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8 U.S. Canoe Trips That'll Transport You Into the American Wild

Paddle through these waters for wildlife sightings, stunning scenery, and more.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Editor’s Note: Travel might be complicated right now, but use our inspirational trip ideas to plan ahead for your next bucket list adventure.

You don’t have to strap on a giant backpack or hike 10 miles to get out into the wilderness — finding solitude can be as easy as loading up a canoe, pushing off, and dropping a line in the water. On a canoe trip, you need not worry about squeezing past others on a narrow trail or lugging around liters of water — everything you need is right in the boat with you.

These canoe trips take you from above the Alaskan Arctic Circle to the swamps of Georgia and are guaranteed to provide a much-needed reset (with a side of adventure). Plus, they’re all in the U.S., making it easy to find a nearby route that suits your style, whether it be braving rapids and overcoming grueling portages or sitting back with a line in the water and a beer in your hand.

1. Salmon River, Idaho

Also known as The River of No Return, the Salmon River takes boaters through 46 miles of recreational river trail, before reaching the 79-mile section of designated “wild” river. Canoers looking to take on the full 46-mile recreational route can put in at North Fork and take out at Corn Creek — a journey with tall canyon walls and some of the oldest known rocks in the state — or apply for a permit to venture into the “wild” section of the Salmon River.

2. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota

For a paddle that’s just as beautiful as it is remote, it’s hard to top the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in northeast Minnesota. The wilderness area, which is composed of 1,500 miles of canoe routes over 19,000 acres and 1,100 bodies of water, is accessible primarily by canoe. Here in the deep north, boaters are rewarded with scenery that’s still wild and unparalleled solitude.

3. Northern Forest Canoe Trail, New York to Maine

This 740-mile trail starts in New York and ends in Maine, passing through Vermont, Quebec, and New Hampshire along the way. While there’s nothing like the satisfaction that comes from completing the entire stretch, you can take your pick of the route’s 23 rivers and streams, 59 ponds and lakes, and 65 portages to create your own shortened itinerary — whether it be a day trip or a long weekend excursion .

4. Noatak River, Alaska

If true isolation is at the top of your list, it doesn’t get much more remote than the Noatak River . Located above the Arctic Circle, this river route passes through a glacial valley, alpine tundra, deep canyons, and open plains. As you float this easy to moderate river, you can drop in a line or keep an eye out for Alaskan wildlife , including grizzly bears, caribou, and sheep.

5. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, Georgia

If the cooler weather up north doesn’t sound appealing, consider a trip to Georgia, home of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge . Heavily forested cypress swamps and “swamp prairies” offer two different takes on watery terrain that lure canoers looking for a multiday excursion in the South’s lush wilderness.

6. Green River, Utah

Utah’s Green River is a great choice if you’re a newbie to the canoeing world, or if you’ll be traveling with small children. The river is wide and mellow, with plenty of wildlife and scenery. You can drop in at Green River State Park and take out at Ruby Ranch two days later, or float all the way to the confluence of the Green and Colorado Rivers.

7. Buffalo National River, Arkansas

The beautiful Buffalo River passes through the Ozark Mountains and traverses alongside giant bluffs as it runs through quiet pools and tumbling rapids on its way to the White River. Once you reach the confluence, make sure to dip a toe to feel the distinction between the typically cooler White River and the warmer Buffalo waters. This trip can be as short as an afternoon paddle or as long as a multiday journey on the Buffalo River’s 153 miles — either way, you’ll want to keep your fishing gear on hand for the river’s renowned smallmouth bass fishing.

8. Tuolumne River, California

Thrill seekers will find their match on the Tuolumne River , which runs through deep gorges and forests on its way from the high Sierra Nevadas to the Central Valley. Along the way, you’ll be treated to wildlife sightings and excellent trout fishing as you navigate your way around Class IV rapids. Although the Tuolumne put-in is near Yosemite, the 149-mile body of water doesn’t have too much boating traffic, thanks to regulations on the number of trips permitted to launch each day.

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The 10 Best Canoe Trips (For Your World Travel Bucket List)

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial policies .

Mention the word “paddle” to most people and you may get references to “being up the creek without one,” the movie Deliverance , or corporal punishment handed out at Catholic schools in their childhood.

But when I hear the word “paddle,” it immediately conjures up indelible images from my favorite canoe trips around the world.

It brings up warm memories of mist coming off the shore at dawn. The calls of a loon or howler monkey reverberating throughout the surrounding wilderness.

The only human-made sound the “swish-plop” of a paddle as you propel your canoe (or kayak) along the river or across the lake.

It was paddling that introduced me to my first real travel adventure several decades ago in Ontario’s Haliburton Highlands. And, truth be told, I’ve been totally hooked on the hobby ever since.

These are my personal picks for the 10 Best Canoe Trips in the World, and I feel like I’ve barely touched the tip of the iceberg …

READ MORE: The Best Beach Gear & Lake Gear for Summer

Bowron Lakes (British Columbia)

I used Bowron Lakes Provincial Park ‘s wilderness canoe circuit as a “relationship litmus test” the first summer I was dating a girl.

I figured if we were still speaking after a 4-day canoe trip, it would be a good sign. More than 25 years later, we’re still paddling together!

Set in the Cariboo Mountains of central B.C. amid gorgeous scenery, this 72-mile long, rectangular circuit of lakes and rivers is a great one for beginners.

The Cariboo River can be a bit tricky in spots . B ut if you pay attention it shouldn’t cause any grief, as there’s no whitewater. 

All the lakeshore campsites include bear caches for food. There are n’ t too many portages, and you can rent wheels that attach to the bottom of your canoe and roll it down the trails, which include boardwalks along rough, boggy sections.

We paddled it in 4.5 days, but you might want to allow a week for maximum enjoyment of the surrounding scenery.

READ MORE: 10 Best Mountains in the World (World Travel Bucket List)

Everglades National Park (Florida)

Although a good portion of Everglades National Park is swampland, there is a section that offers a different kind of paddling.

In the Ten Thousand Islands, you can kayak in and around a series of small islands on the Gulf of Mexico, camping, soaking up the sun and watching the wildlife that lives there.

During a trip there, I was lucky enough to see a rookery of young herons being fed by adults and watched a dolphin swim under my kayak and breach the surface right behind me. I also observed two ospreys in an aerial battle, and fought to keep the island’s persistent raccoons from stealing food right out of our kayaks!

The sunsets in the Everglades can be spectacular. I’ll never forget watching it set on the ocean at one end, while seeing the silhouette of a cruise ship far off in the distance at the other.

But it can be easy to get lost in the myriad canals and tributaries here. So it’s best to travel with a guide from a reputable tour company.

READ MORE: List of US National Parks by State (An EPIC Guide)

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge (Georgia)

Referred to as “the swamp” by locals, Okefenokee National Park is another great place to see wildlife.. .  as long as you don’t mind keeping company with alligators.

There are a lot of alligators in the swamp. You can see them sunbathing on hummocks of swamp grass or even swimming underneath the wooden platforms you have to camp on . They generally don’t bother anybody unless you get too close.

But gators aren’t the only wildlife you’ll likely see there: Black bears call the Okefenokee home, as do white-tail deer, ospreys, herons, woodpeckers, hawks, and sandhill cranes.

Although you can paddle your own canoe or kayak through here– and many locals do– your best bet is to book an experienced outfitter to keep from getting lost.

Several outfitters guide day trips , but there are only a few that lead overnight canoeing and/or kayaking adventures.

READ MORE: The Top 5 Ecotourism Attractions in North Georgia

Belize Barrier Reef (Belize)

Belize offers novice kayakers a great opportunity to enjoy paddling, sun, sand, snorkeling and culture. This was where my first kayak trip took place after years of paddling a canoe, and it was a great experience.

During the 5-day trip, we camped on three different islands. The first was a nameless mangrove island. which I dubbed “Crab Cay” because of all the hermit crabs roaming around.

The next was a larger island named Laughingbird Cay. Lastly, there was a group of islands known as the Silk Cays, which are just a short paddle away from the Belize Barrier Reef (the second largest reef in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site) .

The snorkeling and Scuba diving there is fantastic, with all kinds of cool coral and multitudes of exotic-looking fish, including reef squid and the occasional barracuda. You may even be lucky enough to see a spotted ray, or perhaps a harmless reef shark.

Our base camp was near Placencia, a center of Garifuna culture , which features a conch-shell sidewalk and a bar/post office to visit before or after your kayak trip.

READ MORE: Scuba Diving the Belize Barrier Reef

The Amazon (South America)

There’s still debate about what river is the world’s longest, but South America’s Amazon River is the largest in terms of total discharge.

