Canada Canoeing and Paddle Routes
EH Tourism - travel planning guide

B.C. Canoeing Adventures are located on the westcoast of Canada. It is the 3rd largest province and consists of ocean coastlines, lakes and an abundance of water activities. [ Link ]

Alberta Canoeing Adventures are located in a western Canadian prairie province which is home to the Rocky Mountain Range, Boreal Forest, chain of lakes and raging rivers. [ Link ]

Saskatchewan Canoeing Adventures are located in a central prairie province which is home to Boreal Forest, grasslands, wetlands, rivers and 10,000 lakes. [ Link ]

Yukon Canoeing Adventures are located in a wilderness environment with looming mountains, glaciers, rivers, connecting lakes and wildlife viewing opportunities. [ Link ]

NWT Canoeing Adventures are located in a wilderness environment at the doorway to the Arctic Circle. Home to waterfalls, lakes, raging rivers, Great Slave Lake and wildlife. [ Link ]

Canada canoeing is enjoyed by many who visit our lakes and rivers. Canoeing can be best enjoyed in every season in many areas of Canada depending on the weather. However, a Canada canoe adventure is best enjoyed from late spring to early fall.

Every province and territory in Canada enjoys a selection of canoe waterways ranging from very difficult to easy. There are numerous calm river waterways and lakes in Canada for easy canoe day trips. There are difficult paddle routes also - some with whitewater currents, floating debris and sinkholes. Some waterways connect together via lakes, rivers and portage routes forming long haul, overnight canoe routes with some hiking and wilderness camping.

Most of the Canada canoe destinations have boat launches for easy departures. The more remote canoe destinations have roof top boat launches located at the end of a rough gravel road or a hiking trail. Like any adventure in Canada it is important to know your route and prepare for all types of weather.

Self guided Canada canoe adventures require proper route research, good equipment, weather preparedness and paddle expertise - especially on difficult river routes and over night trips.

For the less experienced canoeist there are tour groups and guides operating in communities located on popular rivers, lakes and oceans. Tour groups provide, both, day and multi-day paddle adventures.

Canoe tours with interpretive guides provide knowledge, experience and history. Less accomplished canoeists are encouraged to book with a canoe group. On guided tours the operators provide the canoe equipment and lessons. For the over night paddle experience a tour company, will in many cases, provide tenting, accommodations, entertainment and meals.

Some Canada Canoeing Tips

- bring hat, sunglasses and sun screen.
- bring camera, video and binoculars.
- always wear a life jacket.
- pack water proof matches and lighter.
- have good hiking boots for portaging.
- always lock vehicle in parking lot while canoeing.
- plan meals for over night trips.
- hang backpacks when on overnight trips to avoid attracting bears.
- know your route and plan your route based on your fitness level.
- dress in layers as weather changes quickly out on the water.
- check weather prior to canoeing.
- learn the various types of canoe strokes prior to trip.
- learn some tie knots prior to canoeing.
- pack a waterproof flashlight.
- do not litter on the water.