Trent-Severn Waterway (Peterborough) to Bay of Quinte (ON) / August 13 - 20, 2015
August 13, 2015
We left lock 19 quite early this morning (Peterborough) because we had a fair distance to cover; 62km to get to Lock # 18 at Hasting. The first section we paddled was in a river from Peterborough to Rice Lake. We were surprised to see so many turtles and snakes on the way. We even saw a wood turtle, an endangered species. We had a good head wind at times with gusts exceeding 30km/h. Once we got to Rice Lake, we paddled upwind to reach the channel. Then we set up the sail (a rare occasion). We managed to do about 2 hours of sailing (Pierre must still paddle in the stern while I control the sail at the bow). Afterwards, we continued towards Hastings lock where we set up our camp for the night.
August 14, 2015
We knew that today the weather would not be very good, but we wanted to move on. During the first two hours, we had intermittent rain. We could hear the thunder south of us, but nothing to worry about. We contacted Karen and Ed whom we had met at Love Sick lock a few days earlier. Since our meeting, Karen wrote to us a few times and invited us to stop at their home. In the afternoon we made it there. Karen greeted us with a very good lunch and Ed arrived shortly after. We chatted for a couple hours, then Karen and Ed reiterated their offer to stay overnight. It was getting late in the afternoon, and there was still rain coming, so we decided to accept their offer. We had a wonderful afternoon with them and what a nice evening. Karen loves to cook and she is very talented. We ate very well! What a nice coincidence to have met this lovely couple in a lock. All these wonderful encounters make this trip a fantastic human experience. Thank you both for everything!
August 15, 2015
For a week, we have been trying to get to Trenton by August 15 in order to rent a car and go to Pauline's surprise party. She will turn 50 tomorrow. Terry repeatedly reiterated his invitation to participate in this great event, but this morning, we realized we couldn’t make it. While Pierre was talking with Ed, he offered us his truck. Although we had a 3 hour drive to Big Chute, Ed and Karen have very generously offered their help again.
After a hearty breakfast prepared by Ed, we left on the road to Severn, or more precisely Big Chute. We arrived at about 14:30 at the marina. Terry and Dylan (Terry’s grandson) picked us up. It was a great surprise for Pauline. She had not suspected anything. During the afternoon and evening, we had the opportunity and the pleasure of meeting Terry and Pauline’s family and also getting better acquainted with Amy and Robert, who we had met in Florida. It was a completely unexpected, but beautiful day. Ed and Karen thank you for your great generosity. Terry, thank you for giving us the opportunity to be part of Pauline’s 50th celebration.
August 16, 2015
Presents, good breakfast ... happy birthday Pauline!!! What a lovely family you and Terry have. We treasure good memories of your 50th celebration.
After a swim in the bay with the girls and Dylan, Robert and Terry brought us back to the marina where Ed's truck was. We soon hit the road and enjoyed the beautiful scenery. It is rare for us to have the opportunity to see the inner landscapes.
When we arrived at Karen and Ed’s home, we were once again very well received. We had a wonderful afternoon and a nice evening all together. It will be hard to leave tomorrow. We quickly created a great friendship with Karen and Ed, two fantastic people.
August 17, 2015
This morning we left Seymour Lake and Ed and Karen. Karen did not let us leave empty handed. She prepared us a lunch bag with lots of drinks. Karen and Ed, thank you a thousand times for everything. You are amazing people. We will miss you a lot.
We paddled to lock #8 today. We went through the staircase lock at Healey Falls. This place is always so meticulous. Throughout our journey, the staff responsible for maintaining and operating the locks were kind and interested. The quality of the people working for the Trent-Severn Waterway is really nice and sure made the experience friendly and fun.
August 18, 2015
Today marked the last full day spent on the Trent-Severn Waterway. We went through locks 7-6-5-4 and 3. It was at the bottom of Lock # 3 that we decided to set up camp for the night. It was a beautiful day, but very hot.
August 19, 2015
Another very hot day. Last night was not restful because of the heat and humidity, but we do not complain. Fall is almost here and warm days will soon be rare. We have already noticed that the leaves are changing colour.
We locked through lock 2 and 1 this morning before heading south to the Bay of Quinte. There were white caps in the bay and a good head wind at the mouth of the river. We crossed on the south shore of the bay and paddled along the coast to have protection from the strong wind. We stopped for the night at Baycrest Lodge & Marina on the recommendation of Cindy and Grant (As the Crow Flies). Thank you both for your help and information. We were greeted by Matt, a very nice employee. We camped on a beautiful location on the bay. Thank you to the owners Carmen and Dave for allowing us to stay here.
PS Cindy and Grant: Norm says hello! :)
August 20, 2015
Forced rest day. Strong winds and rain (expected in pm and all night). The camp is ready for any eventuality.
In the morning, we met Larry, a 72 year old man living nearby who loves to kayak. He is full of life. In the afternoon, he came back with lots of homemade food prepared by his wife Debbie. Thank you both for the delicious food.