While it is threatened by logging and other business interests, the Amazon still encompasses the world’s largest continuous cover of tropical rainforest.

Though I haven’t paddled on the actual Amazon, I did a canoe trip in a section of the Ecuadorian Amazon known as the Orienté, on a tributary called Rio Shiripuno.

Although wildlife abounds there, seeing it in the jungle is not easy. Still, we did see a caiman, several parrots, toucans, a harpy eagle and tracks of what looked like a jaguar along the muddy banks of the river.

The 5-day trip was led by Moi, chief of the Huaorani, the indigenous people on whose land we camped each night as part of our journey. And there’s nothing quite like the sound of a howler monkey waking you up for a pre-dawn photo excursion.

READ MORE: Cruising the Peruvian Amazon

Boundary Waters Canoe Area (Minnesota)

Located on the border of northeastern Minnesota and the southwest border of northwestern Ontario, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area is considered the canoe mecca of North America.

Consisting of thousands of lakes, rivers, marshes and woodlands, and home to all the diverse wildlife that lives in the boreal forest, it has been on my bucket list for years.

Part of the park’s northern boundary borders on Ontario’s  Quetico Provincial Park , creating a huge international reserve of pristine wilderness that’s accessible from either country.

It’s very similar to the way that Glacier National Park and Waterton National Park meet on the Montana-Alberta border. This makes it an excellent area for paddlers to explore.

READ MORE: Hiking Glacier National Park

Okavango Delta (Botswana)

If you’re an avid paddler, but want to experience the wild adventure of an African safari , this canoe trip is the answer to your prayers.

The Okavango Delta is the largest inland delta in the world. Most river deltas lead to the open sea, or at least a large lake. But the Okavango River empties onto open land and floods the savannah.

The area is home to several highly endangered species, including cheetahs, white and black rhinos, and African wild dogs… which is probably why it’s a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site .

There are plenty of eco lodges and traditional safaris available for visitors to enjoy in this area. Some even offer native-powered dugout canoe rides through portions of the wetland.

READ MORE: What Is An Eco Lodge? (Top 10 Eco Lodges in the World) 

Mekong River (Southeast Asia) 

If you want to “kayak like Kurtz,” the Mekong River is your best bet for trying to channel your inner Marlon Brando.

While the Mekong River is not the Nung, Asia’s seventh longest river does wind through six countries– Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and China.

You can paddle past ancient temples, and many villages unchanged by the centuries. You can also paddle on Ha Long Bay and visit Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, another UNESCO World Heritage Site .

While there is plenty to do on a trip like this, you probably won’t run across any surfers playing “Ride of the Valkyries.” And you definitely don’t want to shoot any tigers. Just be careful about stepping out of the boat without your guide!

READ MORE: 10 Most Threatened Rivers in the World

Vava’u Islands (Tonga)

This is another kayak trip that’s been on my bucket list for a while now.

Dreams of Vava’u ‘s crystal clear waters, sparkling sand beaches and hidden marine caves, combined with the chance of seeing whales and dolphins while plying the warm South Pacific waters, tug at my spray skirt in an enticing manner.

Then there’s the rich traditional Polynesian culture , with umu feasts and hula dancing on the beach as the sun goes down.

If that’s not enough, there’s excellent snorkeling on all of the islands you visit . It’s kind of like Tonga’s version of kayaking off the coast of Belize.

READ MORE: Top 5 Ecotourism Activities on Eua Island, Tonga

KERALA (INDIA)

The backwaters of Kerala is another exotric destination that I’ve dreamt of exploring by canoe for several years now.

The Kerala region of India is known for its restful spas and healing waters. But you can also kayak or canoe through its world-renowned backwaters, which can make a great experience even greater.

In addition to paddling, you can also enjoy various Kerala tours focused on bird watching, fishing,  and other activities. You will have plenty of opportunities to make new friends with the villagers you meet along the way.

At the end of the trip, a paddler-pampering massage can be arranged at one of the nearby spas. It’s an incredible way to end the canoe trip of a lifetime!  –by John Geary

If you enjoyed our post on the World’s Best Canoe Trips, you might also like: 

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The 10 Best Canoe Trips in North America

Start planning your paddle through the most beautiful waters around the U.S. and Canada

By Ben Duchesney | Published Dec 26, 2019 8:00 PM EST

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Everyone should spend a week paddling in a canoe, if not every year, at least once in their life. There’s no better way to get to know someone than being stuck in the same boat for days on end, and it’s been the boat of choice for hunters and anglers for centuries. There are paddling routes all across the world, and many in your backyard. Some will challenge you as a paddler, while others can help you and your family relax.

After a few trips under your belt you may end up falling in love with canoe tripping. You’ll know it’s too late if you find that your belt has been replaced by an NRS cam strap.

This is not a definitive list. There are too many gorgeous places to paddle and not enough time, but these North American canoe trips are a good place to start.

The Elements of a Great Canoe Trip

A canoe trip is flexible. You can float lazily down a river, chatting with your friends or you can suffer through a hellish portage in the snow for days on end. It can be whatever you want. I will say that a grueling portage helps to make a trip memorable. The same goes for tricky weather, exciting rapids, and killer fishing conditions. Oh, and bugs.

Tandem paddling and tough portages can bring you closer or make you start whacking each other with your paddle. Make sure your paddling crew works well together. Carry an extra paddle in each boat in case you break or lose your main paddle, and make sure everyone wears a life jacket. Explain the route carefully before you start so everyone knows what to expect.

Always make sure to have a warm, dry change of clothes when you get into camp. No matter how gnarly it gets on the water, a toasty pair of socks waiting for you at the end of the day can help you get through it. A big bag of trail mix (the kind with M&Ms!) in each boat helps too.

If you’re worried about navigating your route, or just want some help on the water, hire a guide or outfitter.

1. Northern Forest Canoe Trail, New England

A group of friends and I paddled the first two sections of the Northern Forest Canoe Trail (NFCT) a few years back and I’ve been itching to go back to complete the rest. I’ve also paddled section 12, the famous Allagash River, in Maine. The beauty of the NFCT is that I can keep picking these trips off section by section, or choose to paddle all thirteen sections at once to cover the entire 740 mile route like an AT thru-hiker. The trail starts in Old Forge, NY and finishes in Fort Kent, Maine. The NFCT covers 23 rivers and streams, 59 lakes and ponds, and 65 portages (a little more than 70 miles) and is the longest inland water trail in the United States. This is as classic as canoe country paddling gets, with the trail following traditional Native American travel routes.

2. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota

More classic canoe country, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness has over 1,200 miles of paddling routes. At 1 million acres in size, you can spend a month in the backcountry of northeastern Minnesota and still barely scratch the surface. There are thousands of lakes and streams and you can spend your nights at one of over 2,000 designated campsites. Bring smores, you’ll want to watch the stars all night long.

3. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, Georgia

A canoe can be just as at home down in the swamp as in the North Woods. Paddle through the black swamp waters of Georgia’s Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge to watch colorful birds and curious alligators. A photographer friend, Chris Funk, has been telling me to paddle the Okefenokee for years. “It’s a place that is so wild; man tried to tame it and failed,” he says. “The beauty of that place burns deep in the hearts of the folks that visit those black waters.”

4. Buffalo National River, Arkansas

The standout character of my time on the Buffalo National River in the beautiful Ozark region of Arkansas was the smallmouth bass. Even the smallest bass I caught that week were feisty as hell and brilliantly colored. There are many route options for paddlers looking for a multi-day float, with a total of 132 river miles beginning in the town of Ponca. Head there for the fishing, but make sure to enjoy the tall bluffs on this scenic river.

5. Green River, Utah

If north country whitewater or alligator swamps aren’t your speed, paddle one of the best flatwater routes in the country on the Green River in Utah. Start in the town of Green River Utah and paddle 120 miles to the confluence of the Colorado River. Most people can complete the trip in 3-5 days, but make sure to plan time to hike the surrounding country. The giant rock formations of Labyrinth and Stillwater Canyons will keep you awestruck.

6. Tuolumne River, California

Designated a Wild & Scenic river in 1984, California’s Tuolumne River starts in the High Sierra mountains and runs for 62 miles before it enters the Stanislaus National Forest. Besides the gorgeous views, like lush meadows between glacially carved canyons, there is also a chance for serious paddlers to test their skill. Starting From Lumsden Bridge to Wards Ferry a series of tricky rapids run one after another for 18 miles. If you’d rather run it than portage it, this may be the route for you.

