This weekend paddle is mostly defined by two moderately long portages over very steep terrain. McNally Bay is one of Frontenac's gorgeous gems.
All paths contained herein are approximation and are meant for planning purpose only. Do not use them for navigation. Please carry an accurate topographic map for all route finding.
The trip to McNally bay begins at the Big Salmon Lake boat launch area with a short paddle to your first portage (984m) visible from the pier. The first portage is the easier of the two, following a winding path through the forest. The way, however, is not flat; for both portages on this trip, make sure to put on proper footwear or risk injury.
Once the portage is complete, you will launch into Little Salmon Lake for another short paddle to the opposite shore of another narrow lake. The second portage (1,138m) is much more daunting. The distance is easily manageable, but it has some very steep sections traveling over rocky terrain. The first 200m is the hardest as it involves hiking up a steep incline from the beach to the top of a tall cliff. Take your time, don't risk injury by trying to rush; this is your last portage of the day, so make sure to complete it safely.
The remainder of your journey is a calm paddle through the edge of Frontenac Park. Head across the lake; you won't be able to tell that the far shore has an island blocking the view of the passage through to Kingsford Lake but trust that it is there. The passage is large enough for big boats, so it is hard to miss; be wary of shallow areas and rocks. You will see some cottages as the park boundary passes through the middle of this passage.
Paddle across Kingsford Lake and into McNally Bay; the campsites are all towards the bay's very tip. Consult your map for the location of your specific site.