From the summit to the shallows… and into new friendships. ⛰️🛥️
Elapsed time
5h 25m
Avg. speed
5.8kts
Distance
31.3nm
Moving time
5h 25m
Max. speed
15.8kts
Lake Couchiching, Orillia, Simcoe, ON, Canada
Jul 22, 2025 - Jul 22, 2025
Last night we anchored at Balsam Lake—841 feet above sea level, the highest point in the world reachable from the ocean by continuous waterways. Maybe the thin air went to our heads, because we were up early to begin locking down starting with the Kirkfield Lift Lock, the second highest in the world. Some drama: we lost a fender in a lock and launched a dinghy rescue mission… but a kind crew in the next lock scooped it up for us. 💪🏼🚤 The day that followed was a mix of nerves and awe—extremely narrow, shallow canals with sheer rock faces just below the surface, all visible in the crystal clear water. Eventually, we crossed a calm Lake Simcoe and pulled into Port Orillia, where we finally connected with other Loopers we’ve crossed paths with before. Tonight: docktails with new friends. Tomorrow: errands, fuel, and prepping for the next leg of the journey.
Boat & Crew
Big Wave
Meridian, 411