“Skip a stone. Take a hike. Sit a spell. Listen. Daydream. Just breathe. This is lake living.”
Stoney Lake is a perfect weekend getaway and is located in Peterborough County in Central Ontario, Canada.
Situated amidst the beautiful pinery plantation, sits what is popularly called the Jewel of Kawartha Lakes region. It is located two hours northeast of Toronto.
The lake is part of three interconnected lakes in the Kawartha region namely – Upper Stony, Stony, and Clear Lake to the Northeast, center, and Southwest respectively.
1. History
Explore the rich history of this region with remarkable archaeological shreds of evidence in the provincial park nearby. The region is said to be inhabited by indigenous Canadian people or the First Nations for thousands of years.
Later accompanied by European settlers the lake became an important part of the Trent-Severn Canal system making it a part of the commercial waterway.
In the early 20th century people from Ontario bought land and built cottages with basic amenities. This generated income sources for the population settled down at Mc Cracken’s Landing, Mount Julian around the lake.
Now, the principal use of Stoney Lake is for recreational purposes.
2. Where to Stay
The cottages sneaking out of the pine plantations promise you a memorable stay adjoining the shores of Stoney Lake.
The summer cottage area offers its guests a selection between a wide range of vacation rentals between around 63 cottage rentals and 79 house rentals.
The cottagers offer visitors amenities like access to the lake, BBQ grill, WiFi, access to fishing, a fully equipped kitchen, and gym space for fitness freaks.
You can enjoy your stay by renting a cottage with a private waterfront where you can appreciate the panoramic views of the lake.
Use their canoe, floating raft, paddle boat, and kayak facilities to pleasure yourself with the adventure thrill or just rest taking advantage of their spacious bedroom with a cozy indoor ambience.
Spend evenings near the fire pit and feel alive watching the splendid sunset views while playing with your kids and pets.
Choose your vacation rentals as per your requirements to spend cherishing moments with your family and friends to escape the hustle-bustle of the city.
3. When to Stay?
The Ontario province experiences four distinct seasons over the year: summer, fall (autumn), winter, and spring.
A summer stay at Stoney Lake is a great delight to experience. With comfortable warm outdoor temperatures find yourself rejoicing in various activities.
The season drags in fishing tournaments, fireworks, art and craft shows, and camps for children.
Winter season on the lakeside gives one an unforgettable thrilling experience with sporty ventures. Excite your adrenaline rush by participating in hockey, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and ice skating.
4. What All to Do?
Being one of the popular fishing destinations in Ontario, the region attracts many anglers owing to the fishing opportunities.
The waterbody is home to various sportfish like smallmouth and largemouth bass, walleye, and Muskie.
Other fish species spotted here include Yellow Perch, Rock Bass, Cisco, Common Carp, Channel Catfish, Black Crappie, and Bluegill.
Boats can be accessed at several marinas, mainly near Burleigh Falls. Additional access points to the lake include Crowes Landing and McCrackens Landing.
5. 3 Best Destinations to Visit in Stoney Lake
5.1. Stoney Lake Trail
Take a step into the wilderness while hiking along Stoney Lake. The trail is a moderate-level hiking experience for about 10km while viewing the scenic views of the adjacent Stoney Lake.
One can witness the richness of flora and fauna while in the region.
Navigate the trail with good signages and there is the provision of QR codes to provide additional information on ecology and geology. The trail is open for hiking, mountain biking, and running.
The trail flaunts its adventurous hiking experience for its visitors with beautiful views of the lake.
5.2. Burleigh Falls
One of the attractions around the lake in the quiet environment is to hear the soothing waters of Burleigh Falls.
The crystal clear water cascading with the first rays of the sun kissing the horizon and peeking through the red pine trees paints just the perfect picture for one’s eyes.
The region also gives loads of options to cater to your growling tummy after a pleasant morning for a quick brunch in nearby restaurants.
5.3. Petroglyphs Provincial Park
The Petroglyphs Provincial Park is an ancient archaeological treasure that has been famously called the ‘Teaching Rocks’.
The petroglyphs are considered to be dating back 600 to 1100 years old and were carved by Algonquian or Iroquoian-speaking people in the pre-Columbian era.
The place has spiritual significance and is the most extensive collection of rock art in Canada about the First Nations. Rock art includes images of animals, reptiles, and shamans.
If you happen to visit this place make sure you don’t record or click pictures due to the spiritual significance of this place.
6. Some Amazing Facts to Know
- Ontario is larger than France and Spain combined and is made up of 15% water & 85% land mass.
- The lake encloses Fairy Lake Island with an enclosed waterbody called Fairy Lake.
- Ontario comes from the Iroquois word Kanadario which translates to beautiful water.
- Ontario has over 250,000 lakes and comprises 1/5th of freshwater in the world.
- The Eastern White Pine which is the official tree of Ontario lives up to 250 years, and is the tallest tree in the province
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
7.1. Which Is the Best Season to Visit Stoney Lake?
The best seasons to visit the lake are Summer and Winter. Both seasons bring various activities to keep you entertained while your stay at the cottage nearby the lake.
7.2. Is the Lake Open for Fishing?
The lake is one of the best lakes in Ontario for fishing activities.
The fishing map is also available which features fishing spots and the depth of the lake. Popular fish species include smallmouth bass, bluegill, wall eye, and muskie.
7.3. Which Are the Places Near the Lake to Explore?
The lake has surrounding places like the Petroglyphs Provincial Park, Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park, and Burleigh Falls to explore nearby.
7.4. Are There Restaurants Near the Lake?
Yes! The region boasts restaurants and resorts near the lake.
Boathouse Pub, Mount Julian, Hobart’s Lighthouse, Lovesick Lake, etc are the few restaurants offering delicious food and beautiful waterfront views of the lake.
7.5. How Many Islands Are There in Stoney Lake?
There are around 1000 islands in Stoney Lake.
Famous among them being the Juniper Island, Rankin’s Rock, Horseshoe Island, Doe Island, and Fairy Lake Island.
8. Conclusion
If you want to tap into this calmness and are craving a recess from the daily routines, Stoney Lake will show you this exact image of pure peace in its beautiful still waters.
The lake inhabited at least 2 centuries ago will give you a taste of cottage-style living and make you rethink on relationship with nature.
Treat yourself to this blissful escape in Stoney Lake surrounded by landscape, pristine waters, history, and man-made amenities.
