Kayaking & Dogs

I have two big passions... kayaking and dogs. Some may think that my two passions can't be combined but yes it is absolutely possible to kayak with your dog. Not all dogs are going to want to go kayaking. Some dogs do not enjoy the water or may be extremely fearful. If your dog falls into this category it is important not to force them if they are uncomfortable. Most dogs can be trained to sit nicely in a kayak and even enjoy the time out on the water. It is important though that all dogs are not only trained properly but also have the right safety gear.

1. Kayaking Dog Essentials
2. Kayaking Dog Do's and Don'ts

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Why I Combine Kayaking With Backpacking

A few of my reasons for backpacking, adventuring these past 60 years has been just that, adventure. I enjoy the unsureness of what’s around the next turn, what’s over the next hill. I also enjoy the feeling of self sufficiency. The feeling that I am totally self dependent. In a world where our society wants to protect us from everything and provide a program for any unforeseen event in our life, it’s a good feeling to know that all you have is yourself. And, of course I love the loneliness of solo backpacking. I don’t carry any gadgets with me such as cell phones, iPads, GPS’s, etc. I love to be alone with “it” and me. Observing, planning and overcoming the next challenge on the trail. I was introduced to the Kindle this year and that has lightened my backpack load some. Instead of carrying a book I now carry my Kindle for reading at night or if I decide to make a stop during the day. Most of my backpacking is done in the late fall to early spring… My kayak camping extends from spring until fall. Finding deserted beaches and sandbars is pretty easy in my coastal area. So what has this all to do with kayak backpacking? Read More: Why I Combine Kayaking With Backpacking

Ontario Kayaking Trips – Hidden Gems on a Cottage Vacation

I was first introduced to kayaking on a trip out to Ontario from England, years ago. We stayed at a vacation rental cottage on a small lake and the cottage came with two kayaks, paddles and life jackets. We'd never kayaked before and although it was a little nerve wracking getting in the first time, I was amazed at how stable the kayaks were, and what fun we could have with them. We explored the lake and all the little inlets; came across a pair of loons nesting; snapping turtles sunning on a log, and on one amazing day, came around a bend in a small bay to see a young moose just getting out of the water. It was one of those hidden gems we never expected to see on that amazing vacation.

Lots of lakes and rivers

Ontario has 250,000 lakes and thousands of miles of navigable rivers so there are many locations and opportunities for a kayaking or canoe trip. From a half-day paddle around one of the inland lakes, finding tiny inlets to explore and wildlife to see, to a longer camping and portaging trip in a National or Provincial Park, there is something for everyone. Renting a waterfront cottage is a great option as many of these vacation rentals offer non-motorised boats included in the rental rate. That could be a paddleboat, canoe, row boat or if you're lucky, a couple of kayaks.

Read More: Best places to kayak