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Whether you’re a keen angler looking for a serene fishing experience or simply love the idea of spending your days paddling and portaging through a remote area of Northern Ontario, our bring-your own-equipment Self-Guided Canoe Trip packages provide the ultimate active vacation for nature lovers.

• self-guided adventures into Wabakimi Park
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14 Amazing Canoe Trips in Canada

By Mikaela Ferguson

Few things go together as perfectly as Canada and canoeing. Canada’s wilderness contains an unfathomable amount of water - some 3 million lakes and 8,500 rivers. Indigenous People built canoes to navigate the geography, later teaching European settlers, who used the canoe to expand across the country and trade. 

Today, the canoe is still thriving, though now as a means of recreation, rather than for transportation or livelihood. A few canoe trips in Canada have garnered recognition across the country and internationally, making them a worthy addition to any adventurists’ bucket list.

In this post, I’d like to introduce you to some of the best canoe trips in Canada. This isn’t an exhaustive list - with so many lakes and rivers, it would be impossible to include all of the amazing places to canoe. I hope you find inspiration for your next trip!

Canoe Trips in Ontario

Algonquin provincial park.

Algonquin is the quintessential destination for canoeing in Canada. With over 2,000 km of canoe routes, there is a seemingly endless list of possible canoe trips. The park is best known for its small and calm lakes, manicured campsites and the occasional moose spotting.

Getting to Algonquin

Part of Algonquin’s popularity is its proximity to two major Canadian cities. The distance between Toronto and Algonquin’s West Gate is a little over three hours, while the East Gate is within three hours of Ottawa. Connecting the two gates is Highway 60, a two lane highway which cuts directly through the south part of the park. The most popular access points, like Canoe Lake and Opeongo Lake, are adjacent to Highway 60. 

Canoe Route Ideas

Burnt Island Lake - Burnt Island Lake is a stunning lake located a little north of Highway 60 and accessed from either Canoe Lake or Opeongo Lake. Due to its beauty and proximity to access points, Burnt Island Lake can be very popular, and as such, it can be difficult to secure reservations here.

Barron Canyon - Towering cliffs of red, white and black rock characterize the northeast edge of Algonquin. Don’t forget to plan a stopover at High Falls to explore a natural waterslide.

Tim River - The Tim River lies on the west side of Algonquin. You won’t find much, if any, current on the Tim River; its water gradually meanders toward the centre of the park where it eventually empties into the Petawawa River. The Tim River is best known for its wildlife spotting, especially in the spring and fall where moose sightings are very common.

Petawawa River - Algonquin is mostly a destination for flatwater canoeing, with an exception being the Petawawa River. The river originates at Ralph Bice Lake, in Algonquin’s north end, and flows to Lake McManus, at the east edge of the park. The river is punctuated by a series of swifts, Class I and Class II rapids and the occasional chute. It’s a thrilling ride for intermediate and experienced whitewater paddlers.

A view of The Natch on the Petawawa River, one of the best canoe trips in Canada. 

Killarney Provincial Park + French River Provincial Park

The La Cloche Mountains are one of the most beautiful destinations in Ontario. Lying on the northern edge of Georgian Bay, the region is characterized by white quartzite mountains, pink granite and shimmering blue water. There are a few excellent provincial parks in the area, two of which are home to some of the best canoeing in Canada.

Getting to the French River

The French River starts at Lake Nipissing, near North Bay, and flows to Georgian Bay, directly south of Sudbury. Highway 69 passes over the river, and there are several access points on either side of the road.

French River Canoe Routes

Lake Nippising to Hartley Bay - To experience all that the French River has to offer, begin your journey at Lake Nipissing. There is a put in at Sucker Creek Landing, just off of Route 64. The first part of the journey is along the southern edge of Lake Nipissing, where you’ll paddle east and navigate between small islands while keeping the large expanse of Lake Nipissing to the north. After turning south and then southwest at Sandy Island, the French River picks up. As you paddle to Georgian Bay, you’ll go through gorges, a few rapids and eventually end at the French River Delta. The entire route is approximately 170 km and could be paddled in one week.

West Channel Loop - For something shorter, consider the West Channel Loop. This route starts at Hartley Bay Marina and goes down the West Channel. Then, trace the Georgian Bay coastline going east before turning north onto the Main Channel and returning to Hartley Bay. Such a route would be about 50 km and three days of paddling.

Getting to Killarney

Killarney Provincial Park lies toward the end of Highway 637, southwest of Sudbury. There are several access points on all sides of the park, though the most popular are those just off the highway, like George Lake and Bell Lake access points.

Killarney Canoe Routes

Bell Lake to David Lake - This is an excellent route if you’d like to climb Silver Peak, the highest point in the park.  On a clear day, you can see all the way to Georgian Bay! Starting at Bell Lake, you’ll paddle to Three Mile Lake, Balsam Lake and then David Lake. You can either paddle back the way you came, or go directly to Bell Lake through a narrow and winding creek (though there sometimes isn’t enough water to make it through).

George Lake to OSA Lake - George Lake is the most developed access point in Killarney; both the visitor centre and campground are here. Although this can make George Lake quite busy, especially on weekends, all that busyness is worth it once you arrive on OSA Lake. After George Lake, you’ll paddle onto Freeland and then Killarney Lake before arriving on OSA Lake. The campsites on the islands are the best.

View from the top of Silver Peak in Killarney Provincial Park. In the distance several lakes are visible in between pine trees. 

Missinaibi River

The Missinaibi River is one of the most iconic canoe trips in Canada. The first section of the river - the Upper Missinaibi - flows through the rocky terrain of the Canadian Shield and has dozens of distinct whitewater rapids, ranging from CI to CIII. The second section - the Lower Missinaibi - begins in the Canadian Shield but transitions into the Hudson Bay Lowlands, where the river is calm and straight. A Canadian Heritage River, the Missinaibi offers paddlers a mix of whitewater adventure, solitude and a piece of Canadian and Indigenous history.

Getting to the Missinaibi River & Missinaibi Canoe Routes

For those wanting to paddle the entirety of the Missinaibi, start at Missinaibi Lake Provincial Park. It’ll take approximately three weeks to paddle the 520 km to Moosonee. You can drive directly to Lake Missinaibi Provincial Park. Moosonee, on the other hand, is accessed via the Polar Bear Express - meaning you’ll load your canoes onto a train at the end of your trip.

If you’d like a shorter option, you can either start or end your trip at Mattice, a small town on Highway 11, located about halfway along the river. There are also access points at Lake Brunswick and Peterbell.

Missinaibi Lake to Mattice is excellent for big whitewater paddling; there are lots of fun sets to paddle. Mattice to Moosonee, on the other hand, has fewer sets to paddle but has remarkable scenery. Thunderhouse Falls and Hell’s Gate are beautiful canyons you can camp along; after the canyons, the Missinaibi is straight and calm, with rolling hills and big sky, characteristic of the landscape of the Hudson Bay Lowlands.

Rushing water through a canyon at Thunderhouse Falls on the Missiniaibi River. 

Canoe Trips in Quebec

Dumoine river.

The Dumoine River is an iconic river in the Upper Ottawa Valley, mesmerizing whitewater canoeists for years. It’s one of the Three Sisters - the other being the Noire and the Coulonge rivers - flowing south and emptying into the Ottawa River.

Getting to the Dumoine River

The Dumoine River flows south, emptying into the Ottawa River about halfway in between Mattawa and Pembroke. In the past, the Dumoine River was accessed by floatplane. Nowadays the river is much more accessible. There are beaten and battered logging roads throughout the area, providing access to both Lac Benoit and Lac Dumoine.

