Experience St. Marys from a different perspective!
St. Marys is situated at the junction of the Thames River and Trout Creek, both offering peaceful paddling experiences north of the falls.
A boat launch is available for drop-in at the southwest corner of Milt Dunnell Field, to start your adventure on either of the waterways. The lake adjacent to Milt Dunnell Field is known as Rice Lake. The lake is named for Henry Lincoln Rice, who owned the mill that was responsible for building the dam across the Thames River in 1908 to essentially create the lake.
Thames River and Trout Creek are suitable for canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and small boats with outboard motors. Power driven vessels are permitted in the Thames River and Trout Creek at a speed of no more than five kilometres per hour. There is a sign posted at the boat launch that announces the speed limit.
Trout Creek
Head east for a leisurely two kilometre round-trip paddle along Trout Creek, passing under four bridges and broad tree limbs. The turnaround point will reveal itself where trees bend into the river and the water depth becomes too shallow for further adventures.
Thames River
Head north along the Thames River for a unique view of the Grand Trunk Trail's Sarnia Bridge, and enjoy gliding through the peaceful waters as local homes evolve into trees, pasture and a scenic rural landscape. When water levels permit, you can paddle approximately three kilometres north as you spot different species of birds in the surrounding nature.
For more information on recommended paddling flows on the Thames River, visit the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority website and be sure to check out the safe boating guide for safety tips and requirements for pleasure crafts.