Paddling

This feature now available on our Backroad GPS Maps!

Whether you are looking for a place to beetle about the lake, explore the dramatic coast or take an extended trip into the Canadian backcountry, our Backroad Mapbooks are your source for canoeing in Canada. Not only do we list all of the parks and recreation areas that are popular with canoeists or kayakers, but we also have a separate Paddling section that includes popular lakes, canoe routes and even rivers that can be explored in a canoe.

On the maps you will see various canoe routes, ocean paddling opportunities and river routes clearly marked on the maps. From access points to portages and notable rapids we try to show it all. In addition to the maps, our writing notes the main features of the routes. So if you are new to an area or are looking for a unique backcountry canoe trip, then let Backroad Mapbooks be your guide.

What to look for

Line Style/Symbol on the maps

Look for these symbols on our maps to find the perfect paddling route.

Symbol in the writing

Look for this symbol in our refernece to see where you can paddle.

Write-up in Reference

Look for the paddling section in our books to find the most popular routes.

Vancouver Island BC: Broken Group Islands (Map 6/C2–7/A2, Inset 6)
Part of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, this group of about 100 islands in Barkley Sound between Ucluelet and Bamfield is an international destination for sea kayakers. A combination of protected inner waters, a riot of marine life, sea birds beyond number and a rugged, untamed beauty makes this area a paradise. Experienced kayakers can make the long, dangerous open water crossing from Toquart Bay near Ucluelet. The rest catch the Lady Rose passenger ferry (call 250-723-8313 for info). In March and April there is a chance to paddle with the gray whales as they make their annual migration. You will need a minimum of three days, preferably a week or more, to explore the 92 km (50 nmi) of paddling. Camp only in designated areas and be prepared for unpredictable weather, fog, strong tides and exposed outer islands.

Manitoba: Bloodvein River (Map 57/F4–56/B7)
The Bloodvein River is one of Manitoba's best known rivers and is frequently ranked as one of the best whitewater canoeing rivers in Canada. The Manitoba section alone sports 112 sets of rapids and falls, 51 of which need to be portaged. Along the way, the wild, remote river passes through quiet lakes and wild rice marshes. Anglers will find excellent fishing for pike, walleye, lake trout and sturgeon. Wildlife viewers will find all manner of animals, large and small. Folks with an anthropological or historical bent will find pictographs dating back hundreds of years and archaeological sites that date back thousands of years. The river is generally accessed by air or by water from Wallace Lake or Red Lake. And if the 306 km (190 miles) of paddling the river offers isn't enough, there are thousands of kilometres of rivers and lakes that can be stitched together through Manitoba and Ontario.

Cottage Country Ontario: Booth Lake Canoe Route (Map 46/C1–A1)
The Booth Lake Route is an easy two to three day out and back trip that involves a bit of river travel. From the access point at Algonquin Park's Shall Lake it is short paddle to Farm Lake where four interior sites are available. The trip continues west towards Kitty Lake, past the popular Kitty Lake Cabin, which is one of the oldest standing cabins in the park. (The cabin can be rented.) Across from the cabin, a short portage moves into Kitty Lake. At the west end of Kitty Lake, there is a portage around a small dam before entering Booth Lake. The river flow entering into the portage can be a bit tricky to navigate. However, a trip into Booth Lake is well worth the effort as it is truly a beautiful lake with 18 well-spaced campsites, excellent fishing and a lot of nearby places to explore. McCarthy Creek, in particular, is a great place for moose sightings. The return trip is much easier as it is all downstream. Permits can be picked up at the Shall Lake Access Point, while supplies can be found at Algonquin Bound Outfitters at the junction of Major Lake Road access road and Highway 60.

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