Kayaking and Canoeing in Annapolis Valley
A kayaking or canoeing adventure is a great way to explore the waterways in and around the Annapolis Valley. Imagine yourself gliding quietly over the water seeing sights only seen by water. If you get up early enough you may catch the deer as they come down to drink. Or maybe you will see the beaver as he floats the new log to his dam. On the many lakes, rivers and streams found inland there is always new woodland or a meadow to explore. Then if you really want to see some nice scenery try some ocean kayaking out on the Bay of Fundy. They tell me there are really some beautiful sights to be seen there. The Annapolis County Recrestion Services has sponsored the publishing of a great book for the canoeing enthusiast called "Canoe Annapolis County". The book features 130 pages full of route descriptions and 52 detailed maps to show you the best places to canoe in Annapolis County.
Dunromin Campsite and Cabins is located right across the causeway from Annapolis Royal. They have hourly and daily river and ocean kayak rentals there. For the beginners they offer kayak intro courses. They also give guided tours by the half-day or full day for both experienced paddlers and beginners. They tour the Annapolis Basin and the Bay of Fundy. You can check out the Allain creek tidal marshland, or check out the bird habitat on Goat Island. To inquire about their rentals and tours call 902 532 2808.
The Tobeatic Wilderness Adventures located in Bear River, Nova Scotia offers guided backcountry canoe and camping adventures. They have good rates and offer several different packages for daily, up to weekly tours. Phone 902 467 3242 for more information.
Located on Sandy Bottom Lake in Milford, Raven Haven Beachside Park offers both canoe and kayak rentals by the hour, half day or full day. Follow around the lake, or travel down the tributary and into the still waters. This is fun for the whole family. They also have paddleboats you can rent. Follow Route 8 south towards Kejimkujik and turn right onto the Virginia road. You will see the signs for Raven Haven a short ways up the road. If you would like more information about the facilities at Raven Haven call 902 532 7320.
The Melford House Resort is a non-profit resort which has a history in the area since the early twentieth century. It was a very popular spot for hunters and fishermen in the early 1920s and 30s and guest returned year after year. Today many of their guests are families of those first adventurers. Beside the "Main House" or Lodge there are also cabins nestled amongst acres of natural woodlands. Today canoeing is the main recreational activity at the resort and there are plenty to rent for those who do not bring their own. You may canoe to several different beaches close by for a picnic lunch, or spend days exploring the many Milford Lakes. They also offer kayak rentals for the kayaking enthusiast. There are two walking trails also starting out from the camp for those wanting to explore the local area by foot. Call toll free 1 877 532-5751 or local 902 532-2617 for more information.
The Shannon River Canoe Access Park is located at Albany Cross on Route #10 about 25 km from Middleton. It was built as one of two Millennium projects completed by the Municipality of Annapolis in 2000. Strategically located this park is the gateway to a number of paddling opportunities in Annapolis County. From here you have access to Shannon Lake and Nictaux River in the east, along with Shannon River, McGill Lake and Big Molly Upsim.
Hinterland Adventures started out in 1995 as an outdoor adventure company specializing in canoeing and sea kayaking in the Canadian wilderness in south-western Nova Scotia. Since then the company has grew and now offers a big variety of daily or multi-day on the water tours. They offer intro courses for the beginner kayakers and canoers. Their tours are designed for everyone offering a variety in the choices and duration of the tours. Travel the Sissiboo River and then out into St. Mary's Bay where you can explore the rugged coastline. They are located in Weymouth Mills, west of Digby. Travel the 101 past Digby to exit 27, then turn left onto route 1. Drive on this road until you see the school, post office and other businesses. At this point watch closely for the left turn to Weymouth Mills via the Sissiboo Road; also know as the Weymouth Mills Road. Drive 2 miles until the sign for Gates Lane. The sign for the Hinterland Adventures is at the top of Gates Lane. For more information call 902 837 4092.
Please stay safe when out canoeing or kayaking. Pay attention to your surroundings and your paddling. Always plan your trip well; there are several maps of the area to be found. The Energy Mines & Resources 1:50,000 topographic maps come highly recommended. Also make sure you tell someone where you plan to go and let him or her know an approximate time when to expect you back. To help plan ahead make sure to pick up your copy of Canoe Annapolis County - A Paddler's Guide to Outdoor Adventure. This fantastic book may be purchased from the Annapolis County Recreation Services by contacting them at rec@annapoliscounty.ns.ca.
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