Canoe, kayak, and paddle with Parks Canada
Discover the best spots for canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), rafting, river canoeing, and canoe camping. From lakes and rivers, swamps and bays, to oceans and whitewater: there's something for all tastes and levels.
Be prepared and choose a course appropriate to your experience level. Remember that weather conditions can change rapidly and affect water level or create navigation challenges. Be self-sufficient at all times and remember that you are responsible for your own safety. Know the emergency protocols and rules of the destination you are visiting.Water activities involve risks
Explore by province
Newfoundland and Labrador
Location: Terra Nova National Park
Feel the rhythm of nature, the waters of the park are calling.
Don’t miss
- Dip your paddle in the numerous freshwater rivers, lakes, and ponds. Choose the paddle adventure that best suits you from laid-back family-friendly experiences to multi-day trips that include portages.
- Discover over 200 km of beautiful rugged coastline, sheltered coves and inlets in your sea kayak.
Pro tip: Rent a watercraft from Happy Adventure Tours, located at the Visitor Centre.
Location: Gros Morne National Park
Always dreamed of sea kayaking in a fjord? You will be spoiled for choice!
Don’t miss
- Indulge in a trip to Trout River Pond, the most accessible of the fjord lakes within the park. Enjoy breathtaking views of the world-renowned intriguing landscape of the Tablelands from the north shore. On the south are the contrasting steep cliffs and the forested Gregory Plateau. Caribou, moose, bears and arctic hares live in this area, keep an eye out.
Pro tip: If you are unfamiliar with the routes, Parks Canada recommends that you consult with experienced paddlers or join a guided tour.
Nova Scotia
Location: Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site
Enjoy some of the best paddling in Atlantic Canada.
Don’t miss
- Head up the Mersey River, exploring the many side streams that wildlife call home. Remember to give them the space they need.
- Enjoy the Frozen Ocean Loop, a favourite among seasoned canoers and perfect for first-time canoe campers. Check the map and stay at least one night on Frozen Ocean Lake where you’ll find some of the finest backcountry campsites.
Pro tip: Rent a canoe, kayak, or stand up paddle board including safety equipment or book shuttles for drop-off or pick-up.
New Brunswick
Location: Kouchibouguac National Park
Explore the waterways where the Mi’kmaq have paddled for thousands of years.
Don’t miss
- Test your balance while paddle boarding over the Kougibouguac lagoon.
- Travel west along the Kouchibouguac River to view the famous “bonsai” pine from the water.
Pro tip: Rent a paddle board at Kouchibouguac’s summer activity hub: Ryans equipment rental, located next to the Southern Kouchibouguac campground.
Location: Fundy National Park
Experience the thrill of Fundy’s record-setting tides.
Don’t miss
- Walk along the ocean floor at low tide and admire the treasures it holds. Six hours later, hop in a sea kayak and paddle the same area at high tide! Watch as intertidal mud flats are submerged by lapping waves. This is truly an experience like no other.
- Prefer the waters of a lake? Treat yourself to a trip to Bennett Lake or Wolfe Lake.
Pro tip: Rent a kayak, canoe or paddle board at the Bennett Lake Boathouse.
Quebec
Location: Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve
Paddle through monoliths on the crystal clear waters of Mingan Archipelago You’ll probably have the chance to watch seals, whales and marine birds.
Don’t miss
- Venture out in a sea kayak with your guide and make Grande Île your base camp. Paddle at dawn, sunset, or even under the milky way. You may even be lucky enough to watch in awe as the sea lights up with bioluminescent plankton.
- More of a paddleboarder? Join a guided tour to Grosse Île au Marteau. All equipment is included and if the weather conditions become unfavourable, there will be a return trip by boat.
Pro tip: Ocean conditions in Mingan change very fast. It is therefore recommended to be accompanied by a guide at all times.
Location: Forillon National Park
Get an up-close look at the incredible sights of the sea, beaches and cliffs, where seals, seabirds and whales are the main attraction!
Don’t miss
- Admire the sunset on one of the most beautiful beaches in Quebec from your paddleboard. Explore the stunning surroundings of Penouille Beach in Gaspé Bay.