Dumoine River Canoe Trip

The most popular places to start the Dumoine River are at Lac Dumoine and Lac Benoit, and the most common takeout is on the Ottawa River. If starting at Lac Dumoine, you will likely want 8-10 days to paddle all 120 km of the river. By starting at Lac Benoit, you would only be covering 72 km, which could be paddled in 4-6 days.

Throughout the river, you’ll find dozens of rapids ranging from lengthy swifts to dramatic Class IIIs. One such rapid is the menacingly-named Canoe Eater, requiring technical manoeuvring to sweep by exposed boulders. The major portage is around Grand Chute, a beautiful series of roaring rapids and waterfalls cascading for more than a kilometre.

Lining the boat down a rapid on the Dumoine River.  

Moisie River

The Moisie River is often called the ‘Nahanni of the East’, offering experienced whitewater paddlers an opportunity to tackle technical, high volume rapids in a beautiful, remote environment.

Getting to the Moisie River

The river begins at Lac DeMilles, near Labrador City and along the border between Quebec and Labrador. Despite its remoteness, the river is surprisingly accessible. Highway 500 cuts right by the lake and can be accessed from Quebec City via Highway 389. From Lac DeMilles, the river flows 440 km south to Sept-Îles, emptying into the St Lawrence River.

Moisie River Canoe Route

The Moisie River requires approximately two to three weeks to paddle. Over 440 km, there are dozens of rapids, including several Class III rapids and a handful of waterfalls and canyons to portage around.

From Lac DeMille, there are 100 km of lakes to paddle through before arriving at Lac Felix. The next section has a series of waterfalls, requiring several long portages to bypass. Following the Pékans / Moisie Confluence is another section of waterfalls and canyons, requiring portaging and technical paddling. From this point until Sept-Îles, the river calms down… somewhat. While the waterfalls may be behind you, there are still dozens of Class I-III rapids to paddle/portage.

All this to say, the Moisie River is one of the most exciting canoe routes in Canada. It does, however, require exceptional whitewater skills. Between the put in and the takeout, the river can only be accessed by float plane or helicopter.

Canoe Routes in Western Canada

Manitoba-ontario border.

There are several provincial parks and crown land areas along the border and Manitoba and Ontario with fantastic canoe camping. There are hundreds, maybe thousands, of lakes scattered across the region. The topography is that of classic boreal forest - granite Canadian Shield, dark water, pine trees. Although recognized for its beauty, canoe routes around the Manitoba-Ontario border aren’t nearly as popular as canoe routes in southern Ontario.

Getting Here & Canoe Routes

Whiteshell Provincial Park is just north of Highway 17 and a short drive east of Winnipeg. There are several possible canoe trips in the area, especially if you cross into Ontario. Big Whiteshell Lake is a common place to launch a canoe trip. From there, you could paddle to Crowduck Lake, Eaglenest Lake, Echo Lake and Saddle Lake before looping back into Crowduck Lake.

Nopiming Provincial Park lies a little north, accessed via Provincial Road 314. This is a large park with hundreds of lakes and plenty of canoe route possibilities. Tulabi Falls and David Lake are popular access points.

Woodland Caribou Provincial Park and Atikaki Provincial Park - Woodland Caribou Provincial Park is a premier wilderness park entirely in Ontario, however, I’ve included it in this section because of its adjacency to Atikaki Provincial Park, which is entirely in Manitoba. 

The Bloodvein River is a canoe trip on almost any whitewater paddler’s bucket list. Red Lake, in Woodland Caribou PP, is the headwaters to the Bloodvein. The river crosses Woodland Caribou and then flows across Atikaki Provincial Park. The Bloodvein is a total of 340 km, though you can skip some flatwater by flying into Artery Lake and starting from there, cutting the trip to 225 km. The Bloodvein is known for its rushing whitewater and waterfalls, beautiful boreal scenery and the presence of pictographs.

A pitstop on the river in the Manitoba area.  

The Seal River is a Canadian Heritage River in northern Manitoba. It begins in Shethanei Lake and travels 260 km to Hudson Bay, a little north of Churchill. The river offers a landscape unlike most of the other routes on this list; it passes through the transition zone between boreal forest and sub-arctic tundra

If you like reading about canoe trips in Canada, I strongly recommend reading River of Fire by Hap Wilson. He and three other men paddled the Seal River in the 1980s during one of Manitoba’s worst wildfire seasons. It’s an enthralling read.

Getting to the Seal River & Canoe Routes

The best way to access the Seal River is by flying to Tadoule Lake, a First Nation community of the Sayisi Dene people. From Tadoule Lake, you can paddle to Shethanei Lake and kick off your Seal River adventure.

After Shethanei Lake, there aren’t any opportunities to leave the river until you approach Hudson Bay. From here, you can take a float plane or boat shuttle to Churchill. The entire journey takes about two-three weeks to paddle.  

Photo Credit: Ted Baird. Ted paddled the Seal River in 2021 over 25 days. You can watch his trip in his docu-series on Youtube:  25 Days Wild Camping in Northern Wilderness .   

Bowron Lakes Circuit

The Bowron Lakes Circuit is a parallelogram of interconnected lakes in the interior of British Columbia. This canoe route offers a different experience than most of the other canoe routes on this list: the Bowron Lakes Circuit will have you paddle on glacial lakes in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains. There are 12 lakes along the 116 km route, with 50 campgrounds dispersed throughout the lakes. 

Due to its popularity, only 27 canoes (or 54 people) are allowed to start the circuit each day.

Getting to the Bowron Lakes Circuit

Prince George is the nearest city to Bowron Lakes Provincial Park. Heading south from Prince George, you’ll have a two hour drive on the Willow Cale Forest Service Road before arriving at the park’s campground. From here, you can either do the Bowron Lakes Circuit clockwise or counterclockwise.

Bowron Lakes Circuit Canoe Route

To avoid extra long days, the circuit requires a minimum of five days to complete. Six or seven days is an ideal length to ensure you have enough time to savour each lake and maybe take a rest day in the middle. Moving counterclockwise, after Bowron Lake you would paddle southwest through Swan and Spectacle lakes before arriving at Sandy Lake. After making a nearly right turn, the next section goes east through Lanezi Lake. Shortly after, you’ll arrive at Isaac Lake, which is shaped like a huge L and eventually brings you back to Bowron Lake. 

Bright skies ahead on the Bowron Lakes Circuit in British Columbia. 

Canoe Trip in the Maritimes

Kejimkujik national park.

The Maritimes are better known for backpacking and sea kayaking, however there are a few places for excellent canoe tripping. One such place is Kejimkujik, a national park in the centre of Nova Scotia.

Getting to Kejimkujik National Park

Kejimkujik is accessed from Highway 8, which cuts through the centre of Nova Scotia southwest of Halifax. After turning off the highway, you can follow Kejimkujik Main Parkway to reach the different access points. The most popular access point is on Kejimkujik Lake. In addition to the access points, there are also campgrounds and outfitters here.

Kejimkujik Canoe Routes

Mersey River : Starting at Keji Lake, this route travels south to Low Landing via the Mersey River. Low Landing is the takeout on Lake Rossignol, the largest lake in the area and just outside the park.

Big Dam Lake to Keji Lake via Frozen Ocean Lake : This route begins at the access point on Big Dam Lake. From there, it travels along a narrow river to Frozen Ocean Lake. A few portages later, you’ll arrive at Keji Lake and can cross this large lake to the takeout at Jake’s Landing.

Canoe Trips in the Territories

Some of Canada’s best canoe trips are in Nunavut, Yukon and The Northwest Territories. Canoeing in the arctic isn’t easy or cheap, but the spectacular scenery and wildlife viewing make the effort well worth it. 

Due to the remoteness, novice and intermediate paddlers will want to join a guided trip if paddling in the territories. Experienced paddlers can do self-guided trips, though they should have wilderness medicine and rescue experience. 