7. Noatak River, Alaska

On a list of the best canoe trips in North America, of course you have to include one within the largest undisturbed watershed on the continent: the Noatak River in Alaska. You have almost 400 miles of river to plan your route on, but if you’re going to paddle the whole thing (why not, right?) a good place to put in is Kotzebue. There’s also the option to split it up and come back again year after year. It is after all a clear, arctic river with serious fishing and great wildlife, like bear, sheep, caribou, and musk ox.

8. Wabakimi Provincial Park, Ontario

With over 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) of some of the best wilderness canoeing routes in the world, Wabakimi Provincial Park must be explored over a lifetime. You just have to keep going back. There’s plenty of action for whitewater paddlers, chances to explore the park’s long cultural history of Indigenous communities, and of course the fishing. Fly-in lodges put their clients on giant walleye and northern pike, but spending a week (or more) there in a canoe means you’ll have first dibs at all the best spots.

9. Nahanni River, Northwest Territories

Spend two weeks in the backcountry of Canada’s Northwest Territories on the classic Nahanni River. This river features Virginia Falls, a waterfall nearly twice the height of Niagara Falls. It also takes paddlers through some of Canada’s deepest river canyons, leads them past hot springs and other unique geological features. This river is so legendary that the United Nations declared the Nahanni River first World Heritage Site in 1978.

10. The Bowron Lakes Circuit, British Columbia

Paddle along the western slopes of the Cariboo Mountain Range in Bowron Lake Provincial Park. The Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit is world-renowned among paddlers, connecting 116 kilometers (72 miles) of lakes, waterways, and portages through the wilderness. You can spend 10 days paddling the whole circuit, or just paddle 2 to 4 days on the west side of the circuit.

Remember, sometimes the portages between each lake are the best part, at least they are later when you’re talking about them to your coworkers back in the real world.

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10 Gorgeous photos from the Boundary Waters Canoe Area

By: The Outbound Collective + Save to a List

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area, or BWCA, covers more than 1 million acres of Northeastern Minnesota along the Canadian border. This wilderness is largely untouched, with many "non-motorized-only" lakes where watercraft must be human-powered. There are over 1,200 canoe routes and 12 hiking trails, including Superior National Forest . 

People love to paddle and portage (carry their gear on land) between the thousands of lakes and rivers here. Check out these ten photos to get a taste of this one-of-a-kind region.

Note: Many of the listed locations share the photographers launch point (the boat landing where they started their trip) and not the specific location of the photo.

1. Lake Two

2. Grand Marais

3. Rifle Lake

4. Grand Marais

5. Angleworm Lake

7. Grand Marais

8. Grand Marais

9. Grand Marais

10. Alton Lake

Feature image by Will Mckay .

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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10 Things you need to do in Baja

wyld honeys

Ready for an unforgettable adventure in Baja, Mexico? We've rounded up the top 10 things you need to do while you're there. From visiting the famed boojum trees in Cataviña to exploring secluded waterfalls, there's something for everyone. by: wyld honeys

Journey to Wyoming’s premier snowmobiling destination: Togwotee Mountain Lodge

Samuel Brockway

A couple of snowmobiling newbies hop aboard some steel horse sleds to explore the mountains of Wyoming.

A peek through God's window

Heather Arnold

There is something about the promise of a warm sunrise and the open road. I answer the call of the mountains. And find peace and calm. And a healthy dose of waffles and walks!

Three-day winter itinerary for Yosemite National Park

Cindy Villasenor

Big Bend Bound: Crafting Your 3-Day Adventure

Erin Newman-Mitchell

The unparalleled beauty of the landscapes and mesmerizing dark skies at Big Bend National Park make for an essential bucket list experience. I’ll highlight and recommend some of my favorite things to see and do to help you make the most of your West Texas visit.

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Canoe the Wild

2023 Canoe Trip Alumns

• Allagash August 20-26, 2023
• Allagash, August 11-15, 2023
• Allagash, August 2-6, 2023 
• Allagash August 3-7, 2023
• Allagash June 27- July 1, 2023
• St Croix River, July 22-24, 2023
• Allagash, July 14-18, 2023
• Allagash July 6-12, 2023
• Allagash, late June, Maine women Hunters Group, 2023
• Bonaventure River, Quebec, June 2023
• St Croix, Custom private school group, May 2023
• Allagash Wilderness Waterway sponsored student trip, May 2023
• East Grand Adventure Race, May 13, 2023

2022 Canoe Trip Albums

• Penobscot Whitewater Student Trip, August 2022
• Allagash, August 5 day trip, 2022
• Allagash, August 15-19, 2022
• Downeast Allagash Photography Trip, 2022
• Allagash 7 day scout trip, 2022
• Allagash, July 22-26, 2022
• Allagash trip, July 24-29, 2022
• 3 Day St Croix, July 2022
• Allagash, July 2022
• Allagash, July 14-19, 2022
• Girls Camp 7 day Allagash trip, July 2022
• “I took my 74 year old mother on an Allagash Trip”, June 2022
• Allagash, July 1-5, 2022
• Allagash, June 19-24, 2022
• May Student Allagash Trip, 2022

2021 Canoe Trip Albums

• Allagash, May 3-7, 2021
• St. John, May 14-19, 2021
• Allagash, May 23-26, 2021
• St. Croix, June 3-4, 2021
• Allagash, June 27- July 2, 2021 
• Allagash June 28- July 2, 2021
• Allagash July 5-9, 2021
• Allagash July 7-11, 2021
• St Croix, July 18-21, 2021
• Allagash, July 18-22, 2021
• St Croix, July 23-25, 2021
• St Croix, July 27-31, 2021
• Allagash, July 28- Aug. 1, 2021 
• Allagash August 5-9, 2021 
• Allagash August 6-10, 2021
• Downeast Magazine Photography Workshop, Aug. 16-19.2021
• Allagash August 23-29, 2021 

Click here to view individual Trip albums from 2019 and earlier.

Photography Tips for your next Canoe Trip, By Dave Conley, 3-17-21

Below is a peak at our 2021 & 2022 canoe tripping seasons.

To view specific trips, click on Maine Canoe Trips and Canada Canoe Trips to follow links to albums.

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Empowering Indigenous Youth with Canadian River Exp/Dinjil Zhuh Adventures

From segregation to recreation: montgomery, ala., spurs growth with new montgomery whitewater park, flash flood sweeps away rafts on utah’s san juan, charlie walbridge releases “whitewater rescues: true stories of survival, bravery, and quick thinking”, palm equipment, pyranha celebrate bren orton with community paddle day aug. 31, modern whitewater spray skirts reviewed, extra, extra: oklahoma city to host 2028 olympic slalom events, the modern wannigan – pelican 1637 air case, the great loop: solo canoeist sets out on 6,000-mile odyssey throughout east coast, 2024 yukon river quest: fires shorten race, but don’t dowse energy or excitement, tribute to canoe sewmeister extraordinaire dan cooke, don’t use leash without a quick release: famed portland chef naomi pomeroy drowns in sup accident, checkmate: inside pelican’s new loungeboard sup, covet corner: new gear from nrs, put this on your bucket paddling list: death valley, want to kayak the famed northwest passage here’s your chance…, paddling perp: car thief tries to evade police in kayak, current designs wins circana’s outdoor sports retail performance award, tales from the cripps: episode 25 – a spiritual journey through poland creek with evan stafford and leif anderson, tales from the cripps: episode 24 – a chat with aniol serrasolses, tales from the cripps: episode 23 – paying it forward with andrey coto robles.

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Kevin Callan’s Top 50 Canoe Trips of Canada

Looking for the best canoe trips in Canada?

Here are the 50 best canoe trips of Ontario as chosen by one of Canada’s most famous paddlers. Bring your hockey stick and Kokanee…

Kevin Callan is the author of thirteen books, including the best selling “The Happy Camper”, the incredibly popular series of paddling guides, and most reviewed “Wilderness Pleasures: A Practical Guide to Camping Bliss”. On a regular basis, he presents across North America and has been a key speaker at all the major canoe events for over 25 years.

It’s no surprise that Kevin Callan lives in Peterborough, Ontario, deep in the heart of canoe country and home to the Canadian Canoe Museum. He has written 12 other books on canoe trips in Ontario, and this new book will be welcomed by his many readers, especially novice canoeists.

Some of these canoe trips are well known, and others are hidden secrets. Callan gives all the information paddlers need to complete each route, from detailed descriptions and maps of all access points to accurate portage lengths and important river features, as well as general advice on everything from running rapids to shuttle arrangements – all embellished with historical notes and his trademark humor.

