Episode 2: A Paddler's Guide to the Lost History of Canoe Lake's Algonquin Park

Located about 14 km in from the West Gate and unbeknown to most, Canoe Lake has a deep and colourful history well beyond the Tom Thomson Memorial Cairn and Totem Pole and the Canoe Lake Cemetery, where according to some, the spirit of Tom Thomson once rested for a while. This podcast shares the highlights of about a dozen landmarks around the lake. For those who are checking it out in a canoe, you’ll have to use your imagination as little if anything of most of these landmarks remains.

First we will start with our launching spot on Portage Bay, which is the home of the Portage Store. Then we’ll head north up the lake to a few notable sites mid lake including Braught’s Lighthouse, The Tom Thomson Memorial Cairn and Totem Pole and Whiskey Jack Creek. Then we’ll paddle to the north end and head to Joe Lake Dam and investigate landmarks that are no longer there including Joe Lake Station, the Algonquin Hotel  and Colson’s Store. Then we’ll back track and head up Potter’s Creek and check out the remains of the Trestle Bridge and Omanique’s saw mill as well as Canoe Lake Station. Then we’ll head back down the lake and end with an view of the former Town of Mowat and Mowat Lodge on the north eastern shore.