Nahanni River

No list of canoe trips in Canada would be complete without the Nahanni River, perhaps Canada’s most iconic and sought after river. Nahanni National Park protects 30,000 sq km of the MacKenzie Mountains in the Northwest Territories, through which the Nahanni flows. Notable features along the river include Virginia Falls, which is considered North America’s most spectacular undeveloped waterfall, and the ‘Grand Canyons’, a series of four canyons the river cuts through.

Yukon River

Most of the rivers on this list are whitewater rivers, though if you’d prefer something slower pace, consider the Yukon River. The source of the Yukon River is in northern British Columbia; it then flows through Yukon and Alaska, eventually emptying into the Bering Sea. Unless you have two to three months to paddle the entire ~3,100 km, you’ll only be paddling a section. The section between Lac Laberge and Dawson City is a popular two-week trip, paddling 730 km through 

Coppermine River

The Coppermine River begins near the border between Nunavut and The Northwest Territories. It flows north for over 800 km, emptying into the Arctic Ocean at the town of Kugluktuk. The river is known for its towering canyons and mountains, and its raging, bright blue water.  It’s not uncommon to see muskox, caribou, grizzlers, moose and bald eagles. This is a remote and exciting river for experienced whitewater paddlers. For the less experienced, there are a few guiding companies that run canoe and rafting trips on the river.

Paddling a calm stretch of the Nahanni River, the most iconic canoe trip in Canada.   

Other Canoe Trips in Canada of Note

For brevity’s sake, this list does not contain every single incredible canoe trip in Canada. That said, here are a few additional canoe trips worth exploring.

• Quetico (Ontario)
• Wabakimi (Ontario)
• Broadback River (Quebec)
• Fond du Lac (Saskatchewan)
• Spanish River (Ontario)
• Hayes River (Manitoba)
• Horton River (Northwest Territories)

I hope you’ve found some inspiration and are ready to start planning your next canoe trip in Canada!

Mikaela is the voice behind  Voyageur Tripper , an outdoor blog that aims to teach people how to take longer and more challenging trips in the backcountry. She previously worked as a wilderness guide, leading canoeing and hiking trips in Ontario, Quebec and Nunavut. Mikaela currently lives on the West Coast. You can find her on Instagram at  @voyageurtripper .

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The Northwest Territories is the world’s Northern Lights mecca. Here, the Aurora dance an average of 200 nights per year and you can enjoy two real Aurora seasons: winter and fall. Fall Aurora begins in August, when the midnight sun retires and the Northern Lights come back with the night. Imagine, paddling with Jackpine Paddle beneath the Northern Lights as the colours dance on the water. Or camping as the Northern Lights wriggle overhead. All without the need of a -30°C certified parka.

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Northwest Territories

Central Arctic

62°52’N  105°31’W

It’s better in the Barrenlands – a remote and otherworldly zone of glacial eskers, rock-ribbed hills, and artifacts from the Chipewyan and Caribou Inuit cultures. You’ll find a treeless expanse legendary for paddling, fishing and wildlife viewing.

Great Slave Lake

62°09’N  111°52’W

The fabled East Arm is perhaps the most grandiose region of Great Slake Lake, and for good reason. It features clear waters, deep bays with tall, stark red cliffs, and world-class fishing.

Western Arctic

69°51’N 126°56’W

The Arctic Circle is a line of lore and legend – and the Western Arctic is one of the few places in Canada where you can reach it by river. You can watch the sun spin itself dizzy in the sky, never falling below the horizon. You’ve now crossed into the true polar zone, a mythic region only a fraction of the travellers on Earth have ever entered.

Mackenzie Mountains

62°59’N  129°01’W

The Mackenzie Mountains may offer the greatest whitewater canoeing left on Earth – an endless oasis of remote, rugged uplands, cut through by glacial rivers and bustling with mountain sheep, caribou, moose and other creatures untouched by the modern age.

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Quetico Classic Family Canoe Trip & Lodge Adventure

This all-inclusive 5-day wilderness canoe, camping and lodge package is perfect for the active family. You and your kids will love paddling, swimming, fishing, discovering the wonders of nature and sharing stories around the campfire. It’s the ideal outdoor vacation to connect your family to each other and nature.

Your adventure begins at Voyageur Island Lodge where you’ll be immersed in authentic Canadian Canoe Culture, learn best practices for backcountry canoe tripping and get fully outfitted for your 3-day canoe trip. Upon return to the lodge, unwind in the sauna, share a memorable Voyageur canoe ride and Tipi campfire experience.

5 days, 4 nights

2 nights lodge, 2 nights backcountry canoe & camping

Rating: Classic, Self Guided

From CAD $1080/adult + tax From CAD $540/youth (6-12 years) + tax Free for children 5 yrs & under

From May to September

Itinerary and Highlights

• Be immersed in authentic Canadian Canoe Culture
• Experience Indigenous and Voyageur traditions and heritage
• Learn Leave No Trace practices for your backcountry canoe camping trip
• Explore Quetico Provincial Park on a 3-day self-guided backcountry canoe trip
• Stay at an easy access campsite
• Be inspired by Quetico’s wildlife and wilderness
• Enjoy incredible padding, swimming, fishing, stargazing and sunsets
• Create long lasting family memories

Arrive at Nym Lake access point for your early afternoon water shuttle to Voyageur Island. After a tour of the lodge and island, you’ll have some free time to relax before getting geared up and selecting meals for your canoe trip. Learn best practices for backcountry canoe camping (Leave No Trace). Enjoy a delicious dinner in the dining room then settle into nature’s rhythm. Sleep in comfort in your cozy lodge room or cabin.

Eat a hearty breakfast before packing up your canoe for your self-guided adventure.

After a short paddle on Nym Lake, you’ll arrive at the 800 m long portage trail. Soak in the beauty of the ancient white pine boreal forest as you portage to a beautiful pebble beach on Batchewaung Lake. Load up your canoe and paddle to an easy access campsite where you will set up camp and spend 2 amazing nights in the wilderness.

Your days will be filled with fishing, swimming, hiking and canoeing. Watch for merganser ducks, river otters, loons and eagles. Enjoy delicious backcountry meals. Share stories of the day and smores at your campfire under the stars.

Awake early to see a breathtaking sunrise before enjoying a leisurely breakfast at your campsite. Pack up your camp and paddle back to the 800 m portage to return to Nym Lake.

Upon arrival at Voyageur Island Lodge in mid-afternoon, we’ll help you unload the canoe and unpack your gear. Get cleaned up in the showerhouse. Relax in the wood-fired sauna, take a dip in the lake and check out the Voyageur Canoe before a tasty dinner in the dining room. Share tales of your adventures in a special farewell teepee and campfire experience.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before your departure (prior to 10am) by water shuttle to the Nym Lake access parking lot.

• 2 nights accommodation at Voyageur Island Lodge
• Meals (2 hearty breakfasts and 2 local-sourced dinners)
• Experiences: lakefront sauna, Voyageur’s “Montrealais” large birchbark canoe replica, farewell campfire and teepee experience
• Return water shuttle between Voyageur Island and Nym Lake/Batchewaung Park Access
• Professional orientation and trip planning
• Recommended canoe route with points of interest outlined on a Quetico map
• 3-day complete canoe and camping outfitting (lightweight Alumnacraft canoe and all paddling equipment, all camping equipment, backcountry gourmet meals and snacks)
• Quetico Park campsite permits

Package Pricing

CAD $1080 + tax per adult CAD $540 + tax per youth (6-12 years) Free for Children (5 yrs & under)

All prices are per person and in Canadian dollars, taxes are extra.

Conditions apply: This package requires a minimum of 2 people, minimum 1 adult and 1 youth to apply Youth & Children rates, prices subject to change.