Ranging from two-day paddles to week-long expeditions, Top 50 Canoe Routes of Ontario includes 40 routes taken from Callan’s Paddler’s Guides series, including: Turtle River, White River, Nellie Lake Loop, Eighteen-Mile Island Loop, Old Voyageur Channel, Big Trout Loop, Nipissing River, Barron Canyon, Leopold’s North Country Loop, The Pines Loop, Sturgeon Lake/Olifaunt Lake, Wabakimi Provincial Park, Bark Lake Loop, York River

The book also includes 10 new routes that Callan has yet to share with his readers. They include: Elliot Lake Blue Lake Loop, Lake Superior Provincial Park’s Old Woman Lake, Spanish River, Biscotasing Lake Loop, Island Lake, Upper Ottawa River, Algonquin’s South Panhandle

Beta 336 pages, 7 1/2″ X 9″ 50 maps, color throughout EAN: 9781554078349 ISBN: [ 1554078342 ] paperback 29.95 CDN / 29.95 US

Available on Amazon

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17 of the Best Canoe Trips in British Columbia

Explore the BC’s dramatic mountains and misty forests from a different perspective – the classic Canadian canoe.

There’s a large variety of incredible multi-day canoe trips in British Columbia, ranging from relaxing paddles on pristine glacier fed lakes to adventurous circuit expeditions with portages and river sections.

With that in mind, here are 17 of the best BC canoe trips you need to need to put on your paddling ‘to do’ list!

Stretching from Vancouver Island to Northern BC, these routes and circuits range from 2 to 10 days in length so you can pick the best fit for your own adventure.

Some are more remote than others, but all offer glorious scenery accompanied by a serene paddling experience.

BC canoe trips: about this list

This is not a definitive list of canoe trips in British Columbia but includes some of the most popular, fun and varied canoe adventures to be had!

• While we love canoeing, we have not paddled all of these BC canoe trips (yet). I have noted those that remain on our ‘to do’ list so you will know which I write about with personal experience
• All but one of the following canoe trips have established lakeshore camping facilities (usually with outhouses, fire pits, occasionally picnic tables, tent pads and bear caches)
• This post features flat water adventures only (with very short river sections). If you’re looking for river paddling options, I’d suggest researching the Similkameen, Thompson, Nicola, Nanaimo River, Cowichan River, Slocan River and the Upper Fraser River
• The majority of these BC canoe routes are first come, first serve – only one uses a reservation system (Bowron Lake)
• Prefer kayaks? No problem – all of these routes are suitable for kayaks too though portaging may be more laborious

This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase via one of these links, we may receive a percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.

Preparing for your paddling adventure

Help keep the wilderness wild and make sure you understand the principles of Leave No Trace before heading out on your BC canoe trip.

Also learn how to avoid a negative bear encounters , for a safer camping adventure.

Finally, ensure you have the 10 essentials to survive longer in the outdoors and know how to stay safe , in case things don’t go to plan.

Besides your 10 essentials, here are more items to bring:

• Proper canoe cart – For the BC canoe routes that have suitable portages for them, a canoe cart can be a big help. Make sure you buy or rent an expedition version, meaning a canoe specific portage cart (photo on this page ). The smaller ones with horizontal supports are built for kayaks and are a lot more difficult to maneuver
• Foldable chairs – Some of the campsites on the following BC canoe trips have picnic tables but most do not (and even then, picnic tables don’t have backrests!) We always bring our lightweight Helinox chairs on canoe trips for that extra comfort after a long day of paddling
• Camp stove – Yes, I know, cooking on the fire can feel like a non-negotiable part of a canoe trip but it’s important to have a backcountry stove for backup. Think fire bans, torrential rain and/or a severe lack of dry wood….
• Lightweight tarp – For rain or for shade, I wouldn’t ever consider going on a BC canoe trip without a tarp. My preference is to use an ultralight siltarp , which saves extra weight and bulk on portages

BC Canoe Circuits

The following are true canoe circuits, in that you finish exactly where you started after completing a circular route.

This occurrence is pretty rare in British Columbia due to topography, even with man-made portages. Nevertheless, there are three great examples.

Sayward Forest Canoe Circuit

Overview: 12 lakes, 12 portages with short river/creek/pond sections (47km total) Where: Vancouver Island, 30km from Campbell River Camping: 37 camping areas Fees/reservations: No fees, lots of free campgrounds Launch: Multiple options. Mohun Lake in Morton Lake Provincial Park is the most popular Rentals: Comox Valley Kayaks (75km from the circuit) Other things to do : Fishing Dogs: Permitted Suggested length of trip: 4 days For more info: Sayward Forest Canoe Circuit Guide

A destination usually associated with ocean paddling, Vancouver Island is also host to some excellent freshwater paddling opportunities.

Indeed, one of the few true canoe circuits in all of BC can be found in an assuming forest just northwest of Campbell River.

The 47km long canoe circuit comprises twelve lakes, twelve portages and a couple of short river sections.

Each lake is wonderfully memorable, ranging from the expansive Lower Campbell Lake to the tiny lily-padded Whymper Lake. Amor Lake, with its unusual shape and delicate islands, is a definite highlight.

Situated in a working forest, the Sayward Canoe Circuit is not as pristine as Bowron Lakes but feels surprisingly remote.

The campgrounds offer a variety of experiences, from very rustic (no facilities) and basic (outhouses only) to well-established (Rec Sites with picnic tables) and even developed (private campgrounds).

Emar Lakes Canoe Circuit

Overview: 7 small lakes, 6 portages in Emar Lakes Provincial Park Where: North Thompson region, 115km north of Kamloops Camping: 2 vehicle accessible campgrounds plus wild camping Fees/reservations: None, first come first serve Launch: Willowgrouse Lake, Janice Lake or Dytiscid Lake Other things to do : Fishing Dogs : Not recommended Suggested length of trip: 2 days

This compact canoe circuit is on my list for a trip in 2024. Seven pretty lakes form a complete loop, connected by six short portages.

The largest lake is Janice Lake (also known as Long Island Lake) which is about 2.5km across at its widest point. While it is possible to paddle the lakes in a day, a night or two helps to slow the experience down.

The opportunity to fish for rainbow trout is a major draw on this BC canoe trip, and indeed, for this area in general. The nearby road is sometimes nicknamed the ‘Fishing Highway’!

There are two vehicle-accessible Recreation Site campgrounds on two of the lakes and wild camping spots elsewhere on the circuit (no facilities). The Rec Sites also provide the best places to launch.

Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit

Overview: Parallelogram of 12 lakes, 8 portages plus a number of river sections (116km total) Where: Central Cariboo region, 110km east of Quesnel Camping: 54 designated camping areas, each with tent pads, outhouses and bear caches Fees/reservations: $60 per person for full circuit, $30 for west side, plus reservation fee (reservations are highly recommended and launch in fall before the summer paddling season) Launch: Kibbee Lake, after 2.4km portage (full circuit) / Bowron Lake (west side) Rentals: Multiple options close to launch Other things to do : Fishing, hiking opportunities Dogs : Not permitted Suggested length of trip : 6-10 days (3-5 for the west side) For more info: Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit paddling guide

Bowron Lakes is the most well-known (and popular) BC canoe route.

It’s easy to understand why – this epic 116km circuit in Bowron Lake Provincial Park is a perfect parallelogram of lakes, rivers and portages backdropped by wild, temperature rainforest and rugged mountains.

It is, however, no mean feat. Almost 11km of the total circuit distance takes the form of (often muddy) portages, with the longest being 2.4km

There is the option to explore just the west side of the Bowron Lakes Canoe Circuit , which still takes in a good handful of lakes and rivers as well as some outstanding views.

Bowron’s popularity means that the daily canoe launches are restricted.

Reservations are therefore all but essential during the summer months, with the booking system usually opening the October prior. For the 2024 season, reservations opened on 24th October 2023 at 7am PT.

Canoe Routes

For this section, I define a canoe route as one including at least two lakes, connected by a river or portage.

Some of these BC canoe routes feature many more than two lakes, with one even being considered a circuit of sorts.

One great aspect of choosing a canoe route over a circuit is being able to choose how much or little you want to paddle.

It is perfectly possible to change campsites every night or to explore the lake system from a base camp if you’re feeling lazy!

Main Lakes Canoe Route

Overview: 1 large lake with connections to 5 others in Main Lake Provincial Park Where: Quadra Island, a short ferry from Campbell River on Vancouver Island Camping: 7 established marine campsites with outhouses Fees/reservations: $5/per camping night/per person, first come first serve Launch: Mine Lake or Village Bay Lake Dogs: Not recommended Other things to do : Hiking opportunities, fishing Suggested length of trip: 2-4 days

Positively idyllic in summer, the Main Lakes Canoe Route is an ideal destination for a relaxing BC canoe trip. Five smaller lakes branch out from the largest one, the eponymous Main Lake.