- Set off in a sea kayak with a professional guide to explore an impressive seal haulout.
Pro tip: Rent paddling gear on site and don't miss the opportunity to sign up for a guided tour!
Location: Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park
As a seasoned paddler, navigate Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park according to the winds, tides and currents.
Don’t miss
- Find islands, lighthouses, thriving wildlife, and the Saguenay Fjord, a landscape carved by the last ice age, imposing impressive 300-metre-high cliffs.
- New to paddling? Treat yourself to the company of an experienced guide.
Pro tip: You may have the privilege of observing marine mammals in their habitat. Remember to maintain a minimum distance of 200 metres from whales and 400 metres from species at risk such as the St. Lawrence beluga and the blue whale.
Location: La Mauricie National Park
La Mauricie is a favourite for paddlers.
Don’t miss
- Avoid the crowds of busier lakes with a paddling outing at the beautiful Lac à la Pêche. Stop to have a dip in Parker Falls, a hidden gem.
- Go canoe camping and choose your route from our numerous suggestions. Stay at a single campsite or treat yourself to a multi-day expedition on different lakes linked by portages.
Pro tip: Enjoy a backcountry lakeside expedition without the portage! Row-and-go canoes are offered at Lac à la Pêche and Lac du Caribou. Equipment rental is also available on the shore of Édouard and Wapizagonke Lakes.
Location: Lachine Canal National Historic Site
Enjoy a day of outdoor activities in the heart of Montreal as you explore the waters of Lachine Canal, a waterway where past and present meet.
Don’t miss
- New to paddling? Parks Canada certified instructors will teach you the basics of canoeing or kayaking. Book a free Learn-to paddle session at Hangar 1825 or Peel Basin.
Pro tip: Rent a watercraft at the outfitters located near the Atwater Footpath and get your seasonal boat sticker for your non-motorized watercraft before your next outing.
Ontario
Location: Trent–Severn Waterway National Historic Site
With 386 km to explore, plenty of historic adventures await! Discover this world-class water system with our best paddling routes with everything from wetlands to cottage country to Canadian Shield.
Don’t miss
- Elevate your experience atop the Peterborough Lift Lock, or get carried away on the Big Chute Marine Railway.
- Why not spend the night at one of the historic locks in the comfort of a teardrop-shaped Ôasis, oTENTik or rustic cabin.
Pro tip: Check out all 42 lockstations, including a map and virtual tour of the entire waterway.
Location: Rideau Canal National Historic Site
Paddle over 200 km on an iconic route in a UNESCO World Heritage Site! After a day of fun, camp at any of the 24 historic lockstations on a first-come first-served basis.
Don’t miss
- Tuck in at Upper Beveridges in an oTENTik that comes with a canoe and safety gear. Take a trip up the Tay Canal in the morning into some gorgeous ecosystems or keep going all the way to the nearby town of Perth for lunch, then return.
- Go through the flight locks at Jones Falls then stay the night at a historic accommodation in Davis or Newboro.
Pro tip: Book a Learn-to paddle activity. Parks Canada certified instructors will teach you the basics of canoeing or kayaking.
Location: Thousand Islands National Park
Leave the daily grind behind. You will be fascinated at every turn by sunken ships, historic castles and a landscape steeped in First Nations history.
Don’t miss
- Venture out in a kayak to visit picturesque granite islands and admire iconic windswept pine trees. You might even be lucky enough to get a glimpse of a soaring bald eagle or a family of turtles basking on a rock. As the sun sets, return to shore refreshed, recharged and full of stories to share.
Pro tip: Treat yourself to a kayak journey without all the fuss with the help of experienced guides taking care of every detail, from introductory lessons to en-route snacks.
Location: Rouge National Urban Park
Explore one paddle at a time in an urban park in Toronto!
Don’t miss
- Paddle around the Rouge Marsh and head north up the Rouge River to pass through some of the park’s most stunning wetlands. The marsh is large, so remember to keep your point of entry in mind.
