Balsam Lake is a beautiful place situated in the city of Kawartha Lakes Region, Ontario, Canada. It attracts several visitors who love nature and wish to take a break from their daily lives and repeated phone calls.
It is also a great place to enjoy a relaxing yet fun getaway with your family or friends, as the lake has several attractions.
For example, at the shore of the lake, Balsam Lake Provincial Park and Indian Point Provincial Park are present, which offer various fun activities for everyone.
Places to Visit In and Around Balsam Lake
1. Balsam Lake Provincial Park
This place is considered one of the best campgrounds in the area, and it offers many exciting features like fishing, boating, hiking trails, canoeing, etc.
Wetlands and marshes are also found in the park, which is critical for the survival of sensitive wildlife and plants.
Fun Fact – the park was said to have been covered by glaciers for more than 2,000 years.
1.1. Swimming
The waters at the Balsam Lake Provincial Park are clean and very calm, and safety measures are also present. The beaches here are also huge and offer long sandy coastlines, offering the perfect place for a fun day with the family.
Remember to carry water shoes and be careful while playing on the sandy beach.
Also, note that some beaches may not be very clean, leading to an unpleasant smell.
1.2. Hike in The Lookout Trail
The Lookout Hike has a distance of 2.6km, and it would take approximately an hour to cover the trail.
On the way, you can enjoy the greenery, the sweet sound of birds chirping, and magnificent views of the provincial park.
1.3. Bird Watching and Fishing
The park has various birds, such as warblers, vireos, Hummingbirds, cardinals, and woodpeckers. You can get the best view of these birds in spring and early summer.
There are also many spots for fishing in this park, and they offer fishing lessons through various camps.
1.4. Balsam Lake Farmer’s Market
The locals of the place run the Farmer’s Market. Here, you can find handmade products like soaps, ornaments, furniture, vegetables, and baked food items.
1.5. Natural Heritage Program
The site offers visitors a National heritage program, perfect for those who love wildlife, forests, and rocky areas.
As part of the Heritage Program, you can go camping, enjoy campfires, be a guide, and give presentations.
1.6. Camping at a Cottage
While the park makes for an excellent campground, this option is for those who don’t prefer camping out in the open.
They provide every amenity inside the cottage, including food facilities, so you can cook any food as per your taste and enjoy the camping trip. You can also bring your picnic tables to enjoy a meal outdoors.
2. Indian Point Provincial Park
This park, located on the north end of Balsam Lake, has one of the region’s longest undeveloped shorelines. This lakeshore property also consists of a low limestone cliff.
The park attracts few visitors, making it a great, quiet, and peaceful getaway destination. However, various activities are still here, such as bird watching, hiking, etc.
There is a 14.2 km long trail here, which takes 3 hours or more to complete, but it is worth it. The parks’ beauty also adds to the experience.
Do note that camping is not allowed here.
3. Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
It is located at Como Park in Minnesota, approximately an hour from Balsam Lake. This place serves as a zoo, park, and conservatory owned by Saint Paul Parks, which acts as a recreation.
The entire Como Park is around 300 acres and is accessible to the public. There is also a 2.7 km paved path around the lake, which you can explore.
Additionally, rentals of paddleboats, canoes, paddle boards, and family bikes are available.
Other facilities include Como Town Amusement Park, picnic shelters, mini golf, and a Fishing Pier.
4. SEA LIFE at Mall of America
Located in Minnesota, also an hour from Balsam Lake, this magnificent aquarium is distinguished by a 300-foot, 360° transparent acrylic tunnel, home to freshwater and saltwater organisms.
Some exhibits present here:
4.1. Brave the Rainforest:
This two-and-a-half-story rainforest provides a 360-degree experience with rain, fog, and various sounds and smells.
Here, you will see piranhas, crocs, and more through various interactive exhibits and multiple pop-up tanks that let you get closer to the animals.
4.2. Coral Caves:
Here, you can spot fishes like clownfish and regal blue tang. There is also a unique, colorful live coral exhibit that features various coral creatures.
4.3. Ray Lagoon
This is a simulation of a bright tropical 15,000-gallon beach, which also features a two-story giant shipwreck. You will spot stingrays, sharks, and guitarfish here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Where Is Balsam Lake Situated?
Ans. Balsam Lake is in the City of Kawartha Lakes in Ontario, Canada.
Q2. Where Is Balsam Lake Provincial Park Located?
Ans. Balsam Lake Provincial Park is on Balsam Lake in south-central Ontario. The park is a few kilometers southwest of Coboconk on the Trent Waterway.
Q3. What Is Balsam Lake Famous For?
Ans. Balsam Lake is well-known for being the world’s highest navigable body of water.
Q4. What are some fine dining restaurants to try at Balsam Lake?
Ans. There are many restaurants to list but to name a few- Thirsty Otter Tavern & Resort, Indian Head Supper Club, Balsam Lake café, etc.
Q5. What Are the Activities of Balsam Lake Provincial Park?
Ans. There are many activities for people to enjoy, like bird watching, hiking, swimming, canoeing, and many more to have a good time.
Conclusion
Balsam Lake is a natural treasure and a site of great importance, with a location allowing visitors to explore various wonderful attractions nearby.
From swimming and hiking in the Balsam Lake Provincial Park to getting up close with sea life and the SEA LIFE Aquarium, visitors of all ages can find something to enjoy in this region.
While this article only mentioned four main attractions near the lake, the lake is a great destination to enjoy nature and calmness.
Hence, if you are a nature lover, you must visit this place at least once in your life to witness the magnificent wonder of Balsam Lake, and while you are there, you must also explore the fantastic nearby attractions to make the most of your trip.
Last Updated on by Ananya Sreen
