In Canada, North America, you will find forests, rivers, fresh water lakes, wildlife, flora and an abundance of nature. Canoeing is one of the best ways to see Canada, and provides a great opportunity to bond with your fellow canoeists. Paddling though national parks, exploring parts accessible only by canoe or kayak, immersed in the sights, sounds and smells of this beautiful country, how can you fail to revel in the shared experience, a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life?
Canoeing adventures: The only true way to see Canada
Quetico Provincial Park, northwest Ontario
Quetico Provincial Park in northwest Ontario stretches for more than a million acres and has around 2,000 lakes. Lovers of the outdoors can hike through virgin pine forests, try their hand at fishing, and explore some areas that are only accessible by canoe. For the experienced canoeist, Quetico’s Hunters Island loop is approximately 128 miles; the route around the proverbial island includes portaging (carrying your canoe – and supplies), rapids and waterfalls. It takes between a week and three weeks to explore properly, and is an experience of a lifetime.
Peninsula Lake, Muskoka
As for where to stay in Ontario, Hidden Valley Resort in Huntsville, Ontario, in the Muskoka region, is a family-friendly option. Muskoka has a vast district of more than 1,600 lakes, with waterfalls, pine forests and sheer granite cliffs. The Resort itself has 93 guest accommodations, spread along the lakeshore, each with a view of Peninsula Lake, or a ski-hill view. The Resort has an indoor pool, sauna, tennis courts and a fitness facility. Take part in outdoor activities, including skiing, fishing, hiking, tennis, basketball or volleyball, or try your hand at some water sports on the lakes. Visit the Outdoor Traveler’s site for more information.
French River, Central Ontario
French River is one of the best places to canoe with the family. The river runs from Lake Nipissing to Georgian Bay, and the 68 miles offers countless route possibilities. Traverse gorges, rapids and interconnected lakes, and paddle the routes taken years ago by the indigenous people, French explorers, fur traders, and missionaries.
Canada is the perfect destination for the outdoor explorer, and canoeing is the ideal way to explore. It is a healthy, back to basics experience that will provide you with an opportunity to relax and get to know your companions, and provide an unforgettable experience of living with nature.