- Love Lake Ontario? Paddling along Rouge Beach in calm weather is also top notch! Parking in the area is limited.
Pro tip: Remember to clean, drain and dry your watercraft and water-related gear before entering any river, lake or stream to prevent the spread of invasive species.
Location: Pukaskwa National Park
Treat yourself to a paddling experience comparable to being in the ocean and feel the classic Ontario wilderness in Pukaskwa.
Don’t miss
- Enjoy pristine backcountry campsites, beautiful sandy beaches, towering shorelines and awe-inspiring views. Don’t know where to start? Check out these suggested paddling routes for inspiration.
Pro tip: Make sure you have the technical knowledge and skill to ensure your trip goes smoothly.
Location: Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area
Paddling in a sea kayak this freshwater sea is the adventure of a lifetime. Lake Superior is not just any lake and you should prepare for conditions similar to those in ocean environments.
Don’t miss
- De-stress with a sheltered paddle around the islands of Rossport.
- Challenge yourself with a multi-day guided expedition along the coast. Guides will show you the safest and most spectacular routes along bays, coves, islands and wetlands.
Pro tip: For a safer trip filled with adventure and great memories, it is recommended that paddlers of all skill levels seek an experienced guide.
Manitoba
Location: Riding Mountain National Park
Discover a world of boreal beauty from the water.
Don’t miss
- Paddle the clearest waters of the southern Prairies! Find out for yourself how Clear Lake lives up to its name and you’ll see why it’s a favourite for boaters. With its sandy beaches and crystal clear waters… pure happiness awaits.
- No watercraft? No problem! Rent kayaks, paddle boards and pedal boats at the surrounding local businesses.
Pro tip: Help Parks Canada keep Clear Lake healthy and make sure to stop by Boat Cove for a mandatory aquatic invasive species inspection, free of charge!
Saskatchewan
Location: Prince Albert National Park
Whether you are an experienced or a novice paddler, the lakes and rivers of the park offer amazing adventures that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Don’t miss
- Head to Trippes Beach, a great launching point for a short visit to King Island on Waskesiu Lake. End the day with a picnic on the beach and make use of the fire pits and tables there.
- The Bagwa canoe route is one of the most user-friendly ways to paddle in the park. Treat yourself to a canoe camping adventure and discover the multiple lakes, river, channel, and even rail portage that await.
Pro tip: Find out where to rent a watercraft by contacting the Waskesiu Chamber of Commerce.
Alberta
Location: Elk Island National Park
See Elk Island National Park like never before!
Don’t miss
- Cruise around one of the many islands in Astotin Lake and pause at Beaver Bay to enjoy your picnic lunch. Astotin Lake is the perfect place for a family canoe trip.
Pro tip: Rent a canoe, kayak or paddle board at the Astotin Lake recreation area.
British Columbia
Location: Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve, and Haida Heritage Site
Discover one of the best sea kayaking destinations in the world! Explore over 800 islands and islets and experience ancient Haida villages.
Don’t miss
- Soak in natural thermal pools at Hotspring Island or wildlife watch in the Burnaby Narrows. You may even encounter many of the 20 species of whales and dolphins frequently seen in these waters.
Pro tip: Ensure that you have the skills necessary for your Gwaii Haanas adventure, whether you travel independently or with a tour operator.
Location: Gulf Islands National Park Reserve
Venture to one of the most beautiful and accessible archipelagos in the world! Gulfs islands offer amazing paddling opportunities and chances to see sea lions, otters, seals, killer whales, and bald eagles.
Don’t miss
- Embark on a multi-day paddle trip with this staff favourite, and discover amazing hidden gems. Launch from Fulford Harbour on Saltspring and paddle around Russell and Portland Islands. Listen to songbirds and watch the sunset at the gorgeous Arbutus Point Campground.
Pro tip: Embark on a guided excursion from one of the many local tour operators and benefit from their expertise and knowledge.
Yukon
Location: Kluane National Park and Reserve
Explore Kluane, known for its wilderness recreation.
Don’t miss
- Paddle down the beautiful Alsek River, fed by glacial meltwaters from the second highest coastal mountain range in the world. The Alsek flows through remote country and take-out points are all air access only.