Note: US pricing is available and will be based on exchange rate at time of purchase. Please contact us for information and pricing on options.

Options Available

Extra fee applies

• Guide for canoe trip
• Upgrade backcountry canoe equipment, obtain a fishing license
• Additional nights and meals at lodge and/or outfitting for canoe trip
• Satellite phone or Spot Tracking
• Group rates available – minimum 10+ people

Book or Enquire About: Quetico Classic Family Canoe Trip & Lodge Adventure

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Canoe Rating System

Challenging (7+ day canoe trips, serious portaging).

• 7+ days paddling with 8 to 10 easy to difficult portages
• 6+ nights at different campsites
• Suitable for good to excellent fitness levels
• Suitable for intermediate to advanced canoe tripping skill level
• Great for avid adventurers, families with teenage children, couples and small groups

Demanding (5 to 7+ day canoe trips, moderate portaging)

• 5 to 7 days paddling with 2 to 7 easy/moderate portages
• 4 to 6 nights at different campsites
• Extended: add extra nights at a base campsite
• Suitable for average to good fitness levels

Classic (2 to 4+ day canoe trips, easy portaging)

• 2 to 4 days paddling with 1 to 2 easy portages
• 1 to 3+ nights at easy access campsite(s)
• Extended: add extra nights at base campsite
• Suitable for most fitness levels
• Suitable for all canoe tripping skill levels (no experience to advanced)
• Great for families with young children, multi-generations and new canoe trippers

Easy (day canoe outings)

• Day canoe outings from lodge/cabin
• Suitable for all canoeing skill levels (no experience to advanced)

Note: All trips can be customized to meet your needs. Don’t know what level you’re at? Contact us and we’ll be happy to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i get to the trip.

All adventures are based out of Voyageur Island Lodge on Nym Lake, near Atikokan, Ontario, Canada. A boat transfer is provided from the Nym Lake Access Parking Lot.

By Car: We are easily accessible by automobile. From Thunder Bay, it is a 2-hour drive west on the Trans-Canada Highway then a short drive down a gravel road to the Nym Lake Access Parking Lot where you will leave your vehicle. You will be shuttled to Voyageur Island Lodge on a pontoon boat.

By Plane:   The nearest gateway city is Thunder Bay, which is serviced by Air Canada ; United Airlines ; Porter Airlines and West Jet Airlines . Voyageur Wilderness is happy to help you arrange for an airport pick up and shuttle. Please contact us for details.

How do I get/reserve a Quetico Park permit?

As Voyageur Wilderness is an official issuer of Quetico Park permits, we can reserve and issue park permits on your behalf at Voyageur Island Lodge at no additional cost.

What is a backcountry canoe trip?

Quetico Provincial Park is an internationally recognized wilderness paddling destination. It has an extensive system of canoe-portage routes that allow for a mix of short, easy or extended challenging trips. The backcountry campsites have no facilities, services or signs on campsites and portages.

Voyageur Wilderness makes its easy and fun to experience a backcountry canoe trip in Quetico Provincial Park. For over 60 years, we have been providing full canoe outfitting services from Voyageur Island Lodge on Nym Lake. We will teach you best practices for backcountry canoeing and camping and will provide you with all the gear, equipment and meals you need for a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Voyageur Wilderness has an excellent rapport with Quetico Provincial Park and was instrumental in helping Quetico’s wilderness receive its special “sensitive area designation:” and complete mechanical motorized ban. We are leaders in responsible and sustainable tourism practices.

Can you provide more details about Voyageur Island Lodge?

Voyageur Island Lodge, full of rustic charm, is truly a special place where you’ll be immersed in the timeless wonder of the Canadian wilds. It’s located on an easily accessible 2-hectare island on Nym Lake, just 500-metres from 460,000 hectares of protected wilderness of Quetico Provincial Park. Find out more about the lodge accommodation , meals, amenities and pet friendly rules.

For over 60 years, the Lodge has been a gathering place for people wanting to enrich their knowledge of the natural environment and experience the beauty of Quetico Park.

Owned and operated by the Savoie family, they integrate responsible tourism practices in all components of its operations. This approach is based on their Métis and French-Canadian voyageur heritage and the wisdom of their elders. They were “taught” certain fundamental concepts and shown respect of “Mother Earth”, self, family and community.

They are devoted to keeping ecological integrity at the lodge and in all aspects of visitors’ travel through Quetico Provincial Park. They truly believe that humans are not the masters of nature, but rather a small strand that is part of the large web of life. They lead by example, cultivate hope and inspire others to appreciate the connection to each other and the Earth.

Is Internet and cell phone service available?

Cell phone service is available at the lodge, however, due to its remote location, internet service is not available.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, all adventures are dog friendly.

What experience and level of fitness do I need?

To help you choose your adventure, we’ve rated canoe trip route levels from EASY (no experience to advanced) to CHALLENGING (intermediate to advanced). Canoe adventures and trip routes can be customized to match your skills, experience and fitness level.

Use our canoe rating system to see if the trip is right for you. Don’t know what level you’re at? Contact us and we’ll be happy to help.

What are the backcountry meals like?

Voyageur Wilderness guarantees well-balanced and nutritious meals of fresh and freeze-dried trail foods for your backcountry adventure. We’ll provide you with meal menu options, discuss choices, including any special dietary needs and ensure your food, cook kit and essentials are packed up for your trip.

Download our Backcountry Food Checklist .

What is the weather like in Quetico?

It’s always important to consider weather conditions when trip planning.  For example May and September tend to be cooler than June, July and August.  Please check the Welcome to Quetico Provincial Park (ontarioparks.com) or for daily weather forecasts and more info on weather conditions visit www.weatheroffice.gc.ca .  Feel free to contact us for our insight into weather and park travel conditions.

What environmental considerations are there for travel within Quetico?

The protection of Quetico Provincial Park is essential and is guided by rules and regulations that all visitors must adhere to. Leave No Trace 7 principles including: Pack it in-Pack it out and How To Dispose of Waste Properly form part of the wilderness ethical travel to ensure Quetico’s protected for generations to come! We can help you with Park Travel Regulations and Trip Planning or visit Welcome to Quetico Provincial Park .

What about safety and emergencies?

Trip plan, preparedness, skills, equipment and common sense are tools to keep you safe and healthy. Other emergency tools such as Satellite phones and Emergency Locators are available to rent.

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Canoe & Hike Expeditions

Must-do river trips for paddlers, award winning canoe based river journeys on the most iconic rivers in northern canada..

We lead  fully guided canoe journeys on world-class rivers in Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut. These wilderness rivers comprise the list of legendary northern descents of which all paddlers dream. Most have exhilarating whitewater combined with tranquil paddling and a few are flatwater only. We have planned these expeditions to maximize your enjoyment of the highlights of each river and our experienced and knowledgeable guides go far beyond the typical canoe trip in sharing with you hidden secrets and lore of each one, including flora, fauna and unique phenomena. Most importantly, they allow you the adventurer, to select your level of engagement and comfort in camp.

Our trips are multi-activity

Your time on the river each day will vary, leaving plenty of time for other pursuits such as: hiking, fishing, photography, and enjoying the midnight sun.

Your trip of a lifetime!

We spare no expense treating you to the absolute best canoeing adventures with expert, knowledgeable guides, fresh cuisine and the best equipment.

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Nahanni Canyons From Virginia Falls One Week Trip – Canyon Kingdom

A Nahanni River experience is on every paddler's “bucket list.” Limited time? You can still enjoy the iconic features of this world-renowned river.

Nahanni Canyons From Virginia Falls 12-Day Trip – Canyon Kingdom & More Hiking

Experience the legendary Nahanni River on an extended trip. Take the extra time to fully savour all of the Nahanni’s iconic features.

