Trip Rating: 4.5/5
The Toronto Islands form a semi-man-made chain of islands that shelter Toronto Harbour from Lake Ontario. What looks simple on a map quickly becomes layered on the water — narrow channels, shallow ponds, interior marshes, ferry lanes, and sudden openings to skyline views. It is one of the most unique urban paddling environments in Canada.
Timing matters here. Our paddle took place on a weekday in October, and even then the water was busy. In summer, traffic can range from lively to overwhelming, with ferries, sailboats, tour boats, and private power craft all sharing limited space. In the shoulder seasons, however, the islands soften. Boat traffic eases, wildlife becomes more visible, and the experience shifts from hectic to immersive.
At the right time of year, this trip can feel surprisingly peaceful. Boats can be stashed and locked while you wander the islands on foot — ice cream stands, quiet paths, restaurants, the petting zoo, and Centre Island all sit just a short walk from sheltered interior waterways. For paddlers seeking calm water with complex surroundings, fall is ideal.
Launch Site
Parking is the main logistical challenge in Toronto. We launched from Cherry Beach, which has one of the larger and more reliable parking areas in the city. We arrived around 9:30 a.m. and found a spot easily. By early afternoon, the lot was full.
- Launch: Cherry Beach (wet sand launch)
- Address: 1 Cherry St, Toronto, ON
- Parking: Free, but fills quickly - I have heard reports that it is no linger free.
- Facilities: None at the launch; gas station nearby
Route Overview
From Cherry Beach we paddled west around the point of the Eastern Channel before turning north into the Inner Harbour. The transition is immediate and dramatic — open water and industrial edges give way to sheltered marina traffic and city reflections.
This section requires active awareness. The Toronto Gap is busy and unforgiving of distraction. Ferry routes, tour boats, and recreational traffic converge here, and paddlers must hold position, cross deliberately, and remain visible.
Once inside the islands, the environment shifts again. Narrow creeks, shallow ponds, and quiet corridors wind through wetlands and trees. It is easy to forget that you are paddling beside a city of millions. Wildlife is common — herons, geese, raccoons, and even mink inhabit the interior spaces.
Trip Length
Distance varies depending on exploration. The route can be kept relatively short or extended significantly by weaving through interior channels and ponds. Expect a half-day paddle with time built in for stops, photography, and on-foot wandering.
Cost
$0
Difficulty & Safety
This is a difficult trip to rate cleanly. The interior island channels are calm and forgiving, but access requires exposure to Lake Ontario conditions and dense, unpredictable marine traffic.
- Outer Harbour crossings are exposed and busy
- Ferry lanes and marinas demand constant vigilance
- Weather can change quickly on open water
This route should only be attempted with appropriate safety gear, strong situational awareness, and the confidence to hold position in traffic. Conditions dictate the experience as much as skill — choose the day carefully.
If you are interested in supporting Kayak Ontario, please do so by attending our kayaking lessons, clinics, and events. More information is available through our shop.
This trip requires a minimum of Level 2-equivalent skills or higher, depending on conditions.
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