neighboring bodies of water. Believed to predate the glacial era, Rice Lake is one of the oldest water bodies in the region.
The perimeter of Rice Lake is heavily developed, with an array of resorts, cottages, inns, and vacation rentals catering to a diverse range of preferences. Tailored mostly to fishing enthusiasts, these lodging options include docks, boat launches, and boat rental services. Camping enthusiasts can find well-appointed campgrounds dotting the lake’s periphery, while day-trippers can access public boat launches in Bewdley and Roseneath. Explorers navigating the serene waters of Rice Lake will encounter a scattering of captivating islands, which are remnants of past geological phenomena. The remnants of the Cobourg and Peterborough Railway are of particular interest, a historic landmark that once spanned the lake and now lies in disrepair. Rice Lake offers many activities for those inclined towards outdoor sports, from golfing on scenic courses to hiking and cycling in the neighboring provincial and conservation parks. Travelers can embark on a leisurely drive through rolling hills, exploring historic villages that house artisan studios, antique shops, and specialty boutiques.
Noteworthy stops include the village of Bewdley on the lake’s western shores and the town of Hastings to the east. On the northern fringes of Rice Lake lies the Serpent Mounds Park, managed by the Hiawatha First Nation and home to ancient burial mounds dating back over 2,000 years. Visitors can further explore the Native Reserves of Alderville and Hiawatha and the communities of Roseneath, Bailieboro, Gores Landing, and Harwood, each offering unique insights into the region’s cultural heritage. Formerly known by the Mississauga people as Pem-e-dash-cou tay-ang or Lake of the Burning Plains, Rice Lake’s name reflects the lush hunting grounds on its southern shores. Wildlife thrives in the enchanting environs of Rice Lake, with white-tailed deer, moose, and elk making occasional appearances. Riverside residents such as muskrats, beavers, fishers, and minks share the landscape with aerial tenants like bald eagles, osprey, and blue herons. The lake’s varied birdlife, which includes woodpeckers, loons, and year-round flocks of geese and ducks, is a sight for birdwatchers to behold. Rice Lake offers a haven for relaxation and recreation, with its inviting waters beckoning anglers, swimmers, and boaters alike. Indulge in local delicacies, seek unique souvenirs, or cast a line to land a prized catch. Just a short distance from Toronto, Rice Lake is the quintessential destination for all water enthusiasts seeking a perfect day out.