Trip Rating: 4.0/5
I have paddled in the Long Point area for many years. It is convenient for anyone living south of Hamilton and offers easy access to camping and wildlife. Visually, though, it can feel repetitive. The land is flat, the horizon long, and the scenery subtle. That said, wildlife thrives here, and the water is full of fish. Hunters and anglers know this well.
Because I have spent so much time in the area, I set out to find a route that felt genuinely engaging rather than familiar. That search led me to an unlikely destination during one of my usual Google Maps wanderings: The Chip Ship. Highly rated, tucked deep into the marsh, and awkward to reach by water, it seemed like a reasonable challenge. It turned out to be one of my favourite day paddles in the region.
Route Overview
We met in Port Rowan and launched from a small sheltered bay near the parking area. It would also be possible to start farther up Big Creek near Crommiller’s, depending on how much distance you want to cover.
From Port Rowan, the route heads toward Long Point Provincial Park. This section involves a fair amount of open water unless you choose to make a wide arc through the bay. The lake here is extremely shallow, which makes wind direction particularly important. East winds can build uncomfortable conditions quickly. This route works best in summer under prevailing southwest winds.
It is worth hugging the shoreline initially. Along the way, you pass the mouth of Big Creek. River mouths in this region are surprisingly difficult to identify unless you know what to look for. Turning into Big Creek is not dramatic, but it is quietly pleasant, offering a break from open lake conditions.
The scenery here is mostly marsh, with Long Point stretching endlessly into Lake Erie in the distance. As you continue, narrow channels begin to appear, lined with cottages and docks. The setting feels oddly intimate, like a low-key, rural Venice.
The Reward
After winding through the channels, the paddle delivers you straight to the reason this route exists: The Chip Ship. The fries are exceptional. The poutine is widely regarded as the best around. The pickle fries inspire devotion in others, though I remain unconvinced.
Launch Options
For a full-day paddle, Lion’s Park in Port Rowan is the most satisfying option. It provides enough distance to justify the meal reward and makes the route feel like a complete journey rather than a simple out-and-back.
Après Paddle Options
- The Boat House Restaurant – reliable fish and chips.
- Uncle’s Country Coffee – excellent when it was open.
- The Chip Ship – the primary motivation.
Cost: $0
Skill Level: Minimum Level 2 skills recommended. Shallow water, wind exposure, and open crossings demand competent judgment.
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