Mountain Biking & Paddling

Everyone has driven over it, many have boated on it, but few have really experienced it. Laurenson Creek is very much overshadowed by our crown jewel, Lake of the Woods; however, it is a waterway worth exploring.

The best way to really see the creek is to paddle its calm waters. Whether by kayak, canoe or paddleboat, you can definitely feel a part of this unique ecosystem when you slow down and blend in with the wildlife. We suggest paddling the length of the creek starting at Laurenson’s Lake, which acts as the creeks headwaters where it cuts behind the 80 ft cliffs overlooking the lake. Drop your rudder and meander through the marshes, watch for the beaver house on the shoreline. If you’re a bird-watcher, you’ll love how close you can get to the heron’s fishing the shallow water. Overhead bald eagles are often seen riding the thermals looking for food. Many other species of bird make this urban wilderness their home. Many people have also made the creek their home. Often spotted enjoying a cold drink on the deck or working hard grooming the lawn, these friendly creatures offer up a wave as you pass by.

Highway 17 carries the busy traffic above you as you float under the first of three bridges. No road hazards for you but watch out for the pigeons that roost in the girders. Please try not to scare the mother ducks leading their chicks across in front of your bow and keep an eye out for the turtles sunning on the log. The creek really narrows through bridge #2 so make sure there is no boat traffic coming before you enter what feels like a rock cave. This brings you to what I like to refer as little Venice, a busier area filled with boathouses, docks and homes right at the waters edge, a large apartment building and even Safeway, the only one I have ever seen that has boat docking. After stocking up on munchies, head west under the last bridge and you find yourself on Lake of the Woods.

Waves Kayaking Adventures is located upstairs from the Hardwear Company on Main Street. You can rent kayaks, canoes and paddleboats by the hour or for a full day and launch right from Kenora’s Harbourfront. Don’t know how to paddle a kayak? They also offer lessons. Call (807) 468-1226 to book.

Stephen Strachan
Paddling Enthusiast

Mountain Biking

Cycling in the Kenora area is a do-ityourself adventure experience. There are some very challenging trails close to town. For the sensation of exposed rugged bedrock and a wonderful view of the town and the lake saddle up and ride to the top of the Little Amik Trail. The trail takes a small loop and is moderately challenging if only approximately one kilometer long. A good warm up.

From the parking lot you can choose to go a little more hardcore to the North or take a scenic ride to the beaches to the South and West. Taking a turn to the left and past the Paper Mill will bring you to Scramble Ave. Go to the end of the street and you will find an advanced level trail which leads to Garrow Park on Rabbit Lake. Be cautious. Many riders have been injured on the rocks, roots and rivulets. Make your way to the East end of Rabbit Lake and you’ll find a trailhead which leads to the pipeline and hydro line (a snowmobile trail beside the Youth Centre). From here turning left, to the West, will bring you back toward town but you will have to conquer a few hills and swampy sections. Turning right, to the East, is the beginning of the ‘epic’ ride. Big hills, big swamps and some endurance oriented excursion grinding will give you hours of sweat and enjoyment. Don’t worry about getting lost - you are never very far from a road or highway to head home on. If you know your gonna go hard, fill your water bottles and tell someone where you plan to go. Ask at a local bike shop - Such as Olympia Cycle & Ski (807) 468-5377 - for more information. Bug spray with DEET is recommended.

Just West of Casey’s Bar & Grill you’ll find scenic Sandy Nook and even further West (just past Keewatin) on Hwy. 17, look for the Mackenzie Portage Road which leads to the moderately challenging, botanically varied Vernon Trails. A 40 min. drive north on Hwy. 596 will lead you to the Minaki Yurt Adventures race trail. It is a well developed and maintained 25km course featuring some moderate to advanced level riding. They offer bike rentals, lessons, great local hospitality and unique Yurt accommodation options. For those with a pioneering spirit and explorers enthusiasm there is great potential for discovering old logging roads and all terrain vehicle trails in the forest areas. Adventure tourists can take pleasure in the wilderness, wildlife, landforms and the unique history of the Kenora area as one of the most rugged destinations they may ever ride a bike through.

Brad Hertz
Mountain Biking Enthusiast