- Are you an experienced paddler who loves packrafting? You will be spoiled for choice! Share your pictures and trip information with us at: pc.kluaneinfo.pc@canada.ca. We’re always learning and adding new information to our trip planning material.
Pro tip: The dangers and risks associated with whitewater and remote wilderness are plentiful. Prepare accordingly and contact the Kluane Parks Office for updated information about permits and registration.
Location: Ivvavik National Park
Observe the migration of caribou herds, fish for Arctic Grayling or explore Engigstciak – a dramatic peak rising from the coastal plain that hunters have used to scan the horizon for more than 9,000 years.
Don’t miss
- Experienced paddlers, rafting the Firth River is a trip to add to your bucket list! These 1-2 week trips typically begin at Margaret Lake. From there, float along into a succession of canyons – eventually ending at Nunaluk Spit, on the Arctic Ocean’s coastline.
Pro tip: Get involved in conservation! Raft down the river with Canadian River Expeditions’ guides and Parks Canada scientists.
Northwest Territories
Location: Nahanni National Park Reserve
Combine challenging whitewater with cultural experiences on the South Nahanni River.
Don’t miss
- Prepare your paddles! Your 10 to 14 day trip starts from Gahnįhthah Mįe (Rabbitkettle Lake) and includes a portage at Náįlįcho. You’ll even enter a series of Class II and III rapids (depending on water levels), and meander a legendary Canadian Heritage River. Paddle by some of the deepest canyons in Canada and hear the thunderous Náįlįcho (Virginia Falls) for an experience like no other.
Pro tip: In Náįlįcho and Gahnįhthah Mįe, share your experience with park guides during a guided hike or around a campfire.
Location: Nááts'įhch'oh National Park Reserve
Treat yourself to a whitewater adventure on the traditional homelands of the Sahtu Dene and Métis and Dehcho First Nations.
Don’t miss
- The Nááts’įhch’oh Triple Header is the ultimate whitewater adventure for skilled paddlers. Warm up on the scenic Pííp’enéh łéetóó Deé (Broken Skull River) before tackling the famed Rock Gardens stretch of Tehjeh Deé (South Nahanni River) and the thrilling Łáhtanįlį Deé (Little Nahanni River). Complete all three rivers to earn your Triple Header badge! Guided trips available.
- Did someone say packrafting? Try one of the many intermediate or advanced level courses available.
Pro tip: Remember you are responsible for your own safety.
Location: Aulavik National Park
Paddle the Thomsen River which runs through Aulavik National Park for 160 kilometres. This slow flowing river runs north and has no rapids or obstructions.
Don’t miss
- Reward yourself with a multi week paddling journey through rich arctic tundra, full of wildlife like muskoxen, hundreds of species of wild-flowers and ancient archaeological sites.
Pro tip: Canoes are available for rent from outfitters in Inuvik.
Paddling types
Flatwater paddling (canoe/kayak)
Paddle on lakes, swamps or rivers without rapids or strong currents in nature or the city. Keep in mind that wind can seriously affect ease of travel and wave action.
Whitewater paddling
Travel down a river with rapids or strong currents in a canoe or kayak designed for whitewater.
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)
Balance on a large board designed to paddle in a kneeling or standing position on calm waters without rapids or strong currents.
Sea kayaking
Explore the ocean, the St. Lawrence River or huge lakes in a long and narrow kayak. This is a completely different activity from paddling in rivers or small lakes, often impacted by tides, swell, significant wave actions, and the currents associated with those phenomena.
Whitewater rafting
Hop into an inflatable raft and float down rivers with fast-flowing rapids and strong currents.
Packrafting
Discover the backcountry on the quest for the best wild rivers! Simply stash your packraft in your backpack and let your adventure begin.
Canoe camping/kayak camping
Treat yourself to a multi-day canoeing or kayaking trip where you carry your camping gear and food to stay overnight in the backcountry.
Guided paddling
Unsure about travelling solo? Paddle with an experienced guide who will show you the ropes.
- Date modified :