Rice Lake

Rice Lake Ontario is the ideal destination for anglers, nature lovers, hikers, water sports enthusiasts, cottagers or anyone looking for a place to escape and relax with beautiful surroundings in fresh air!

Part of the Trent-Severn Waterway, a National Historic Site of Canada, Rice Lake is very shallow and approximately 37 kilometers (23 miles) long and 4.8 kilometers (3 miles) across. Tributaries are the Otonabee River and the Indian River; the lake empties into the Trent River near Hastings. There are 27 islands of which Long Island near Bewdley is the largest spanning about 200 acres. The smallest is Little Grape Island at the head of the lake, this is about 25 by 35 feet, sustaining one lone gooseberry bush.

The lake is steeped in heritage and culture. Rice Lake was named for the wild rice which once covered the lake, stretching down from the north shore in long fingers and in some places almost reaching the other shore! The rice was a welcomed source of food in the winter months for pioneers and native people. You can visit the communities of Alderville First Nation on the south shore or Hiawatha First Nation on the north shore for a unique insight into the geologic, natural, aboriginal and cultural heritage of the Kawarthas over the last 10, 000 years!

Rice Lake has a great selection of year round recreational activities with a variety of fishing opportunities: boating, paddling, hiking, cycling, bird watching, ice fishing, snow shoeing,  and snowmobiling.

Fishing has long been a tradition on the lake for many families. Walleye (pickeral), bass (both small and largemouth), and panfish are the most sought after species; however, muskie and carp also share the waterway and the fun. Boat rentals are easily found around the lake at many cottage resorts, marinas, and bait shops. 

Over 40 accommodation encompass the shores of Rice Lake: cottages, RV parks, bed and breakfasts, and recreational resorts that offer a variety of outdoor activities right on site! Casual dining is available in the surrounding villages of Bewdley, Gores Landing, Harwood, and Hastings. A variety of artistic shops and galleries dot the shore as well making Rice Lake an all around great spot for a vacation.

Related Links

Rice Lake Today

Rice Lake Tourist Association

Rice Lake Fishing Board

Alderville Black Oak Savanna