Complete Guide to Canoe Tripping in Algonquin Park
Algonquin Park is just a few hours’ drive from Ontario’s largest urban centers, yet this celebrated canoe tripping destination feels worlds away. Created in 1893, Ontario’s most well-loved park spans 7,635 square kilometres. Whether you’re planning a day trip or striking out for a multiday adventure, canoeing in Algonquin Park is the definitive way to experience this iconic destination.
Algonquin Park canoe rentals are available at popular backcountry access points to make your journey from parking lot to paddling route quick and easy. Shuttle service, camping equipment rental and full outfitting packages for self-guided canoe trips are also available.
Paddle around a misty lake at dawn, or venture deep into the Park’s interior by paddle and portage. The longer your Algonquin canoe camping trip, and the more portages you cross, the fewer other park visitors you’ll see.
First time paddling a canoe? Not to worry—many of the best Algonquin Park canoe tours are offered as guided canoe trips by experienced outfitters.
With over 2,000 kilometres of canoe routes and 1,900 canoe camping sites traversing a vast landscape of maple hills, rocky ridges, spruce bogs, and thousands of spectacular lakes, ponds and streams, the paddling possibilities in Algonquin Park are almost infinite. Take the guesswork out of planning—read on to discover the best canoe routes Algonquin Park has to offer paddlers of every ability.
Algonquin canoe routes
Diverse scenery, abundant wildlife and superb camping make Algonquin Park a canoe tripper’s paradise. Whether you have a single day or a whole week, you haven’t seen Algonquin until you’ve paddled these must-do canoe routes.
Rock Lake to Whitney – 1 day
Visit two of Algonquin Park’s most stunning lakes on this easy day trip in the Park’s quieter east end. This linear route ends at Algonquin access point #13 in the village of Whitney, so your day begins with a vehicle shuttle to Rock Lake (access point #9) to start your trip. Get an early start—this route requires a full day and rewards with some of the Park’s finest scenery. Don’t miss canoeing beneath the steep cliffs of Rock Lake, listening as Echo Bay returns your best loon call, and lingering on the sun-warmed rock points of Galeairy Lake. Even better, there’s only one short portage (100 metres), so you don’t have to worry about packing light.
Barron Canyon – 1 day
For a brief period after the end of the last ice age, the Barron River carried the entire outflow from Lake Agassiz (the precursor of today's Great Lakes) and a spectacular canyon was cut by this tremendous flow of water. This beginner-friendly day trip on the Park’s east side leaves from Squirrel Rapids access point, just past the Sand Lake Gate, and travels up the dark waters of the Barron River into the canyon.
As you paddle upstream, sheer cliffs rise from the river until you find yourself embraced by 100-metre-high canyon walls. Towering white pines on the gorge’s rim appear like toy trees from this vantage point. Retrace your paddle strokes back to your vehicle, then hike the easy 1.5-kilometre Barron Canyon Trail to catch an equally breathtaking view from the top.
Shall Lake to Booth Lake – 2 days
Travelling up the Opeongo River through a series of small lakes and short portages, this easy overnight canoe trip reaches scenic Booth Lake. The lake features an excellent beach area on its eastern shore, and 18 west-facing campsites where you can settle in to watch the sunset. Wake up early or head out after dinner to paddle up McCarthy Creek for prime moose-viewing.
This two-day Algonquin Park canoe trip departs from and returns to Shall Lake access point (#17) on the Park’s east side, making it a quieter option than routes beginning on the Park’s Highway 60 corridor. The simple logistics and sheltered waterways make this a great route if you’re looking to solo canoe trip Algonquin Park.
Tim River to Rosebary Lake – 2 days
The Rosebary Lake canoe route is an easy two-day trip on Algonquin Park’s west side with a beautifully unspoiled lake as its reward. After crossing Tim Lake, enjoy a relaxing paddle down the meandering Tim River with one easy portage (120 metres) around a set of falls. The hills surrounding Rosebary Lake comprise a Nature Reserve zone within the Park, meaning these mature hardwood forests have a special natural significance to the region and are protected from logging. This lake makes for a particularly stunning Algonquin fall canoe trip destination.
Rosebary’s six well-spaced campsites include sand beaches and one of the oldest known Indigenous campsites in Algonquin Park. This two-day canoe trip begins at the Tim River access point (#2) and returns the same way.