Setting up a base camp at a campsite on Main Lake is the most convenient and comfortable way to explore the park.

There are seven camp areas to choose from on this BC canoe route, with some of the sites enjoying gorgeous sandy beaches (perfect for those long hot days!)

Besides visiting the other lakes in the area, it’s also possible to hike 1.6km to Yeatman Bay. This offers the unusual opportunity to visit the ocean on a freshwater trip. And the views across to Maurelle Island are stunning!

Powell Forest Canoe Route

Overview: 8 lakes, 5 portages in a horseshoe shape (63km total) Where: Sunshine Coast, east of Powell River Camping: 17 designated camping areas Fees/reservations: No fees, first come first serve Launch: Multiple options, Lois Lake is the most popular Rentals: Mitchell’s Other things to do : Fishing Dogs: Permitted Suggested length of trip: 4-6 days For more info: Paddling guide

Just a stone’s throw from the Salish Sea, an exciting off-the-beaten path adventure awaits on the Powell Forest Canoe Route .

Well-maintained portages connect 8 unique lakes, which are surrounded by misty temperate rainforest and stunning coastal mountains.

Most of the lakes in the Powell Forest are smallmand easily crossable in a few hours or less. The exception is Powell Lake, which accounts for 30km of the quoted canoe route length listed above.

Deep, mysterious, temperamental and seemingly never-ending, paddling this fjord is an experience in itself.

The Powell Forest Canoe Route is so close to being a circuit that a lot of people do call it one.

The technicality is that while it is an incredible adventure on its own merits, you do not start and finish at the same spot unless you double back or utilise a vehicle.

There are various ways to extend, shorten or otherwise adapt the route of this BC canoe trip to your own needs.

Lightning Lakes Canoe Route

Overview: Three lake chain in E.C. Manning Provincial Park Where: Between Hope and Princeton, just off Highway 3 Camping: Backcountry campsite on Strike Lake, with outhouses and bear cache Fees/reservations: $5/per camping night/per person, first come first serve Launch: Lightning Lake day-use area Rentals: Manning Park Resort Other things to do : Hiking opportunities, fishing Dogs: Allowed on leash Suggested length of trip: 2 days

This trio of imaginatively named lakes in Manning Park forms a short yet scenic BC canoe route, bordered by forested mountains and a lakeshore hiking trail.

Lightning Lake is the first lake on the chain, also the largest and most interesting to paddle. The portage to Flash Lake is 500m and the next to Strike Lake 1.5km.

There is a backcountry campsite just a short walk (600m) away from Strike Lake. Located in a grove of spruce trees, it’s primarily used by hikers.

From Strike Lake, it is possible to hike to Thunder Lake (6km return), the fourth and final lake of the chain.

In theory, you could also portage but the trail is narrow, slippery and littered with avalanche debris. Access to the actual lakeshore is also potentially tricky so I wouldn’t recommend it.

I was a little hesitant to include the Lightning Lakes Canoe Route on this list since it is relatively short and the portages were quite overgrown when we last visited.

The low water levels of Strike Lake can also prove to be a challenge in late summer. But it was the fun hike/canoe trip combination, with easy highway access that won me over!

Moose Valley Canoe Route

Overview: 12 small lakes in wetland area in Moose Valley Provincial Park Where: South Cariboo, 30km west of 100 Mile House Camping: 1 vehicle accessible campground, 2 rustic campsites (no facilities) Fees/reservations: None, first come first serve Launch: Marks Lake Other things to do : Fishing Dogs: Policy not specified Suggested length of trip: 2-3 days For more info: BC Parks guide

The Moose Valley Canoe Route winds through a maze of small, shallow lakes in a delicate wetland area. The pretty lakes are studded with intricate, reed-fringed islands. Moose are a fairly common sighting here.

Although it’s possible to paddle this canoe route in a day, many choose to stay for a few nights to soak in the tranquillity of the area. Facilities are limited but there are a couple of established marine sites on Long and Canoe Lakes.

Very close to Moose Valley (by BC standards anyway), is also the Flat Lake Canoe Route. There’s not much information about it available online, which is why I mention it within Moose Valley’s entry.

According to BC Parks, Flat Lake Provincial Park features several small lakes interconnected with short portages. It is suggested to be ideal for canoe trips of up to three days. We plan to one day paddle both Moose Valley and Flat Lake on the same road trip.

Clearwater/Azure Lakes Canoe Route

Overview: 2 lakes connected by a portage in Wells Gray Provincial Park Where: 65km north of Clearwater and Highway 5 Camping: 12 camping areas with outhouses and bear caches Fees/reservations: $5/per camping night/per person Launch: Southern end of Clearwater Lake Rentals: Clearwater Lake Tours Other things to do : Hiking opportunities, fishing, waterfalls Dogs: Not recommended Suggested length of trip: 5-8 days for both lakes (3-4 for Clearwater only)

Positioned at a right angle to each other, Clearwater Lake and Azure Lake are connected by a short portage.

With both of these glacial-fed lakes being an impressive 22km long, it is possible to paddle for up to a week and still have the chance to see something new.

We’ve had this BC canoe trip on our list for years but we keep having to reschedule (most recently in 2023) due to wildfires. It is on our 2024 calendar.

Wells Gray Provincial Park is best known for its collection of spectacular waterfalls. This canoe route has one of its own to complement the others, the beautiful Rainbow Falls at the end of Azure Lake.

There are a total of twelve camping areas between both lakes, with most being on Clearwater Lake. Being further away from the launch point, Azure Lake is usually less busy. There is, however, a water taxi service that can pick up and drop off paddlers anywhere along the route.

Turner Lake Canoe Route

Overview: 7 lakes, 7 portage chain in Tweedsmuir South Provincial Park Where: West Chilcotin region, 70km east of Bella Coola Camping: 7 established marine campsites with outhouses and bear caches Fees/reservations: $5/per camping night/per person, first come first serve Launch: Turner Lake (fly-in or 16km hike) Rentals: Tweedsmuir Air Other things to do : Hiking opportunities (with alpine options), fishing, waterfall Dogs : Not recommended More info: BC Parks Guide Suggested length of trip: 4-5 days

One of the most remote BC canoe trips listed here, the Turner Lakes Canoe Route is a real wilderness adventure.

Those who make the effort to hike or fly in will find a series of seven high-elevation lakes, most of which have views of dramatic snow-capped mountains. Another highlight is the chance to see Hunlen Falls, Canada’s third-highest waterfall (401m).

While the portages are on the shorter side (less than 600m), they are not to be underestimated. The changeable weather can prove a challenge too.

Rather than attempt to hike or fly in their boat, most canoeists choose to arrange a canoe rental at Turner Lake. Two rustic cabins can also be booked.

The Turner Lake Canoe Route is definitely high on my bucket list of BC canoe trips. I plan to combine it with an alpine hiking adventure in the Ptarmigan Lakes area as this couple did , hopefully in 2025.

Nazko Lakes Canoe Route

Overview: 7 lake, 6 portage chain with short creek/river sections in Nazko Lake Provincial Park Where: Chilcotin region, 150km northwest of Williams Lake Camping: 4 established campsites (no facilities) Fees/reservations: No fees, first come first serve Launch: Deerpelt Lake Other things to do : Fishing Dogs: Not recommended Suggested length of trip: 1-3 days For more info: BC Parks Guide

The Nazko Lakes Canoe Route takes in seven small but pretty lakes in the Chilcotin region.

One of the lakes is so tiny that it does not have a name. The portages are apparently short and easy, all being less than 800m with little elevation gain.

The paddling distance adds up to 20km, with Tanilkul Lake being the longest lake at 5km. It is also cited as the most beautiful lake on the chain.

Moose are a fairly common sight here, with the endangered American White Pelican also in the area (the reason I most want to check it out!)

There are no camping facilities on this BC canoe route besides the vehicle-accessible campground on the first lake (Deerpelt). There are, however, four established spots for camping, spaced out over four lakes.

Please note that this park was damaged in wildfires in 2017 and one of the camping areas is still closed at the time of writing (Tanikul South Campsite). Check for updates on the BC Parks website.

Nanika-Kidprice Canoe Route

Overview: 4 lake, 3 portage chain, most of which is in Nenikëkh / Nanika-Kidprice Provincial Park Where: Northern Interior, 75km southwest of Houston Camping: 4 established campsites with outhouses and bear cache plus 4 ‘rustic’ sites (no facilities) Fees/reservations: No fees, first come first serve Launch: Lamprey Lake Other things to do : Fishing, waterfall, hiking opportunities (unmaintained routes) Dogs: Allowed on leash Suggested length of trip: 3-5 days

This lesser-visited canoe route lies in a valley between two mountain ranges in Northern British Columbia.

