Paddle Lunenburg/Queens

Lake Route 10: Shingle Lake

Record #: LQR0045
Last Modified: 11 Apr 2019
Last Full Update: 11 Nov 2014

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Public Bulletin
LIABILITY DISCLAIMER
 
Neither South Shore Connect.ca nor the Lunenburg-Queens Recreational Coordinators/Directors Association own or control the canoe routes, portages or campsites listed in this guide, and assume no responsibility or liability for the safety of those using the canoe routes, walking the portages, or using the campsites. 
 
lt is recommended that users approach all canoe routes, portages and campsites in a safe and responsible manner. Conditions can change through fluctuating water levels, natural debris, and logging activity. Arrangements must be made directly with the owners of the portages and campsites. 
 
South Shore Connect.ca and Lunenburg-Queens Recreational Coordinators/Directors Association are not liable for any errors or omissions in this guide.

Location

Located In South Shore Region
Where To Find Us
Bridgewater, NS
Areas Served Lunenburg County ; Queens County (NS)

Contact

E-Mail chaughn@chester.ca
Phone 902-275-3490
Contact Chad Haughn, President, LQRCDA

Description & Services

Information SHINGLE LAKE LAKE ROUTE 10 
 
A wilderness lake, lined with slanting slate ledges, with narrow islands and coves made for exploration by canoe or kayak. 
 
Where: About 30 km west of Bridgewater 
Skill Level: Beginner 
Time: Day or overnight trip 
Distance: 18 km around lake 
 
Click map to enlarge 
 
 
This rocky lake is mostly undeveloped and quite different from nearby Molega or Ponhook Lakes. It is almost divided in two at Turtle Brook. The area is lower lying and the lake is full of slate ledges and rounded rock outcrops especially on the north shore. Cow Moose Bay in particular is rocky with low cliffs and passage ways suited to exploration in a small boat. From here you can paddle up through the lily pads to the Lagoon or up Barren Meadow Brook if the water is high enough. The lake gets very narrow in spots and here you will have to pick your way past the rock ledges in low water. 
 
According to a geologist (and our current South Shore Paddling Club president), some minor gold production was carried out here between the lake and Route 325. He tells me that “the curvature of the lake is a result of the lake’s proximity to the centre of a geological dome. “ Gold panning anyone? 
 
Water Safety Notes 
 
Wind - Shingle is a windy lake which may cause swells since the lake is shallow and require extra care to avoid the rocks. 
 
Landing spots - Landing is tricky on this lake especially in a kayak due to the ledges and slippery rocks. The water depth drops off quickly in most places but a suitable place can be found if you look around. 
 
Points of Interest 
 
1 Abandoned log cabin - This hidden cabin (about 5m x 5m) is partly collapsed now but is still fascinating to discover. The logs have been chinked with smaller poles. The eye-catching roof line is 
made of curved poles at either end with parallel poles in between.On the western side of this point is a small stony beach suitable for landing in low water at least. An area around the cabin has been brushed out making it a good camping spot. 
 
2 Barren Meadows Brook - This is a marshy area with low lying shrubbery and a stream just wide enough for a small boat. It is a worthwhile side trip but take care not to disturb wildlife and ducks in nesting season. 
 
Portages 
 
P1 - A short portage may be necessary at Turtle Brook to get into the eastern half of the lake. 
 
How to get there 
Take Exit 13 off Highway 103 north on Route 325 and 208 to Pleasant River to the west end of the lake. Turn left on a dirt road at the United Church in Pleasant River toward New Elm and travel 2.7 km to a small white bridge. Tracks into the lake at the east end of the lake are not passable in a car. 
 
Access Point One 
Access to Shingle Lake is up a small stream about 100 meters long. It may be possible to paddle in high water. In low water you have two options. One is to line your boat along the river bank being careful not to slip into the water. The second is to carry your boat along a rough path in the woods on the left. 
 
Picnic 
The slanting slate shores around this lake make for unique picnic spots but it may be difficult to pitch your tent. 
 
Connections 
 
Pleasant River - River Route 7 
From Access Point One, you can go downstream away from the lake and into a large stillwater to connect with the Pleasant River. 
 
 
Topographic map - Bridgewater 21 A/7
Eligibility Ages: 16 year(s) and up 
 
Children under 16 with adults - please use own discretion depending on skill level

Special Information