Definition
Opinicon Lake is a freshwater lake located in Eastern Ontario, Canada, forming part of the Rideau Canal system and situated within the municipality of Rideau Lakes, Leeds and Grenville United Counties.
Overview
The lake lies near the community of Opinicon, approximately 120 km southwest of Ottawa and 70 km northeast of Kingston. It is a widening of the Rideau Canal channel and is interconnected with the broader Ridein River watershed. The lake serves primarily recreational purposes, including boating, fishing, and cottage residence. Its shoreline is lined with mixed hardwood forests typical of the Ottawa Valley region. Public access is provided via a small public boat launch and several private marinas.
Etymology/Origin
The name “Opinicon” is associated with the adjacent village of the same name. The term is believed to be derived from an Indigenous (likely Algonquin or Mississauga) word historically recorded by early European settlers, although the precise original word and its meaning have not been definitively documented. Accurate information on the exact linguistic origin is not confirmed.
Characteristics
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Hydrology: Opinicon Lake is part of the Rideau Canal’s navigable waterway, receiving inflow from the Rideau River upstream and discharging downstream through the same canal system. Water levels are regulated by the canal’s lock infrastructure.
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Physical Dimensions: The lake covers an area of roughly 4–5 km² (estimates vary among local sources). Exact measurements of maximum depth and surface area are not uniformly recorded in publicly available hydrographic surveys.
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Ecology: The lake supports typical Ontario lake fauna, including species such as largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), northern pike (Esox lucius), and various panfish. Aquatic vegetation includes submerged macrophytes like milfoil (Myriophyllum spp.) and emergent reeds. The surrounding forested shoreline provides habitat for mammals (white‑tailed deer, beaver) and bird species (great blue heron, loons).
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Human Use: Seasonal cottage development is prevalent along the shoreline. Recreational activities include canoeing, kayaking, and ice fishing in winter months. The lake is also a point of interest for Tourists traveling the historic Rideau Canal UNESCO World Heritage site.
Related Topics
- Rideau Canal (UNESCO World Heritage site)
- Rideau Lakes (municipality)
- Lakes of Ontario
- Ottawa Valley ecosystem
- Canadian cottage country culture
- Waterways management in Ontario
Note: While the information presented is based on publicly available geographic and municipal sources, specific numerical data such as exact surface area and depth may vary across publications.