Epic Paddling Destinations in Northeastern Ontario

Do you hear that? It's the wind tousling the branches of an old pine, and the paddle breaking through calm water. It's a legendary paddling adventure, and it's in Northeastern Ontario.

Imagine, paddling ancient canoe routes the Anishinaabekwe and French Voyageurs did so long ago. Discover yourself on crystal clear waters, surrounded by wilderness in it's purest form. You'll make memories to last a lifetime, reaching locations only accessible to the adventurous at heart.

Find a list of epic Northeastern Ontario's paddling destinations below:

Temagami


Local Outfitter:Temagami Outfitting Company
Provincial Park Nearby:Finlayson Point Provincial Park, Lady Evelyn - Smoothwater Provincial Park, Obabika Lake Provincial Park, Solace Provincial Park
Where to Stay:Full Listing
What to Expect: Over 1200 islands, and red/white pine old-growth forest. The water is deep, and winding. There are many impromptu campsites scattered along shorelines.

Killarney


Local Outfitter:Killarney Outfitters
Provincial Park Nearby: Killarney Provincial Park
Where to Stay:Killarney Mountain Lodge
What to Expect: White granite rock faces, wispy pines and crystal blue waters. The open water of Georgian Bay can be unpredictable, so bring overnight gear just in case. Philip Edward Island is a popular stop and embodies the Georgian Bay coast.

Abitibi River


Local Outfitter:Howling Wolf Expeditions
Provincial Park Nearby:Renee Brunelle Provincial Park, Little Abitibi Provincial Park (unorganized)
Where to Stay:Best Western Swan Castle Inn
What to Expect: Expect little traffic, and fluctuating water levels due to hydro dams further up river. New Post Falls is a popular destination along the river.

Mattagami River


Local Outfitter:D&L Docks & Equipment, Timmins Adventure Tours
Provincial Park Nearby:Kettle Lakes Provincial Park
Where to Stay: Wild Exodus
What to Expect: Old-growth boreal forest, and scenic shorelines perfect for camping. There are minimal portages, and the river winds through many small towns.

French River


Local Outfitter:Hartley Bay Marina
Provincial Park Nearby:French River Provincial Park
Where to Stay:Crane's Lochaven Lodge, Full Listing
What to Expect: It offers miles of twisting shoreline, picturesque islands and hidden back bays steeped in a rich voyageur history.

Mattawa River

Local Outfitter: Algonquin North Outfitting
Provincial Park Nearby: Samuel De Champlain Provincial Park
Where to Stay: Canadian Ecology Centre
What to Expect: The Mattawa River is long, and winding. Follow an original voyageur route, from North Bay to Mattawa, and experience all the region has to offer. 

About Jamie McIntyre

Hey! I'm a outdoors enthusiast with a passion for travel in Northeastern Ontario. Check out my articles for ideas on where to travel. 

Recommended Articles

The Seven's Best Hikes, Biking Trails and Lakes

Scenic vistas, white pine, and waterfalls await!

7 Best Spots to Check Out in The Seven

From Killarney to Kirkland Lake, Mattawa to Manitoulin, here are all the best things to see and do in Northeastern Ontario.

No Hustle

These budget-friendly spots in The Seven offer affordable (and sometimes free) fun for everyone.

Bring Your Fam!

7 family-friendly places to explore in The Seven.

Time to Unwind: 6 Spa Havens to Discover In The Seven

Check out these next-level ways to pamper yourself on your Northeastern Ontario getaway

5 Amazing Places to SUP in Northeastern Ontario

From Stormy Lake to Marathon Beach, there's an incredible SUP adventure waiting for you here.

5 Amazing Bike Rides to Discover

Varied terrain, quiet roads, and flowy trails—The Seven is calling.

Northern Lights in Northeastern Ontario

5 great spots in The Seven to find the Aurora Borealis.

Northeastern Ontario's Best Pride Festivals

Get ready to celebrate inclusivity, diversity, and community in these vibrant Canadian areas.

Fish for one of the World's Rarest Species of Trout

Found only in 12 remote Ontario lakes–and nowhere else in the world–the aurora trout is a special fish.

An Insider's Guide to Manitoulin Island

12 communities, sights, hikes and experiences that most first-time visitors miss!

Search Northeastern Ontario