Read more about why this quiet reservoir nestled in the base of the Niagara Escarpment is a great spot for families to kayak.
Our older son in his Pelican 80X kayak, enjoying a sunny day at Kelso.
Our Recommended Trip
Put In / Take Out: 5234 Kelso Rd, Milton, ON L9E 0C6
While there is a small boat ramp, we always launch off the gravel beach when we kayak at Kelso Conservation Area. Kelso Lake is right between the 401 Highway and the Niagara Escarpment. You can hear the passing traffic on Canada's busiest highway, and yet the scenery is breathtaking. Look up to see turkey vultures soaring above on the thermals and be amazed by the view of the towering limestone cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment. It's hard to believe you're only 5 minutes outside of Milton, one of Canada's fastest growing communities.
The stunning cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment tower above Kelso’s boat launch and rental fleet.
Trip Length: 1-2 hours, approximately 3.5 km around the perimeter.
Cost: Please note, this location requires an advance reservation. Advance reservations can be made on Conservation Halton's booking site. Book the Kelso Main Entrance (not Kelso Beach, which is the dedicated swimming area). Varies by age, rentals are available through the reservation system as well.
Degree of Difficulty: Beginner. This is a great spot to try out kayaking, and rentals are available throughout the summer.
Degree of Difficulty: Beginner. This is a great spot to try out kayaking, and rentals are available throughout the summer.
Recommended Gear
Life jackets and all Transport Canada required safety gear are always a must. Sunscreen and sun hats are definitely recommended when you're on the water.
Water guns recommended!
Water guns recommended!
Only 5 minutes from MIlton, Kelso is the perfect spot for an evening paddle to cool down after a hot day. Water guns optional, but highly recommended.
Life jackets and all Transport Canada required safety gear are always a must. Sunscreen and sun hats are definitely recommended when you're on the water.
A Little Piece of Paradise Close to Home
Kelso is a spot that will always have our family's heart. This small park, which is just outside of Milton, is a big spot for family activities, including hiking, mountain biking, skiing, snowshoeing, their climbing wall, swimming and paddling.
Kelso is quite a small reservoir, which makes it great for families and beginner kayakers. You can easily kayak the length of it a few times, or work your way around the shore and boardwalk area, looking for fish and waterfowl (such as green herons, cormorants, great blue herons and belted kingfishers, plus Canada geese).
There's a little jut that we call Pirate's Cove. This spot may be shallow, but there's always herons fishing over here, and it's a great spot to explore. When our boys went to the Way of the Woods camp offered by Conservation Halton, they hid treasure chests in the cove for the kids to pull up while canoeing.
Kelso is quite a small reservoir, which makes it great for families and beginner kayakers. You can easily kayak the length of it a few times, or work your way around the shore and boardwalk area, looking for fish and waterfowl (such as green herons, cormorants, great blue herons and belted kingfishers, plus Canada geese).
There's a little jut that we call Pirate's Cove. This spot may be shallow, but there's always herons fishing over here, and it's a great spot to explore. When our boys went to the Way of the Woods camp offered by Conservation Halton, they hid treasure chests in the cove for the kids to pull up while canoeing.
Kayak Along the Board Walk
Kelso is pretty at any time of year, but especially in the fall when the fall colors are on display.
One side of the lake is lined with a board walk, and makes a great spot to sit in the shade or to fish. It's also fun to explore near the boardwalk from your kayak if you can do so without getting in the way of those that are fishing!
As the season winds down, we take advantage of an evening paddle. Autumn temperatures drop quickly toward the end of the day, so warm, dry clothing (like this wetsuit, and polar fleece jacket and blanket) are a must to keep little ones comfortable on paddles in September.
There is a small sand beach at one end of the lake. On quiet nights in the fall, we sometimes land the kayaks here for a little break.
Sand beach in the swimming area at Kelso Conservation Area. Though typically very busy, it was quiet on this evening in September.
Glassy water reflects the sunset. So pretty!
Additional Reading
None
Outfitter Options
Conservation Halton Rentals - kayaks, canoes, pedal boats, Stand up paddleboards
