Trip Rating: 4 / 5
Kate and I decided to give this trip a try on a windy fall day. The Lake Ontario forecast was calling for waves that were clearly too large to paddle safely, so we opted for a smaller inland body of water instead.
Luther Marsh Wildlife Management Area is a unique water feature located in the headwaters of the Grand River watershed. Luther Lake, approximately 1,400 hectares in size, was created by the construction of Luther Dam in 1954. The lake is surrounded by wetlands, open fields, and forests, creating habitat for a remarkable diversity of birds, animals, plants, and trees.
On this trip, we saw more birdlife, nests, and wildlife than on almost any other paddle in recent memory.
Launch and Access
In the fall, access to Luther Marsh operates on an honour system. A small kiosk near the entrance provides parking slips. Visitors fill one out, place their fee in an envelope, and deposit it in a secure collection box.
Paddling the Marsh
After launching, we headed toward Windmill Island. If you look at the map, the island’s outline resembles the blades of a windmill. The wind was already strong, and after a short but energetic crossing, we took shelter behind the marsh vegetation surrounding the island.
We then set out to circumnavigate Big Island in a clockwise direction. The scenery here is particularly distinctive. Thick marsh grasses line the islands, and the area was alive with Canada geese and large flocks of birds. We also spotted several large, unoccupied nests, though I am not certain which species built them.
The marsh is crisscrossed by numerous narrow inlets and channels. None are particularly long, but they offer calm water, shelter from the wind, and consistently interesting scenery.
Everywhere we paddled, there were natural details worth stopping to examine. In one area, the remains of what appeared to be a large nest had been scattered by the wind. In another section, dozens of old tree stumps rose through the water in an unexpectedly orderly pattern.
The channels between the islands were the highlight of the trip. They offered the most shelter from the wind and made for the best photographs. Overall, Luther Marsh is an excellent option for a short paddle, particularly when conditions elsewhere are less inviting.
Important Notes from the Park
- Non-motorized watercraft, including canoes, kayaks, and rowboats, are permitted beginning July 31. Before September 1, use the launch at the main gate. After September 1, watercraft may be launched from other designated boat access points.
- The north edge of the lake is marked with orange buoys to restrict access to a wildlife sanctuary and heronry.
- Boat Access Form: For safety reasons, all paddlers must complete a boat access form with emergency contact information. Forms are available at the park kiosk or can be downloaded in advance.
- Be aware of hunters during open seasons. It is best to avoid the marsh during peak hunting periods.
- More than 262 bird species have been recorded at Luther Marsh, making it one of Ontario’s most important birding areas.
- The area also supports 35 species of mammals, ten amphibian species, and 11 reptile species. Notable sightings include northern flying squirrels, Butler’s garter snakes, and spotted turtles.
If you are interested in supporting Kayak Ontario, consider joining one of our kayaking lessons, clinics, or events. More information is available in our online shop.
This trip generally requires a minimum of Level 1 paddling skills, with higher skill levels recommended depending on wind and conditions.
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