After a busy couple of days, it was finally time on Monday morning to do some more paddling, but this time we had plans to do something a little more adventurous than George Lake and try our luck on Georgian Bay.
Monday Morning
It was a beautiful morning with very little wind so we headed to the Chikanishing River put in location (advice from The Camping Family). There were multiple kayaks (which are really ideal for the size of this water) preparing to head out, and we were a little nervous about heading out in the canoe, but we planned to stay close to shore, watch the wind closely, and not go too far.
We meandered through the river and eventually entered Georgian Bay. Wow! Even Hayden was impressed at how he couldn’t see the land on the other side. As we paddled through the little islands, we stopped to get out and explore one. It was not very big, but I wanted to get out for just a minute and it had an easy access point.
Chik River 
Onward to open bay 
Georgian Bay 
Island stop 
Beauty on the bay 
The wind did start to increase as we headed back to the opening of the river so we took the time to circle one of the bigger islands before heading back to the Chik River. If it was a warmer morning we might have considered swimming (although the water was REALLY cold!)
Afternoon Hike!
Since it was another gorgeous afternoon, we decided to hike the Crack trail. We had hiked this trail two years ago, but since there are spectacular views from the top we had no issues with doing it again. Even Hayden didn’t mind doing this hike again because he loves scrambling up the huge rocks. This is a popular section of the trail because of the views and how accessible it is. Unfortunately, that has resulted in a section of the trail being eroded so badly from hikers that the park staff have re-routed it to prevent further destruction.
The Beginning 
Heading up 
The Crack 
Oh those views! 
Family photo op 
Re-routed trail 
All done 
These Keens are made for hiking
A little side story: It is important to carry a first aid kit with you, no matter the length of the trip. On our way up this trail we met a family, who were a little worried about the length of the trail and was going to give up. I encouraged them to continue as they were so close to the top. Within minutes of us reaching the top, they all showed up as well. I was happy for them to have made it, but then the mom said that her son was complaining about bad feet, only to realize he had no socks on and the poor kid had a nasty blister forming. I happily jumped to help as I had our first aid kit and fixed him up with some Moleskine. I did both his heels as I didn’t want the other one also forming a blister on the way down. They were so thankful for this, but really, that’s what we do right?
Monday Evening
Back at camp we were now all starving and we cooked up our pizzas and the remainder of the potatoes and veggies from the day before. My boys complimented my pizza cooking skills saying this was the best ones cooked yet. Not sure what I’m doing differently but I’ll accept the compliment.
As our trip was winding down, Hayden found some friends in the neighboring campsites. He played with them for the remainder of the night, and made some s’mores to share as I took advantage of this time to sit by the fire and read more of my book. Eventually it was time to sleep as we had a long day drive home.
Tuesday Side Stop
On our way home, we passed by the French River Provincial Park office and I wanted to stop to get my patch and sticker. Plus I wanted to go on the cool bridge that goes over the river. Upon arriving we got our souvenir items, hugged a bear, and then headed outside to the trail. Unfortunately the bridge was closed and we could not walk on it. I was glad that we didn’t have to waste a huge amount of time getting here as that would have been a little upsetting. Instead we headed down a path to the river just to get some pictures.
I think someone was a little too big to give a hug LOL 
closed 🙁 
Overall we had a wonderful trip and I know Killarney will be on the schedule again. Next time I would love to plan a backcountry trip, so I better have my calendar alarms set for that.
We hope you have enjoyed hearing about Killarney. If you have any tips on places to go here in the backcountry we would love to hear about them below. Thanks for reading!
Wonderful memories made. <3