Why go
The Nine Mile Portage linked Kempenfelt Bay to the Nottawasaga River and was used by Indigenous travellers long before European settlement. It later became important to British supply movements during the War of 1812. Follow the signed route from Barrie toward Fort Willow if that history interests you, or stay by the bay for a shorter city visit.
What to look for
- Kempenfelt Bay forms Barrie’s waterfront.
- The Nine Mile Portage linked Lake Simcoe with routes toward Georgian Bay.
- Signs trace the portage from Barrie toward Fort Willow.
Useful to know
- Choose the bayfront for a short visit or allow a longer outing for the portage route.
- Check the route length and conditions before following signs toward Fort Willow.