Best of the Nahanni: 10 Day Canoe Adventure

Journey through some of the world's most spectacular geography. Starting with one on one canoeing instruction, our experienced and professional guide team ensure your Nahanni River expedition is comfortable, safe and creates memories that will last a lifetime.

Broken Skull River: 12 Day Canoeing Adventure

With exciting but approachable rapids, easy access to the alpine and hidden hot-springs this wild river begs for exploration.

Broken Skull River: 23 Day Canoe Adventure

This expedition offers a chance to experience two of Canada's most remote and spectacular National Parks.

Mountain River Rafting: Mackenzie Mountains, Canyons and Whitewater

An exciting opportunity for those without advanced whitewater canoe skills to enjoy a spectacular northern river adventure experience by raft.

Coppermine River by Raft or Canoe

Flowing to the Arctic Ocean, the Coppermine is famous for Gyrfalcons, Peregrine Falcons, Rough-legged Hawks, and eagles. Experience the wildlife and beauty of the "Land of the Midnight Sun.”

Soper River – Baffin Island Wilderness and Culture

Combine the best of cultural exploration on Baffin Island with paddling on the Soper River in northeastern Canada!

Two Week Nahanni River Classic Whitewater Canoe Adventure

A classic 14 day journey for the canoeing enthusiast. Enjoy hiking, wildlife, wildflowers, geology and history.

Nahanni River Flatwater Canoeing to Virginia Falls

The perfect way for novice canoeists to experience the legendary Nahanni River.

Nahanni Whitewater Canoeing: Moose Ponds Expedition – 3 Weeks

Canoe the legendary Nahanni from its headwaters – an exhilarating and Class III whitewater adventure for skilled paddlers.

Wind River Canoeing Expedition – Friendly Whitewater and Mountain Hiking

An arctic mountain river renowned for its tremendous hiking and "friendly" whitewater – ideal for intermediate canoeists interested in exploring the beauty that surrounds the Wind.

Snake River – Whitewater, Wildlife & Hiking

Flowing through the spectacular Bonnet Plume Range of the northern Yukon, the Snake River is renowned for its remote beauty, excellent hiking and whitewater paddling.

Horton River Canoeing: Flatwater Canoeing, Caribou, Muskox and Smoking Hills

Paddle through Canada's Arctic wilderness: Encounter muskox, explore the Smoking Hills, and gaze upon Beluga whales on this 13-day Horton River Canoe Expedition.

Lower Stikine River Canoeing Expedition – “The Canoeable Tatshenshini”

Flowing through the Coast Range, the "great river," as it’s known by the local Tlingit, boasts vast glaciated mountains, icebergs, hot springs and First Nations fish camps.

Thelon River Canoeing – Caribou, Creatures of the Tundra, Fall Colours and More!

Only offered every other season, the Thelon river journey provides an intimate wilderness experience in a vast land, the gorgeous fall colours of the tundra and the chance to see the legendary northern lights.

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Canoeing , Ontario

8 incredible guided canoe trips in ontario (according to a canoe guide).

Ontario is a premier destination for guided canoe trips. The province offers exciting trips for the novice, intermediate and advanced paddler. Some destinations require a full day of driving, while others can be reached in just a few hours. Some destinations feature incredible wildlife; others have exciting whitewater. Any outdoorsy soul will find solace in Ontario’s wild spaces.

And even for those who aren’t particularly outdoorsy, I think a canoe-guided trip is the best kind of trip you can take in Ontario. It introduces you to the beautiful scenery and sheer vastness (and shows that Ontario is much more than the CN Tower and Niagara Falls).

I was a canoe guide in this beautiful province for four seasons, and I still find somewhere new to paddle each summer. So if you’re thinking of taking a guided canoe trip in Ontario, read on! Here are the best canoe trips in Ontario!

8 Incredible Guided Canoe Trips in Ontario

Killarney provincial park.

What You’ll Love: The absolutely gorgeous scenery

Recommended Guided Trip : Killarney Fall Colours – Weekend Getaway

Location : North shore of Georgian Bay // 4.5 hours from Toronto or 6 hours from Ottawa

Killarney Provincial Park is one of my favourite places in all of Canada. The turquoise waters of Georgian Bay splash upon the granite shoreline; the quartz in the rock shimmers in the sunlight and makes the tall peaks look iridescent. Killarney is, in my opinion, the best place to take your first canoe trip.

The campsites are very nice and well maintained. They offer flat areas for tents, a solid fire pit for cooking, and thunderboxes for when nature calls. Anyone would be very comfortable joining one of the guided canoe trips in Killarney.

The one downside to Killarney is that, depending on the route chosen, you might be faced with a lot of portages. Thus, your guide will choose a route that offers breathtaking scenery without a 3 km portage! They will provide ultralight kevlar canoes for easy portaging. If you would like to carry a canoe, they can teach you proper technique, or if you would like to avoid carrying a canoe, they can take the load.

Killarney is especially beautiful in autumn when the leaves change to orange and red with the quartzite hills in the background. >>I recommend taking this guided canoe trip in mid-autumn.

Read More : Camping in Killarney: A Guide to Ontario’s Most Beautiful Provincial Park

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support is much appreciated! You can learn more by reading my full disclosure .

Petawawa River

What You’ll Love : Exciting whitewater close to Toronto 

Recommended Guided Trip : Petawawa River Whitewater Adventure

Location : Northeast of Algonquin Provincial Park // 4.5 hours from Toronto or 1.5 hours from Ottawa

Algonquin Provincial Park can be a great place to do a self-guided canoe trip. If you aren’t very experienced, however, you will be forced to stay on popular flat-water routes and are likely to see many other paddlers. Queue the Petawawa River.

Located in the northeast of Algonquin, the Petawawa River offers beautiful scenery and exciting whitewater for novice paddlers. Your guide will teach you the paddling strokes required for whitewater paddling and introduce you to scouting rapids.

And the Petawawa River is a great destination if you don’t have a lot of time. A typical trip covers 50 km over four days, and the starting point is just five hours from Toronto. You could do the whole trip only by taking two vacation days from work!

I did a guided canoe trip on the Petawawa this summer actually. I am an experienced whitewater paddler, but my dad and brother were not. So we joined MHO Adventures for a four-day trip ( this is the exact trip we took ). My dad especially loved it and signed up for two more guided canoe trips for next summer.

Read More : Guide to Canoeing the Petawawa River (with Video)

Algonquin Provincial Park

What You’ll Love : Foliage colours in the autumn, well-maintained campsites

Recommended Trip : Algonquin Outfitters Guided Canoe Trip

Location : 3 hours from Toronto or 3 hours from Ottawa

If you’d rather stick to flat water, you’re still in luck. Algonquin is probably the most popular destination for guided camping trips in Ontario (and maybe even Canada). There are tons and tons of outfitters servicing the park with guided canoe trips.

This is helpful because, with over 7,000 km of possible canoe routes, Algonquin can be a little overwhelming if you don’t have much experience. I’ve made four trips to Algonquin already, but I still call an outfitter for advice on what route I should choose – there are just so many options!

Another reason a guided canoe trip in Algonquin Park is a great option is that Algonquin is perfect for novice canoeists. The park has well-developed facilities; tent spots are nice, thunderboxes are available, and there are ample routes for beginners.

Missinaibi River

What You’ll Love : Paddling fun whitewater on a remote river – the epitome of wilderness

Recommended Guided Trip : Upper Missinaibi Whitewater Adventure OR Full Missinaibi River Adventure

Location : Northeast of Lake Superior // 9.5 hours from Toronto or 6 hours from Sudbury

The Missinaibi River is a Canadian Heritage River due to the key role it played in the fur trade. Indigenous people and voyageurs alike used the river to navigate between James Bay and Lake Superior.