Wendigo Lake to Radiant Lake – 3 days
The three-day, out-and-back route from the Wendigo Lake access point (#25) to Radiant Lake is one of the best quick and easy trips in Northern Algonquin Park. Follow a series of small lakes and portages south to join the scenic North River, where moose sightings are almost guaranteed in early summer. Continue into captivating Radiant Lake and settle into one of the stunning sandy beachfront campsites scattered around the shoreline of this shallow lake. Hang a hammock, swim in the golden waters and explore Radiant Lake’s historic sites before returning the way you came.
Canoe Lake to Burnt Island Lake – 3 days
Canoe Lake has served as the cultural heart of Algonquin since the Park’s inception in 1893. Paddlers on this easy three-day loop can discover a wealth of fascinating history—from ruins of a century-old town site, to possibly the most debated gravesite in Canada. In 1917, celebrated landscape artist and Algonquin Park guide, Tom Thomson, died under mysterious circumstances while paddling on Canoe Lake. (Learn more in our article: Go on a Self-Guided Tom Thomson Tour in Algonquin Park.)
Continuing north, this route travels through Teepee and Littledoe lakes to Tom Thomson Lake, where 18 scenic campsites make for an ideal first night’s pitch. The second day of this loop involves eight short portages over hilly terrain to reach Burnt Island Lake. From here, it’s an easy paddle through the Joe lakes back to Canoe Lake.
Smoke Lake to Big Porcupine Lake – 3 days
For a scenic base camp canoe route with a taste of Algonquin Park’s more challenging portage trails, try this three-day “lollipop loop” from Smoke Lake. Paddle south through Smoke and Ragged lakes before tackling the Devil’s Staircase, a steep 590-metre portage that climbs to Big Porcupine Lake and a smattering of secluded campsites. I like to base camp here for two nights, and on my second day pack a picnic lunch and make a loop through Little Coon, McGarvey and Bonnechere lakes. There’s plenty of beautiful scenery and several more shoulder-burning portages—but at least you’ll be travelling light.
Rock Lake to Lake Louisa – 3 days
This three-day loop makes for an action-packed weekend itinerary, although solitude-seekers should plan to visit this popular area midweek or in the fall. Three lengthy portages make this a challenging route for novice paddlers. Camp on Welcome or Harry lakes your first night, then snag a gorgeous rock point or island campsite on Lake Louisa for your last night out. Wake up refreshed to tackle the 3,000-metre portage back to Rock Lake (access point #9).
Kawawaymog Lake to Kioshkokwi Lake – 4 days
This four-day tour through the Park’s northwest corner is on my shortlist for most scenic canoe trip in Algonquin. This area of the Park is famous for its rolling hills, great trout fishing and beautiful lakes. Departing from Kawawaymog Lake (access point #1), travel west to east through large lakes and narrow, wildlife-filled rivers with only a couple very manageable portages each day. Rock point campsites on North Tea, Manitou and Kioshkokwi lakes feature outstanding swimming and spectacular sunsets.
Contact Voyageur Quest or Northern Wilderness Outfitters for canoe rental, outfitting and a return shuttle from your finish at Kiosk (access point #29).
Petawawa River – 4 days
Perhaps the best-known—and certainly the most thrilling—river in Algonquin Park, the Petawawa travels from one side of the Park to the other, gathering volume and taking on a different character with every kilometre. From its marshy and meandering beginnings in the west to the rushing rapids of the east, the “Pet” is a dynamic and breathtaking river for intermediate river paddlers.
Most experienced whitewater canoe trippers focus on the exciting class I-III rapids between Lake Travers (access point #23) and McManus Lake (access point #21). This section of the Petawawa can be run in as little as three days, but I recommend taking at least four days to savour the scenic beauty, history and deeply wild feel of this untamed river. Check the water level before your trip; at flows below 15 cubic metres/second many of the rapids become shallow rock gardens.
Lake Opeongo–Big Trout Lake Loop – 5 days
If you’re looking for the best lake to canoe in Algonquin Park, you can take your pick on this rewarding five-day route. Looping off the North Arm of Lake Opeongo, this moderate canoe trip visits some of Algonquin Park’s most scenic large lakes and is a great choice for intermediate canoe trippers who enjoy a stout paddle between portages. The route can be completed in five days if you take a Lake Opeongo water taxi (you can book with either Algonquin Outfitters or Opeongo Outfitters) to the Proulx Lake portage, eliminating a substantial paddle up the Park’s largest lake on your first day.
