The Island supports a good variety of interior forest and edge species, and open meadow species. Waterfowl on Pigeon Lake can be viewed from various vantages around the island.

Access to this location is by water.

The closest access is the municipal boat ramp at the north end of Bear Creek Rd (44.527537, -78.482655). The boat ramp is crude and suitable only for small tin boats and canoes/kayaks. There is limited parking available. Please don't block driveways.

There are two small docks at the southeast of the island and a larger dock at the south end of the island (see trail map).

Trail maps are located at the access points and at trail intersections. Trails are well marked. Most are fairly easy walking with some elevation. There are a few sections that are a little more rugged. Closed footwear and long pants are recommended due to patches of poison ivy.

Material from KLT Website:

Big (Boyd/Chiminis) Island, located in Pigeon Lake, is the largest undeveloped island in the Kawarthas. The property is an area of natural and scientific interest, and home to wetlands, diverse forests, and a wide variety of plant and wildlife species.

First Nations peoples used this island as a meeting and harvesting place thousands of years ago. Today, the island has significant cultural value to Curve Lake First Nations and to many others in the area. The island was once owned and farmed by the Boyd family, one of the first settlement families from Bobcaygeon. The island is referred to as Big, Boyd or by its Indigenous peoples’ name, Chiminis.

Permitted activities include the following:

• Hiking
• Fishing
• Swimming
• Picnics
• Research and educational programs

Based on the wishes of the donor, who originally intended to develop the island but instead decided to make this generous donation; the restrictions of the Environment Canada Ecological Gifts Program through which the island was donated and for liability risk and insurance limitations, activities that are not compatible with protecting the island cannot be permitted.

Prohibited activities include the following:

• Overnight camping
• Hunting
• Vehicle use
• Alcohol
• Harm to wildlife, vegetation or other features
• Fires*
  *Municipality of Trent Lakes Open-Air-Burn By-law Number 2015-072 enforcement in effect. Offenders are subject to a penalty of not more than Five Thousand Dollars ($5000).

Use at your own risk and please tread lightly. Thank you for your continued support!

Link to Trail Map