The Upper Missinaibi has tons of exciting rapids to paddle. You’ll have a few portages, but all will be around beautiful waterfalls and chutes. That said, this should only be paddled by guided groups (unless you are an advanced paddler with whitewater rescue skills). >>Click here to read about a guided trip on the Upper Missinaibi.

Your guide will tell you what rapids are possible to paddle and which ones need to be portaged. If someone flips their canoe, your guide is there to help.

If you have teenage children, I think this is the best option for family canoe trips in Ontario. I guided eight 15-year-olds on the Missinaibi River and they absolutely loved it.

Of all the guided canoe trips in Ontario, this one offers the most exciting rapids in the most remote environment. The campsites are well-maintained but are significantly less developed than in provincial parks further south. You’ll feel a true sense of wilderness here!

Seriously, paddling the entire length of Missinaibi River should be on the top of everyone’s bucket list. It was truly incredible.

Read More : 7 Reasons to Canoe the Missinaibi River

Moose River

What You’ll Love : Big sky and history on a tundra-like river

Recommended Guided Trip : Moose River Journey to the Northern Sky

Location : Southwest of James Bay // 9.5 hours from Toronto or 6 hours from Sudbury

In northern Ontario, the Missinaibi and Mattagami rivers meet and together they become the Moose River. From there, the Moose River flows to the salty waters of James Bay. If you would like to experience the expansive landscape of a tundra river, without flying all the way to the territories, the Moose River is the best destination.

The river is perfect for novice paddlers; it doesn’t have any portages and it only has one set of rapids. The scenery includes a sprawling sky (with the chance of seeing northern lights in August) and spiny spruce trees, characteristic of the Hudson Bay Lowlands.

Where the Moose River meets James Bay lies the towns of Moose Factory and Moosonee. Here you can explore the well-preserved Hudson Bay Company trading post buildings and return south via the Polar Bear Express.

Can’t decide between the Missinaibi and Moose rivers? Do them both on the same trip! I guided a 24 day trip on these rivers and the Missinaibi / Moose rivers remain my favourite place ever paddled. As one of the best experiences of my life, I think it is worthy of any outdoor enthusiast’s bucket list. There is no better way to disconnect from busy city life than with a three-week adventure in the wilderness. >>This guided trip offers the opportunity to paddle the entire Missinaibi River .

French River

What You’ll Love : Paddling through a beautiful gorge

Recommended Guided Trip : French River Family Adventure

Location : Northeast of Georgian Bay // 3.5 hours from Toronto or 5.5 hours from Ottawa

The French River is like a cross between the Petawawa River and Killarney Provincial Park. Over four days you’ll be treated to scenic gorges, interconnected lakes, and some whitewater rapids. The river ends at Georgian Bay, offering a stunning landscape similar to that of Killarney.

The campsites are nice and offer the backcountry comforts of flat tent spots and sturdy fire pits. This river is designated a Canadian Heritage River and is just three hours from Toronto, making it an accessible adventure for those short on time. 

You’ll love paddling with steep granite cliffs on either side. The sunrises are incredible, and the sunsets are equally brilliant. Canoeing the French River will be the perfect getaway from city life!

Spanish River

What You’ll Love : Whitewater suitable for families

Recommended Trip : Spanish River Family Adventure

Location : Northwest of Georgian Bay // 5 hours from Toronto or 6.5 hours from Ottawa

The Spanish River is a Canadian Classic and rightfully so. Weaving through the granite slopes of the Canadian Shield, the Spanish River offers a touch of whitewater and beautiful scenery.

One of the coolest parts about paddling the Spanish River is that your journey includes a train ride on Via Rail. Have you ever paddled anywhere that wasn’t accessible by road? Have you ever portaged a canoe in and out of a trail car? I have and it’s a quintessentially Canadian endeavor.

The Spanish River doesn’t have enough rapids to satisfy a whitewater junkie, so if you’re looking for whitewater specifically you would be better choosing the Petawawa or Missinaibi.

However, the rapids that are there offer a great introduction to whitewater paddling, especially if you have kids. This is a great guided canoe trip for families.

What You’ll Love : Vast wilderness, boreal forest, peace and quiet

Recommended Guided Trip : Temagami – Lady Evelyn River and Makobe River

Location : Northeast of Georgian Bay // 4.5 hours from Toronto or 5 hours from Ottawa

And last but not least is Temagami. I’ll admit that I’m a little biased, but I think Temagami is absolutely magical. Temagami is where I took my very first major canoe trip. For two weeks, 11 fifteen-year-olds and two guides canoed through just a small pocket of Temagami’s vast wilderness.

When I say vast, I truly mean vast; Temagami is humungous. This region covers a mix of crown land and provincial parks and is larger than Belgium.

Temagami is unlike Algonquin or Killarney, which have been very developed and don’t always feel like the epitome of wilderness. Temagami, on the other hand, is far less travelled and less developed. This does make choosing a canoe route a little more difficult, and you’re much further from help if something should go wrong.

So for that reason, Temagami can be a great place for taking a guided canoe trip.

What to Know About Guided Canoe Trips

If you haven’t taken a guided canoe trip before (or any canoe trip for that matter), you may not know what to expect. As someone who has guided and been guided, here are a few things you can expect on a guided canoe trip.

Almost all of the gear is provided

The majority of the gear will be provided to you at the start of your trip. This typically includes tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, cooking equipment, safety equipment and paddling equipment. On the trip I took with MHO, they even provided camp chairs and canoe barrels for our stuff, so we were comfortable throughout the trip.

The only thing you need to provide is your own personal clothing, and the outfitter will give you a packing list ahead of the trip to ensure you have the right clothing.

If you have gear already, however, you can still bring it. I brought my own sleeping bag, sleeping pad, tent and life jacket. But that’s just because I like my own gear a lot.

You can help as much or as little as you want

If you want to learn how to rehydrate pasta sauce and cook over a fire, your guide will teach you. But if you want to sit by the chair sipping a glass of wine, you can totally do that too.

I say this as someone who has guided a ton of canoe trips: don’t feel bad making us do everything. That’s why we’re there! However, if you would like to learn, we are keen to teach.

Your safety is in good hands

The number one reason I recommend people take a guided canoe trip is because of safety. If something goes wrong in a backcountry, like injury or illness, you want to have someone who has wilderness first aid training and the right equipment.

Or if you’re an experienced canoe camper, but you want to try out whitewater, a guided canoe trip is a great way to get your first experience in moving water. Your guide will be trained in whitewater rescue safety and will have all the equipment (including helmets, a rescue knife, throw bags, a de-pinning kit and outfitted canoes).

Guided Canoe Trips in Ontario – Final Thoughts

I hope you’ve found this post helpful and it’s brought you one step closer to figuring out where you’d like to paddle next. If you’re still unsure, my recommendation is either the Missinaibi (for whitewater) or Killarney (for flatwater). But really any of the destinations listed here are amazing!

Mikaela | Voyageur Tripper

Mikaela has been canoeing, hiking and camping for over ten years. She previously worked as a canoeing guide in Canada, and spent a season guiding hiking and kayaking tours in the high Arctic. Mikaela is a Wilderness First Responder and Whitewater Rescue Technician.

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6 thoughts on “ 8 Incredible Guided Canoe Trips in Ontario (according to a canoe guide) ”

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Why are there no kayak trips only Canoe trips?

Because this is a blog post specifically about guided canoe trips 😉

Would you like to paddle the Seal river in mb? Or have you?

Oh it’s very high on my to do list! I’m currently living in the States, but once I’m back that’s the first river I want to do!

Hi are there any guided canoe trips near Ottawa close to Quebec ?

Yes! There are quite a few guided canoe trips on the Dumoine River, Coulonge River and Noire River. All are in Quebec but are very close to Ottawa, as the rivers flow directly into the Ottawa River. The Petawawa River isn’t too far from Ottawa either.