Four high-elevation lakes line up to offer 30km of paddling, accessed with the assistance of three portages. The longest is 2.2km but is mostly level.

In addition to excellent views of snow-capped mountain peaks, the Nanika-Kidprice Canoe Route offers a number of beautiful beaches to camp and relax on. Powerful Nanika Falls (18m) can be found on the final lake of the chain, Kidprice Lake.

From reading trip reports, the fishing on the route sounds promising (particularly for rainbow trout). This combined with the scenery and relative obscurity of the route, makes the Nanika-Kidprice a very appealing BC canoe trip.

Nation Lakes Canoe Route

Overview: 4 lakes, 3 rivers chain, most of which is located in Nation Lakes Provincial Park Where: North Central BC, northwest of Fort St James Camping: 8 provincial park campsites plus Recreation Sites and wild camping Fees/reservations: None, first come first serve Launch: Four different access points, Tsayta Lake is popular for canoe route use Other things to do : Fishing Dogs : Permitted Suggested length of trip: 7-10 days

With an epic total distance of 120km, the Nation Lakes Canoe Route is perfect for anyone wanting a long paddling adventure in pristine wilderness.

Due to this canoe route’s remote location in Northern BC, you’re also unlikely to see anyone else outside of hunting season.

Besides the isolation, wide open views are one of the major attractions, alongside the high paddling-to-portage ratio.

Unusually, the connections between the lakes are river sections so there are no formal portages. It may, however, be necessary to portage due to low water or logjams.

BC Parks doesn’t detail too much about this canoe route, so I’d suggest having a read of trip reports – examples here and here .

A canoe rental and shuttle service is available via Chuchi Lake Fishing Lodge , the latter of which I will likely use myself when we paddle this route.

Large lakes

British Columbia is characterised by its immense mountain ranges, rugged coastline and narrow valleys. The latter are often filled with long, narrow lakes.

Some are man-made (reservoirs) while others are fed by glaciers. Such large lakes lend themselves well to canoe tripping, though can be susceptible to high wind and waves.

In this section, I highlight five large valley lakes that offer canoe-tripping opportunities (each tried and tested by us). There are, however, plenty more to discover.

Buttle Lake

Overview: 23km long reservoir lake set in a picturesque valley Where: Vancouver Island, 65km southwest of Campbell River Camping: 4 established marine campsites with outhouses Fees/reservations: $10/per camping night/per person, first come first serve Launch: Multiple options, including official boat launches Rentals: Strathcona Park Lodge Other things to do : Hiking opportunities, fishing, waterfall Dogs: Not recommended Suggested length of trip: 2-4 days

Buttle Lake is one of the most defining features of Strathcona Provincial Park .

Mountains rise steeply from the edge of this narrow turquoise lake, creating impressive valley views. A large waterfall cascades directly into the lake at the southern end.

There are four marine campsites on the lake, with Rainbow Island being a favourite for families due to its convenient location. At Phillips Creek campsite, a 6.6km trail leads up into the subalpine Marble Meadows.

Please be aware that Buttle Lake can be exceptionally windy, especially on hot days, and some of the shoreline can be steep.

If desired, you can also paddle north into Upper Campbell Lake for a longer canoe trip – there is another provincial marine campsite here as well as some Recreation Sites and wild camping options.

Okanagan Lake

Overview: 135km long lake Where: Okanagan Valley, adjacent Highway 97 Camping: 7 established marine campsites with picnic tables and outhouses Fees/reservations: $13/per night/per camping party, first come first serve Launch: Numerous options – Indian Rock near Naramata is our go-to Rentals: Multiple local options Other things to do : Hiking opportunities, fishing Dogs: Not recommended Suggested length of trip : 3-4 days

Stretching an impressive 135km from top to bottom, Okanagan Lake is one of the most impressive bodies of water in BC’s southern interior.

Okanagan Lake also very windy at times and very popular with boats in the summer so consider planning a trip for the shoulder seasons.

While there are several large communities and a highway located on the shores of the lake, a few areas have escaped development.

One of these is Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park , which sits on the lake’s eastern shore between Kelowna and Penticton.

Most of the shoreline of the park is steep, rising into remarkably rugged mountains (watch for bighorn sheep!) The few flatter sections have been developed into marine campsites, which can be used as overnight stopovers or for base camp use.

Whatever you do, make sure to take a trip to Rattlesnake Island , a scenic spot that was once the centre of an international incident involving hostages and a miniature golf course (the remains of which are still there).

Murtle Lake

Overview: Large lake in shape of a backwards L, part of Wells Gray Provincial Park Where: Between Clearwater and Valemount, close to Highway 5 Camping: 19 designated camping areas with 69 campsites, each with outhouses and bear caches Fees/reservations: $5/per camping night/per person, first come first serve Launch: Murtle Lagoon, after 2.5km portage Rentals: Murtle Canoes Other things to do : Hiking opportunities (with alpine options), fishing Dogs : Not permitted Suggested length of trip : 4-7 days For more info: Complete paddling guide

Murtle Lake has the distinction of being North America’s largest canoe-only lake.

Such peace and freedom offer opportunities for not just a peaceful BC canoe trip, but an adventurous one if desired.

The lake itself is divided in two by 15km West Arm (more campsites, busier) and a 20km North Arm (more dramatic views, quieter). The width varies but is never more than 3km.

Wide sandy beaches dot the shores, with intricate islands providing the perfect place to stop for a snack break. 2000m peaks provide amazing mirror lake reflections on calm days.

Two lakeside trailheads offer access into the alpine itself, for a chance to see Murtle Lake from above too.

Located at an elevation of 1067m and fed by a glacial river, Murtle Lake is noticeably cooler than most of the other BC canoe routes listed here. So be sure to bring extra warm layers (even in the height of summer) as well as your fishing rod.

Slocan Lake

Overview: 39km long lake, the majority of which is part of Valhalla Provincial Park Where: West Kootenay region, between Nelson and Revelstoke Camping: 8 provincial marine campgrounds with outhouses, picnic tables and bear caches plus two Recreation Sites ( Bannock Point , Wragge Beach ) Fees/reservations: No fees, first come first serve Launch: 7+ options, we prefer Slocan village Rentals: Smiling Otter Other things to do: Hiking opportunities, fishing, historical artefacts Dogs : Allowed on leash in marine campgrounds (and select trails) Suggested length of trip : 3-5 days For more info: Complete Valhalla Provincial Park guide

Slocan Lake is our go-to destination for lazy summer canoe trips, when we much prefer the idea of swimming to portaging! This is the perfect place to sunbathe, fish, float and relax.

The western shoreline of this long lake features a string of dreamy beach campgrounds looking out onto the turquoise-coloured water and mountains beyond. Our favourite campsites are Ben Browns and Cory’s Ranch.

This is the perfect place to swim, sunbathe, fish, float and relax. Highway 6 borders the lake on the other side but somehow seems a world away. Our favourite campsites are Ben Browns and Cory’s Ranch.

If you prefer a more adventurous BC canoe trip, Slocan still delivers in buckets. There are five hiking trailheads along the lake, offering the chance to explore beautiful waterfalls, old mining cabins and even venture into the alpine.

Christina Lake

Overview: 18km long lake adjacent to Gladstone Provincial Park Where: West Kootenay region, easy access from Highway 3 Camping: 7 established marine campsites with picnic tables and outhouses Fees/reservations: $13/per night/per camping party, first come first serve Launch: Texas Creek Campground Other things to do : Hiking opportunities, fishing Dogs : Not permitted Suggested length of trip : 2-3 days

As well as being one of the warmest lakes in British Columbia, Christina Lake is also known for its amazingly clear water.

The shore is lined by several fine sandy beaches, perfect for swimming and sunbathing in summer. It’s all backdropped by the Monashee Mountains.

Like Okanagan Lake, this BC canoe trip is best taken outside of summer if peace is a priority. The southern shores of Christina Lake are fringed with vacation homes – expect to see many power boats.

The northern half of the lake is surrounded by Gladstone Provincial Park, but even then, some of the shoreline remains private and is dotted with more houses.

While Christina Lake isn’t our top pick for a wilderness trip, it’s still worth consideration for a short paddle adventure. We enjoyed tranquil mornings and evenings as well as the gorgeous views and productive fishing.

For more paddling inspiration:

9 Extraordinary Kayak and Canoe Trips You Must Try in Canada

7 Canadian Canoe Trips That Should Be On Your Bucket List

Canoeing Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Emerald Lake: Complete Guide and Comparison

Paddling Desolation Sound By Canoe, British Columbia

Wallace Island: An Idyllic Kayaking Destination in British Columbia

A Week in the Wilderness of Kejimkujik National Park, Nova Scotia

Kayaking the 100 Wild Islands, Eastern Shore, Nova Scotia

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One half of the Canadian/British couple behind Off Track Travel, Canada. Jean Robert (JR) is up for anything, but you’re most likely to find him either snowboarding, fishing or building something. Gemma and JR are currently based in the beautiful Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada.

