The Big East Lake access point at 5128 Hwy 118, located between Carnarvon and Bracebridge, serves as the primary launch for paddlers entering the Poker Lakes Area of the Haliburton Highlands Water Trails.

The area encompasses roughly 1,800 hectares of backcountry with access to twelve lakes. Note that the parking lot sits away from the water's edge, requiring paddlers to carry gear approximately 250 metres to reach the launch.

From this access point, paddlers can explore Big East Lake itself — a large lake featuring numerous arms, bays, and islands — or cross Highway 118 to reach Bentshoe Lake and connect to a network of smaller lakes and ponds including the Crane Lakes, Poker Lake, Muck Lake, and Cinder Lake.

The area suits novice paddlers and offers opportunities to observe wildlife, flora, and fauna. Most access points in the area are unsupervised, so carrying a map and being prepared for changing conditions is strongly recommended.