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River Expeditions

So much more than just the river.

I took my morning coffee to the river’s edge and heard the distant thrum of the fast water that marked today’s Class III section. As the mist lifted, a movement on the far bank materialized into an enormous caribou, followed by another and another… They stepped into the river, swam across to a point below and melted back into the forest. My day had only just begun.

Dare to dream of Yukon-sized river trips… Day or wilderness trip, guided or self, we’ll get you on the water and into a bigger picture of your own.

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Pathways Canada Tours

The original and most experienced guiding company on the bowron lakes., offering guided canoe trips at the bowron lakes since 1973 and the yukon river since 1978, bowron lakes guided canoe trips let you escape the stresses of everyday life, experience this uniquely canadian, outdoor adventure of a lifetime with pathways canada tours, the bowron lakes original and most experienced guided canoe trips outfit..

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Pathways Canada, a small, family-owned business, dedicated to providing guided canoe trips in Canada’s wilderness, was the original guiding company in the Bowron Lakes Provincial Park. Our guides have been guiding canoe trips here since 1973. Pathways offers a uniquely Canadian wilderness experience, in safely guided canoe expeditions, suitable for both the novice and experienced outdoor enthusiast and canoeist. No experience is necessary.

Unrivalled Wildlife Viewing and Scenery in one of Canada’s most unique settings

Ideal For Both the Novice and Experienced Canoeists who desire a great Canadian wilderness experience without the organization problems.

Hearty Gourmet Meals at Private & Reserved Campsites

The Original, Most Experienced Company providing safe guided canoe trips on Bowron Lakes Since 1970

10 Easy Canoe Trips in Ontario

A canoe camping trip is the ultimate escape for a weekend or short getaway. Find solitude and discover the wonders of nature. It’s important to realize backcountry paddling (travelling by canoe and paddling to your campsite) is different from car camping. It requires specialized skills, preparation, respect and knowledge.

If you are a first-timer, we recommend you take a guided trip to gain valuable experience. Safety is the utmost priority in the wilderness.

With the help of your knowledgeable guide, you’ll develop paddling, map-reading, weather-watching, portaging and backcountry camping skills. Plus you’ll enjoy hassle-free planning. Ultralight canoeing and camping equipment is supplied, plus delicious backcountry meals. Just book and go.

If you have acquired basic canoing and camping skills and want to explore on your own, check out the list of Ontario Parks below that offer beginner backcountry canoe camping routes. Local outfitters can get you geared up and help you plan your trip.

Easy 2-, 3- or 4-Day Beginner Guided Canoe Camping Trips—No Experience Required

Try one of these trips. It’ll be a great way to get your feet wet and learn how to safely enjoy a canoe trip.

Grand River

Located in southern Ontario, within a one-hour drive from GTA, the 290-km Grand River and its major tributaries are the perfect waters for a beginner-friendly weekend canoe trip. Designated as a Canadian Heritage River in 1994, the Grand meanders past towns and winds its way through wetlands and rare Carolinian forests. See lots of birds and wildlife.

Paris to Brant Park Route (Very Easy)

Grand River Rafting offers the perfect introductory canoe trip . Start with a one-hour lesson, then set out on a scenic, leisurely 13-km paddle from the quaint town of Paris into a pristine wilderness. Highlights of this two- to four-hour trip include perfect swimming areas, natural spring water and picnic stops.

All canoeing equipment is provided. Add a river guide to learn more about the valley. Campsites are available at the end point. A variety of routes are available for more paddling adventures.

The Grand Canoe Camping Experience (Easy)

This fully outfitted two-day, two-night guided canoe camping trip with Grand Experiences makes it easy for you and your family to experience a safe and unforgettable adventure. Develop your canoeing and camping skills in the heart of southern Ontario’s largest nature region.

Trip includes a Paddle Canada-certified interpretive guide, all canoe and camping equipment, and shuttle rides. Check out their two-day Big Creek Eco-Adventure for more fun.

Algonquin Provincial Park

Known as one of the most beautiful and historic parks in Canada, Algonquin is a popular destination for canoeing, wildlife-viewing, hiking and outdoor adventures. Located an easy drive from Toronto and Ottawa, the park is a perfect choice for a beginner overnight canoe trip.

Classic 3-Day Algonquin Park Guided Canoe Trip (Easy Wilderness)

Voyageur Quest has created a perfect three-day beginner canoe trip for those who want a safe, easy and authentic wilderness experience in Algonquin Park. Your guide will help you develop your backcountry skills as you paddle and portage through beautiful lakes and rivers in Northwest Algonquin Park.

Sleep comfortably in top-quality tents. Feast on delicious meals cooked over a campfire. Trip includes all the canoe and camping equipment, park permits and meals. Available Monday to Wednesday or Friday to Sunday from June to September.

Guided Canoe Camping Trips Designed Just For You (Easy Wilderness)

Ideal for families or groups, a customized Algonquin Outfitters guided trip will teach you the basics of wilderness canoe tripping plus an extra level of comfort and safety to make your wilderness trip more enjoyable. Choose the Algonquin Outfitters guiding service that best suits your needs and budget.

• Greenhorn Service : If you need just a little help, this is a cost-effective option that will start your trip off right. A guide will go over the gear and lead you on a “mini-trip” to cover skills like camp setup, food storage, portaging and paddling.
• Guide for a Day : An experienced guide will travel with you on the first day of your canoe trip. Learn basic paddling strokes, portaging techniques, navigation, campsite selection and setup. Once you are safely on your first campsite with dinner cooking, the guide will depart, allowing you to finish the trip on your own.
• Custom-Designed Guided Trip: This guided trip allows the first-timer to comfortably experience a true backcountry wilderness trip that meets your expectations, experience, abilities and interests.

Customized Learning Canoe Trips For Adults, Youth and Families (Easy Wilderness)

Paddlefoot excels in organizing and guiding safe customized learning canoe trips for beginners to experts. They provide all the canoeing and camping gear and delicious meals. They will plan a route that suits your skill level and will teach you about the wonders of nature that you experience along the way.

French River

The French River , part of Ontario Parks, was designated a Canadian Heritage River in recognition of its natural and historical value. Paddle the route of Indigenous people, French Explorers, fur traders and voyageurs. Learn more at the award-winning French River Visitor Centre with its “Voices of the River” exhibit.

Beginner Canoe Trip for Families (Easy Wilderness Whitewater)

Black Feather offers exceptional wilderness holidays for families with lots of opportunity to learn and practice new whitewater canoeing skills on this fun, four-day canoe camping trip. Camp each evening at a new site, dine on exceptional meals and share stories about the day’s adventures. Enjoy swimming and exploring this beautiful natural setting.

Introductory Whitewater Canoe Trip (Easy Wilderness Whitewater)

With some fun and fairly easy rapids, there are lots of opportunities to learn and practice whitewater canoeing skills on this fun four-day canoe camping trip with Black Feather.

Starting at Wolseley Bay, you’ll paddle the most scenic section of the French River. There’s lots of time for photography, swimming, sharing laughs and enjoying gourmet campfire meals. A Women-Only Adventure is also available.

Killarney Provincial Park

Killarney ’s iconic landscape captivated artists including The Group of Seven. The La Cloche Mountains’ white quartzite ridges and over 50 clear, sapphire lakes surrounded by Jack pine hills is like no other place in the world.

3-Day Canoe/Hiking Trip (Easy/Moderate Wilderness)

Leave the city behind and join Overhang Adventures for a memorable three-day canoe/hiking trip . After a quick canoe lesson, you’ll start paddling on spectacular Bell Lake. Your expert guide will teach you backcountry camping skills before being wowed by millions of stars.

After a short paddle, you’ll hike to the top of Silver Peak to enjoy stunning views before returning to your campsite.

