Guelph Lake

Infobox lake
lake_name = Guelph Lake
image_lake = Guelphlake 2005 0723FM.jpg
caption_lake = Swimmers at Guelph Lake
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location = Guelph, Ontario
coords = coord|43|36|N|80|14|W|type:waterbody_region:CA|display=inline,title
type = artificial lake
inflow = Speed River
outflow = Speed River
catchment =
basin_countries = Canada
length =
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Guelph Lake is a reservoir located on the Speed River in the northeast corner of Guelph, Ontario. The lake was created with the construction of the Guelph Lake dam in 1974, and is part of a 1,608 hectare (3,971 acre) conservation area maintained by the Grand River Conservation Authority.

The dam that created the Guelph Lake reservoir is one the main flood control mechanisms on the Speed River. Each spring, excess precipitation is collected in the reservoir, which is drained in the autumn, and in summer the water is released slowly to regulate the flow of the river.

The conservation area has two beaches as well as a concert area with a living roof. The concert area is located on a peninsula in the middle of the lake and is used mainly for the annual Hillside Festival [ [http://www.hillside.on.ca/ Hillside Festival - Official Website ] ] .

Activities

Camping

Guelph Lake also has a camping area with 104 serviced sites with electricity and water and about 190 unserviced sites in a variety of locations, including riverfront and forest.

Boating and canoeing

No outboard motors boats are allowed on Guelph Lake. The only motorized boats permitted on the lake are Jon boats, which are small row boat-style boats with an electric trolling motor. These type of boats can be rented from the boathouse at the main beach. Canoes and kayaks are popular on the lake and can also be rented from the boathouse.

Guelph lake is also home to a sailing club.

Hiking and cycling

Approximately five kilometers of hiking and biking trails wind their way through a wide variety of natural wooded areas as well as tall stands of reforestation inside the conservation area. In addition, there is a recreational trail from downtown Guelph that follows the river to Guelph Lake.

wimming

Since the reservoir was created in 1974, swimming has been a popular activity in the conservation area. Two large, sandy beaches and changing facilities are located on the lake, but neither beach is patrolled by lifeguards.

Winter activities

Along with snowshoeing and hiking, the conservation has ice fishing in the winter as well and provides equipment for rent.

References

External links

* [http://www.grandriver.ca/index/document.cfm?Sec=27&Sub1=126&Sub2=0 Guelph Lake GRCA Site]
* [http://www.grandriver.ca/parks/directionsguelphlake.htm Map to Guelph Lake]