Paddling the Lakehead
Regional Conservation Area

The Lakehead Regional Conservation Authority is the steward and owner of 2500 hectares of land within the Lakehead Watershed. Just over half of those lands are home to ten Conservation Areas. Two of these areas, Hazelwood Lake and Hurkett Cove, list paddling as one of their recreational uses.

Hazelwood Lake is located just a 25-minute drive from Thunder Bay. One of the most proximate in-land lakes to the city, this Conservation Area is the perfect place for day trippers. The lake has three water access points – including a canoe launch – three hiking trails, and a beach area. The Authority’s website has a downloadable canoe map to help you plan your paddling route.

Hurkett Cove provides access to Lake Superior, situated on Black Bay approximately 40 minutes east of Thunder Bay. Located within the small Township of Dorion, Hurkett Cove is a birder’s dream, having been referred to as the “Pelee of North”. Species that have been spotted here include blue jays, bald eagles, and short-eared owls, to name a few. Amenities at the cove include a pavilion with picnic tables, a well-marked hiking trail, and outhouse toilets.