Madawaska River

The Madawaska River is celebrated as one of the best places in North America to learn whitewater paddling. Rapids range from a gentle class I to a splashy class III.

Weekend Whitewater Learning Vacation (Easy Whitewater)

Madawaska Kanu Centre offers an excellent introduction to the exciting world of whitewater paddling for adults and whole families. Learn the basic strokes and boat control on flatwater, then use your knowledge on easy current in the afternoon. By day two, you’ll be paddling up to class II rapids. A variety of camping and accommodations is available.

Rideau Canal

The Rideau Canal is a 202-km-long scenic waterway running from Kingston to Ottawa. It is a National Historic Site of Canada, a Canadian Heritage River and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Maintained by Parks Canada, it is one of the most scenic and historic waterways in North America.

Beveridges Locks Overnight Canoe Trip (Easy Heritage)

Get fully geared up with Perth Outfitters and launch from their docks on the Tay River. Paddle through the renowned Tay Marsh to the Beveridges locks. Go through the locks and explore the lower Rideau Lake. Camp overnight in a Parks Canada unique accommodation called oTENTik , a cross between a tent and a cabin. Paddle back the next day.

Ontario Parks Backcountry for Beginners—Some Experience Required

If you have learned the basic skills for wilderness canoe tripping and now want to explore on your own for a weekend getaway or longer trip, these Ontario Parks offer incredible beginner-level backcountry paddling experiences. Learn about safety and etiquette .

Northwest Ontario

Neys – Located on the shore of Lake Superior, enjoy an incredible sand beach.

Fushimi Lake – Offers exceptional fishing and wildlife viewing.

Wakami Lake – Paddle through boreal forest with old-growth white pine.

Esker Lakes – Explore dozens of kettle lakes, formed when glaciers retreated 10,000 years ago. Enjoy great bird-watching.

Halfway Lake – See bald eagles and great blue herons on the Two Narrows Canoe Route.

Killarney – Paddle this iconic park, known for its beautiful quartzite mountains and sapphire lakes.

Mississagi – Paddle and portage through a rugged landscape of ancient hills and sparkling waters.

Restoule – Explore the pristine waters at the base of a 100-metre-high bluff.

Explorers’ Edge

Algonquin Park – Paddle the painted landscape, made famous by Tom Thomson.

Grundy Lake – A short five- to 20-minute paddle will get you to your backcountry campsite.

The Massasauga – offers 135 backcountry campsites accessible by water only.

Southeastern Ontario

Charleston Lake Provincial Park - With 10 interior campsites, it’s a perfect place to develop your backcountry canoe camping skills.

Ontario’s Highlands

Bon Echo – See one of Canada’s largest visible collections of Aboriginal Pictographs.

Murphys Point – Paddle five to 45 minutes to access a backcountry campsite on Big Rideau Lake.

Kawarthas Northumberland

Kawartha Highlands – Explore the largest park south of Algonquin. Enjoy solitude, tranquility, wilderness and dark night skies.

If you are new to canoe tripping or just looking for a quick, hassle-free weekend adventure, it’s easy to explore Ontario’s beautiful landscapes with a two- or three-day guided canoe trip. Just pick your trip, book and go paddling.

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Trish Manning is an adventure travel writer and the content coordinator for Ontario Outdoor Adventures. She is an avid outdoor person who loves to hike, paddle, SUP, snowshoe, cross-country ski and explore Ontario's great outdoors with her golden retriever, Daisy.

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Guided Trips

Why go on a guided trip? Whether it lasts a few days or a week, a guided canoe trip is ideal for families or groups of friends seeking the extra level of comfort that comes with having an experienced, personable and knowledgeable guide accompanying them. A guided trip allows the first-timer to comfortably experience what can be an intimidating and easily underestimated wilderness environment. People with previous canoe-camping or wilderness travel experience find that having a guide along helps them build new skills and confidently undertake a more challenging route than they may have on their own. Families discover that having a guide to take care of the “nitty-gritty” details of the trip allows them more time to enjoy special wilderness experiences in Algonquin Park together.

Enhance your Algonquin Park experience by booking one of our outfitting packages with a skilled and knowledgeable canoe trip guide. Algonquin Outfitters offers options for both guided day trips and overnight camping experiences in the park's interior. For multi-day canoe camping trips, you can choose the guide service level that best suits your needs and budget: our exclusive "Custom Guided Trip" with our Ultimate Outfitting food and equipment package, the innovative “Guide for a Day” option or the shorter "Greenhorn Service."

Read the descriptions below and click the title or image for complete information on our guided Algonquin Park canoe trips.

Book a Reservation

• Oxtongue Lake

Greenhorn Service

Need a little help getting started? Add Greenhorn Service to any of our complete outfitting packages to start your trip off with a short course in the basics of camping and paddling. One of our experienced guides will go over all the gear and lead you on a “mini-trip” to cover skills like camp setup, food storage, portaging and paddling. This is a cost-effective way to start your Algonquin Park adventure off on the right foot!

Guide for a day

If you are not sure that you need a guide for the whole trip but could use some help at the beginning, this innovative program could be just the ticket. Available as an option with our Ultimate Outfitting package only, this innovative program goes beyond our standard “Greenhorn Service."

Custom Guided Trip

Each trip is custom-designed to the expectations, experience, abilities and interests of the client. A guided trip builds on our Ultimate Canoe Trip Package and allows the “first-timer” to comfortably experience what can be an intimidating and easily underestimated wilderness environment. People with previous canoe-camping or wilderness travel experience find that a guide can enhance their experience.

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14-Day Nahanni Classic

Description, trip details.

• About Skill Levels
• Trip Preparation Guide
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The Nahanni River is the most iconic river in Canada’s North. Flowing 550 Km in total, it snakes past the tallest peaks in the Mackenzie Mountains then plunges almost 100 m over Virginia Falls. Surrounded by a National Park in 1974 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, the Nahanni’s incredible scenery, indigenous history and legendary whitewater paddling have made this Canada’s canoeing mecca. This 14 day expedition begins 125km upstream of Virginia Falls at Rabbitkettle Lake and provides an opportunity to experience almost everything that Nahanni National Park and the river have to offer including views of the Cirque of the Unclimbables, the Rabbitkettle tufamounds and the incredible canyons of the Nahanni River.

Your journey begins in the bustling city of Whitehorse, the capital of the Yukon, where you will meet CNA Staff, and the rest of your group for a quick orientation, before heading off  on a beautiful drive along the fabled Alaska Highway to the small but quaint town of Watson Lake, where you will camp for the night.  The next morning the journey begins by taking a spectacular flight over the Mackenzie Mountains & Ragged Range- the tallest mountains in the NWT- into the heart of Nahanni National Park . It is an absolute highlight of the trip! Upon arrival, the glacial blue water of Rabbitkettle Lake is framed by nameless valleys stretching off over the horizon. The thought that you are truly in the wilderness now becomes very real.

After setting up camp and enjoying the incredible view, a Nahanni Parks Staff will lead a hike to Rabbitkettle Tufa Mounds. This geological marvel is a terraced limestone feature created by the hot spring here over thousands of years. The next day, we complete a short portage to the river and set off on our journey downstream! Over the next 12 days, you will have the opportunity to see best of what Nahanni has to offer, from the towering Virginia Falls, to the deepest canyons in Canada, to hidden hotsprings and the big skies and braided channels of the lower river. Our certified and professional guides will make every effort to make this experience the trip of a lifetime. This trip has whitewater up to class 3, and therefore is not recommended for beginner paddlers unfamiliar with whitewater. However, if you are an adventurous spirit and a quick learner, we can certainly accommodate you- as there are 4 days of flatwater paddling to learn strokes and technique before the more difficult lower river starts. Contact us for more info!

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