Queenstown Wharf to Lower Musquash Island
Video
Quick Facts
Features | river, wildlife |
Access | boat launch |
Route Difficulty | moderate |
Water Body Type | river |
Current Type | minimal |
Route Type | linear |
Route Distance | 9.5 km return |
Portage Distance | none |
Estimated Time | 4-5 hours |
Elevation Change | 5 metres |
Scenery Rating | beautiful |
Cell Reception | minimal |
Fees | none |
Description
The Lower Musquash Island Route take you straight along the top of Long Island. This takes you out to the main channel of the Wolostoq (St. John) River. You will find the most boat traffic in this main channel. Be cautious of their wakes. They are sometimes larger boats, and you don’t want to swamp your boat.

After passing by the sandy point of Long Island, you will see the shores of Lower Musquash Island across the main channel. The lake in the middle of this large island was my goal for the day. I crossed the main river and turned right, making my way down along the shore. Beautiful hardwoods line the island. Eventually I came to a channel on the left that feeds the lake. The channel is surrounded by mostly grasslands. On my visit I passed a flock of black ducks, a family of beavers, and saw several large eagles. When I got into the lake, I was amazed to see the shallow waters rippling with what I later learned were spawning Blueback Herring. You can watch the video from my adventure here.
Wind and motorboat traffic are the biggest hazards you will run into in this area. I would choose either Otnabog Lake or the channel along Long Island if wind is an issue. Both options are more protected. They also have less boat traffic and the boat traffic they do have tends to be smaller. These would be much better options if you have kids with you.

Map
Directions
For directions to Queenstown Wharf, go to the Queenstown Wharf page. The boat launch is next to the wharf on the right.

Trail Last Hiked: May 26, 2024.
Page Last Updated: December 26, 2024.