Discover Golden Lake

Golden Lake offers several distinct focal points for trip planning: the lakeshore, Algonquin history and winter gathering spots. When looking for a hotel in Golden Lake, first consider whether culture, waterside scenery or a cold-season trip will shape your stay. These themes relate to Golden Lake itself and a few destinations in the surrounding area.

Algonquin culture and history

The Algonquin Veterans Warrior Memorial in Pikwakanagan (Golden Lake) is dedicated to all Algonquin warriors who served Canada in war and peace. The virtual exhibition Faces of Pikwàkanagàn complements this memorial focus with a visual timeline showing the resilience and continuity of the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan since the designation of Reserve No. 39. A memorial and a digital historical portrayal thus stand alongside one another, each with a different focus.

In the vicinity of the destination, the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation are an Algonquin community on the shores of Golden Lake and the Bonnechere River. The Algonquin Way Cultural Centre (Omàmiwininì Pimàdjwowin) works to revitalize, reintegrate, promote and protect the cultural traditions, customs and practices, heritage, language and arts of the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation.

Pikwakanagan’s traditional powwow takes place every year on the third weekend of August. Visitors can experience Algonquin dances, songs and drumming there; there are also craft and food stalls. Check dates and visitor guidelines with the First Nation before your trip.

Lakeshore and natural features

Golden Lake has rocky shoreline outcrops, sandy beaches and clear water. A free public boat launch is maintained at Bonnechere Lodge on the lake. Alongside the general landscape features, there is therefore a specifically named boat launch at Golden Lake.

Beaudry’s Creek can be seen along a section of the Deacon Escarpment Trail; as it flows toward Kilby Road, it forms small waterfalls and rapids. The provincial Crown land known as the Deacon Escarpment Conservation Reserve covers 2,200 hectares; the elevation difference from the Bonnechere River Valley is more than 150 metres.

In the surrounding area, the unmarked Deacon Escarpment Trail is a moderately difficult to difficult hike. The round trip to the summit is about 2 km. Check local access and conditions before hiking. The B101, originally also called Pakkotinna, runs north from Highway 60 to Highway 62; its starting point is just north of Golden Lake.

Winter skating spots

The Moon Skating Loop is created and maintained for winter gatherings; ice conditions vary. The skating rink and ice rinks are located on Island View Drive. Parking is available at Island View Park, formerly Goldcrest Lodge, and at Red Pine Camp. Ice operations are seasonal and weather-dependent. Check local conditions before planning to skate.

Discover more destinations: Petawawa, Killaloe, Greater Madawaska, Foresters Falls, Pembroke, Arnprior, Barry's Bay, Renfrew

For the broader travel overview: Renfrew County.