Monday 26th of July 2021

Thanks, this site is great, we were supposed to canoe on Kootney Lake with our crew this summer but the wildfires are terrible there right now and we are are last minute canoe route "shopping" to find a new trip. You mentioned the Nation Lakes above, we did that last year, if you'd like a sneak peak of some of the route, log jams, fishing etc. Check out the video we made https://youtu.be/aXF4IBN5FKE Happy Adventures and thanks for the info!

Explore Magazine

Hiking, Camping, Paddling, Cycling, Adventure — Canada's best source for Inspiring Outdoor Experiences.

25 Incredible Ontario Canoe Routes You Need to Paddle

Michaela Ludwig

July 25, 2021

There’s no place in Canada that’s as canoe-crazy as Ontario, and it’s easy to see why.

To start, the province is home to more than a quarter-million lakes. That accounts for one-fifth of the world’s fresh water. You could say that life in Ontario is lived at the lake’s edge. But it’s not just lakes; navigable rivers and tributaries are found in abundance too.

Canoeing in Ontario is what poutine is to Quebec, and Moraine Lake is to Alberta: iconic . The province’s waterways are steeped with Canadian heritage. First Nations were the first to identify that rivers like the Mattawa and French were effectively ‘water trails’, and they used them as important early routes. Later, Voyageurs (fur traders) would do the same. It’s a history that Canadian school children all learn, and there are few things that feel as Canadian as canoeing a heritage river in Ontario.

Today, canoeing is a recreational pursuit, but the raw wilderness afforded by backcountry paddling still invigorates spirited adventure. Here are 25 Ontario routes to inspire your next quintessentially Ontario canoe trip.

Routes suggested by Explore editor David Webb. 

1. Beaverhouse Ranger Station

Quetico provincial park.

Region : Atikokan

Put in : Start at the northeast corner of Beaverhouse Lake.

Take out : This is a loop and you’ll come back to Beaverhouse Lake.

Distance : 64 kilometres

Difficulty : Easy

Description : Known also as the Cirrus Lake – The Sue Falls Loop , this paddle should take you about four days. The route travels across five lakes with seven portages. You’ll enjoy long, uninterrupted stretches of paddling, with portages few and far-between. While paddling close to the north shore of Quetico Lake, look for the Anishinabe rock paintings (pictographs) on the granite cliffs.

URL :  ontarioparks.com/park/quetico/activities

2. Falls Chain Loop

Put in : Start at Cache Bay.

Put out : This is a loop route, so you’ll journey back to your put-in point.

Distance : 168 kilometres

Difficulty : Difficult

Description : It should take 8-10 days to complete this trip. This should be reserved for strong, experienced paddlers. You’ll paddle through 26 lakes and cross 37 portages. Stop at Silver Falls, follow smaller lakes and streams and paddle alongside the American border.

3. Lady Evelyn River

Lady evelyn smoothwater provincial park.

Region : Timiskaming

Put in : If paddling the north branch, you can access the entry at Gamble Lake. If you plan to paddle the south branch, you’ll need a floatplane to take you to Florence Lake.

Put out : Access off the river is either via floatplane or by paddling through several lakes to the access at Mowat Landing.

Distance : About five to seven days, depending on the route you decide to take.

Description : This is a wilderness river, known to have some awesome early-season whitewater. The north branch is easier to access at the beginning, and can be done by vehicle. This route is shorter and passes by three large waterfalls. The north and south branches will meet during your trip, and then the river begins to drop in elevation, and steeply, with rapids and falls and rugged portages. The river will then split again after paddling through Katherine Lake, once known as Divide Lake. Either way you choose, your course will be scenic, rugged and natural.

URL :  ontarioparks.com/park/ladyevelynsmoothwater/activities  &  smoothwater.com

4. Lake Temagami/Obabika Lake Loop

Finlayson point provincial park.

Region : Temagami

Put in : Launch your canoe or kayak in Lake Temagami.

Put out : This route is a loop and will bring you back to Lake Temagami

Distance : 88 kilometres

Description : This trip will take you at least five days and four portages. Starting at Lake Temagami, you’ll paddle to the North Arm. You’ll paddle through Sharp Rock Inlet, Diamond Lake, Wakimika Lake and river and then into Obabika Lake and through Obabika Inlet. Once you’ve paddled through the inlet, you’ll come back to Lake Temagami. Be prepared for strong headwinds, which can create big waves.

URL :  ontarioparks.com/park/finlaysonpoint/activities  &  myccr.com/canoedb

5. Sturgeon River/Wawiagama Lake

Sturgeon river provincial park.

Put in : You can put in at Paul Lake, via floatplane, or further north along river where the Portelance timber access road crosses.

Put out : You can get a floatplane out of Wawiagama Lake, or by vehicle at the Goulard Lumber Road.

Distance : It depends on the route you choose, but it should take about a week to complete.

Description : There are several options when paddling the Sturgeon River, but the most popular route includes the length of the river, and then paddling upstream on the Obabika River and onto Wawiagama Lake. A scattering of portages and some class I and II rapids lead to campgrounds along the way. This trip can be combined with other routes to make it a longer voyage.

URL :  ontarioparks.com/park/sturgeonriver/activities

6. Maple Mountain Route

Obabika river provincial park.

Put in : Take Highway 558 to Mowat Landing to launch.

Put out : This is a loop route, so you’ll end up back at Mowat Landing.

Distance : 114 kilometres

Description : This route is not for the novice, nor the faint-of-heart. The trip should take about six days and includes 16 portages. The Montreal River, Lady Evelyn River, Lady Evelyn Lake, Sucker Gut Lake, Hobart Lake, Bill Lake – these are just a few of the waterways you’ll have to navigate on your journey.  Start your journey on a Monday to avoid weekend traffic. Be sure to hike up Maple Mountain before paddling home again.

URL :  myccr.com/canoedb

7. Kopka River

Wabakimi provincial park.

Region : Thunder Bay

Put in : The Via Rail stop at Allanwater Bridge (you can arrive by train from Toronto)

Put out : Paddle from Wigwasan Lake to the take-out point at the end of Bukeniga Lake Access Road. This is about 30 kilometres from Armstrong Station, a small community on Highway 527 from Thunder Bay, and a Via Rail stop.

Distance : 225 kilometres

Description : This incredible excursion will take almost two weeks to complete, depending on the weather. If you start at Allanwater Bridge, you’ll head upriver on the Brightsand and then on the Kashishibog River. This part should take about five days. Portage to Redsand Lake and then dip into the headwaters of the Kopka River. You’ll spend another five days paddling down the Kopka, and you’ll be rewarded with one of the most spectacular paddles northern Ontario has to offer.

URL :  albinger.me/tag/kopka-river-canoe-route

8. Ogoki River

Put out : Albany River, and have a pre-arranged ride back to your vehicle.

Distance : 460 kilometres

Description : This epic 14-day voyage is not a loop trip, so some pre-planning is required to make sure you can get back to your vehicle. You’ll cross 20 portages on this two-week journey, the longest being about 300 metres. The fishing is said to be fantastic, and if you’re lucky you’ll see a lot of wildlife.

9. Marie Louise Lake

Sleeping giant provincial park.

Put in   &   Put out : You’ll paddle around Marie Louise Lake, entering and exiting the water from the boat launch.

Distance : 10 kilometres

Difficulty : Intermediate

Description : This is an excellent option for those that want to paddle, but might want a few good breaks here and there. You can camp at the Marie Louise Lake campground and put in and out of the lake at your leisure. Canoes and kayaks are available for rent from the park store.

URL :  ontarioparks.com/park/sleepinggiant/activities

10. Charlton-Three Narrows-Iroquois Bay-Whitefish Falls Loop

Killarney provincial park.

Region : Killarney

Put in : Widgawa Lodge.

Put out : This is a loop trip, so you’ll end up back at the lodge to unload.

Distance : 75 kilometres

Difficulty : Moderate

Description : This trip should take about seven days. There are plenty of places to camp on Crown land along the way. This seems to be a route that’s less popular, so you might not run into as many people on this loop. There are about 20 portages, with the longest being 1,200 metres. As some of the route passes through Whitefish River First Nation land, it is advised to obtain permission from the band office before crossing.

11. Bell Lake-David Lake

Put in & Put out : This is a loop trip. You’ll start and end at Bell Lake.

Distance : 24 kilometres

Description : This trip should take about two days to complete, which makes it a great option for a weekend paddle. You’ll pass through some of the most beautiful lakes in the park, and you’ll also get the chance to see white quartzite hills from David Lake. There are four portages, but they are relatively easy. The longest portage is 745 metres. Reserve a camping spot as early as possible, if you want to go during the peak summer period, and be sure to take in some hikes along the route.

12. Mississauga River

Kawartha highlands provincial park.

Region : Bancroft

Put in : Take Highway 36 north and then Highway 507. Turn right on Mississauga Dam Road and make another right at the stop sign. You can access the river from Iron Bridge.

Put out : Leave your other vehicle on Highway 36 where the river enters Lower Buckhorn Lake.

Distance : 21 kilometres

Description : Although this journey is not a loop trip, it is another great option for a weekend away. It will include 15 portages, the longest of which is only 360 metres. There is cellphone service along the river. Aluminum canoes or kayaks are recommended for tackling this trip. You’ll encounter several rapids and a few short, scenic waterfalls along the way. The trip could be done in one day if you ‘re keen.

13. French River Canoe Route

French river provincial park.

Region : Killareny

Put in : Pine Cove, at the end of Highway 528A.

Put out : This is a loop route, so you’ll end at Pine Cove.

Distance : 20 kilometres

Description : This trip takes about four days to complete, but it can be customized if you want to do the journey in less time (there are 13 access points along the river). You’ll find rapids, minimal portages and beautiful scenery as you paddle the historic route of First Nations groups and explorers. This trip is perfect for the intermediate paddler that is looking to improve their skills.

URL :  trailpeak.com/trail-French-River-Canoe-Route-near-Sudbury

14. Restoule-Upper French River Route

Restoule provincial park.

Region : North Bay

Put in : Launch your canoe on Restoule Lake, about 75 kilometres southwest of North Bay on Highway 534.

Put out : This is a loop trip, so you’ll end up back at Restoule Lake.

Distance : 72 kilomteres

Description : You’ll spend about five days on this trip and trek over 14 portages, the longest of which is about 900 metres. There is beautiful scenery, and you’ll be paddling a route with history – Champlain and the Voyageurs navigated one of the same portages you’ll venture through. With lots of wildlife to be seen and plenty of fishing to be done, this promises to be a great trip.

15. Petawawa River

Algonquin provincial park.

Region : Algonquin

Put in : Lake Travers

Put out : Lake McManus

Distance : 2-4 days

Description : This is the trip of a lifetime for the whitewater canoeist. You won’t find a more exhilarating trip, full of wildlife, stunning scenery and stories to last a lifetime. Most canoeists leave about four days for the trip. Those that are comfortable with the route might accomplish the trip in three days, or even two.

URL :  loonislandoutdoors.com

16. Rain Lake

Put in : Launch your canoe on Rain Lake, at access point #4.

Put out : This isn’t exactly a loop trip, but more like a there-and-back trip. You’ll make it to Moccasin Lake and then come back again.

Distance : 30 kilometres

Description : This is a great introduction to wilderness canoeing. There’s quite a bit of lake travel, easy portages and the opportunity for a side trip. Head to Moccasin’s North Arm if you’re interested in some optional river travel.

17. Meanest Link

Put in : You’ll put in at Oxtongue Lake.

Put out : This is a loop trip (albeit, a long one) and you’ll end up back at Oxtongue Lake.

Distance : 68 kilometres

Difficulty : Difficult (they don’t call it  The Meanest Link  for nothing!)

Description : Twenty days, 93 portages and the meanest trip you’ll take in a canoe. This route combines four smaller routes – Oxtongue to Huntsville, Huntsville to Brent, Brent to Openongo and Openongo back to Oxtongue. Named after Algonquin Outfitter’s Bill Swift Sr., this route is a combination of four difficult canoe routes that connects the four stores in Algonquin Park.

URL :  algonquinoutfitters.com/meanest-link

18. Georgian Bay Coast

Region : Bruce Peninsula

Put in : Tobermory’s Little Tub Harbour.

Put out : If you choose to paddle the length of the bay, you would end near Owen Sound.

Distance : 237 kilometres

Difficulty : Moderate to difficult

Description : Tobermory to Owen Sound is the entire coast, but you can make this trip as long or as short as you want. View lighthouses at day and at night, explore inlets and coves, and discover abandoned fishing villages. This isn’t a loop, unless you turn around and paddle back where you came from, so plan accordingly.

URL :  thorncrestoutfitters.com/paddling

19. Kingston Islands

Thousand islands national park.

Region : Gananoque

Put in : Cataraqui Canoe Club’s public boat launch, just off Rideau Street.

Put out : Make your way back to your starting point to unload.

Distance : 3.5 kilometres from the club to Cedar Island, and another 5 kilometres between Cedar and Milton Island

Description : Located on the eastern end of Lake Ontario, you’ll paddle around the Kingston Islands, Cedar and Milton. This trip should take a full day. You can get to the beaches on Wolfe Island, when the winds are light.

URL :  frontenacarchbiosphere.ca/explore

20. Superior Shore

Pukwaska national park.

Region : Marathon

Put in : Hattie Cove Visitor Centre

Put out : Michipicoten Bay, near Wawa

Distance : 160 kilometres

Description : Lake Superior is known for being large, wild and cold. And you’re going to paddle its coast! Be prepared for rough weather, tempered by some of the most rugged and untamed scenery that you’ll never be able to find anywhere else. Camp within the park, and then on Crown land once you’re past Pukaskwa River and heading south to Michipicoten.

URL :  pc.gc.ca/eng/pukaskwa  (download the trip planner PDF)

21. Missinaibi River

Northern ontario.

Region : Algoma

Put in : Near the town of Mattice

Put out : Near the town of Moosonee

Distance : 297 kilometres

Description : On the Missinaibi River , you’ll undergo 7 portages during this long trip, the longest being about 2,530 metres. It’ll take about two weeks to complete the journey, and it’s certainly not for the faint of heart. Black Feather Rapids, Kettle Falls, the rapids around Alice Island, Thunderhouse Falls, Hell’s Gate Canyon – all of this and more awaits!

22. Algoma’s Ranger Lake Loop

Put in : Start on Ranger Lake, Saymo Lake or Gong Lake.

Put out : This is a loop route, so you’ll reverse course and come back to your starting point.

Distance:  104 kilometres

Description : Nine days, 37 portages and one amazing canoe trip! Bring your camping gear for the numerous campsites along the way, and don’t forget to pack your fishing gear – brook and lake trout are available in abundance. You’ll pass through Ranger, Saymo and Gong Lakes, West Aubinadong River, Megisan, Prairie Grass Lakes and Nushatogaini River on this loop.

23. Goulais River

Put in : You’ll start your trip at Witchdoctor Lake.

Put out : Whitman Dam Falls, with a short walk up to Whitman Dam Road.

Distance : 70 kilometres

Description : There are a few different options for take-out points along the way, so this trip could be done as a five-day stretch, or you can do it as an overnight or even a day paddle. You’ll find waterfalls, rapids and great scenery along this route.

URL :  myccr.com/canoeroutes

24. Batchawana River

Batchawana river provincial park.

Put in : You’ll start on the river at the Batchawana Station, on the Algoma Central Railway, about 128 kilometres north of Sault Ste. Marie.

Put out : Highway 17, at the mouth of the Batchawana River.

Distance : 48 kilometres

Description : This trip should be done in May and early June, when the water levels are high enough. It takes about 4 days. You’ll find the water moves quite swiftly, passing through some spectacular Algoma country along the way. There are good camping locations along the river.

25. Lower Madawaska

Ottawa area.

Region : Ottawa

Put in : Aumond’s Bay, near Quadeville

Put out : Griffith at Highway 41

Distance : 40 kilometres

Difficulty : Easy to moderate, depending on time of year.

Description : Nicknamed “The Mad,” this river isn’t as bad as the name might suggest. This is known as a paddler’s playground for the long, flatwater paddle to the first rapid. In the spring, the river attracts higher-calibre kayakers, but in the summer, when the water’s level is lower and the speed is slower, this is a great trip for beginner paddlers or families. The Lower Mad is known to be a great learning river. The entire route can be done in two or three days, or you can exit at Buck Bay and make it a one-day trip.

URL :  ottawavalley.travel/docs/paddleroutes

Gear Roundup

Canoe and kayak journeys like these require specialized gear and apparel. Here are a few of our preferred picks:

• Mustang Survival Highwater 60L Waterproof Gear Hauler
• Mustang Survival Khimera Dual Flotation PFD
• Mustang Survival Callan Waterproof Jacket

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