Sandy beaches, old-growth white pine and a stunning cliff-top overlook await campers on Big Crow Lake. From here, you’ll spend the next four days looping back to Opeongo through Hogan Lake, Lake La Muir, Big Trout Lake, Merchant Lake and Happy Isle Lake. En route, expect nearly 11 kilometres of demanding portages (packing for a single-carry is strongly advised), abundant moose-spotting opportunities and a splendid sense of isolation.
Hogan Lake Loop – 5 days
For a lightly travelled alternative route into the wilderness waters of Hogan Lake, try this scenic five-day lollipop loop on the north side of Algonquin Park. Departing from the Brent access point (#27) on Cedar Lake, cross this large lake, then paddle and portage up the gorgeous Petawawa River. You’ll need to navigate the longest portage of the route—2,345 metres around Stacks Rapids—twice (once on the way in, and again on your way out), but trust me when I say the scenery is worth the effort. There are two spectacular waterfalls on this section of the Pet that you’ll also get to enjoy twice.
The loop portion of this route begins at Catfish Lake and circles through the lovely island campsites of Burntroot Lake, into Lake La Muir and finally Hogan Lake, where peregrine falcons nest on the eastern cliff face. Loop back to Catfish Lake across a series of portages, then retrace your route down the Petawawa River to Cedar Lake.
Algonquin guided canoe trips
Experience the beauty and tranquility of the Park’s wild interior on guided Algonquin Park canoe trips with esteemed local outfitters. Learn how to canoe trip Algonquin Park—developing your paddling, portaging and wilderness camping skills while travelling some of Algonquin’s most spectacular backcountry canoe routes.
Algonquin Outfitters
With over six decades of experience and three locations serving the Highway 60 corridor of Algonquin Park, Algonquin Outfitters offers a range of exciting day trips and custom guided overnight canoe trips. Learn about iconic Canadian landscape artists Tom Thomson and the Group of Seven on a guided Canoe Lake day trip, or experience the beauty of an Algonquin fall canoe trip on a guided autumn colours paddle. Their guided Hailstorm Creek adventure is a must for nature lovers, combining a water taxi ride on Lake Opeongo with a half-day canoe exploration of this wildlife-filled wetland. In June, the outfitter partners with professional nature photographer, Helen Grose, to offer a full-day Cameras & Canoes photography workshop.
Voyageur Quest
From their base on Kawawaymog Lake, Voyageur Quest guided canoe trips travel through the quieter northern reaches of the Park, traversing island-studded lakes and meandering rivers. Enjoy backcountry gourmet meals on guided trips ranging from three to 13 days. For an easy introduction to paddling in the Park, join a three-day Classic Canoe Trip; or capture unforgettable images on their three-day Algonquin Park Moose Photography Safari. The five-day “One-Way” and seven-day “Best of the Northwest” guided canoe trips travel west to east across the top of the Park. For the ultimate guided Algonquin Park canoe adventure, tackle the breathtaking rapids of the Petawawa River (seven days) or add another week on the water and canoe across Algonquin Park in 13 days.
Algonquin Bound
Join a guided canoe day trip with Algonquin Bound and choose to explore from one of their three locations: start at Canoe Lake or Smoke Lake near the Park’s West Gate, tour the quieter lakes and rivers around Shall Lake near the East Gate, or visit the spectacular Barron Canyon on Algonquin Park’s east side. Two-, three-, four- and five-day guided trips are also available.
The Portage Outpost
Led by the knowledgeable guides at The Portage Outpost near the Park’s West Gate, the Oxtongue River guided day trip takes a full day to paddle the winding meanders and scenic rapids of this historic river. You’ll cover 20 kilometres with a few short portages along the way. Visit a trapper’s cabin, spot beavers and moose, and stop for a picnic lunch where you can swim below rushing rapids.
Black Feather
Eager to experience the famed whitewater of Algonquin’s Petawawa River, but short on rapid-running skills? Join Black Feather for a guided four- or five-day whitewater adventure down the Petawawa, with departures in July, August and September.
Wilderness Adventures
Learn how to canoe trip Algonquin Park with the Paddle Canada-certified instructors and guides at Wilderness Adventures. Gain tandem paddling and canoe camping skills on a three-day or six-day guided canoe trip, venturing into the west side of the Park from Magnetawan Lake or exploring the eastern Park via High Falls Lake and the spectacular Barron Canyon.
Algonquin Adventure Tours
The experienced guides at Algonquin Adventure Tours are passionate about making your wildlife-viewing dreams come true; their three-day canoe trip safari boasts an 85-percent success rate for spotting Algonquin Park moose, beaver and loons. Beginning at the Canoe Lake access point, they also offer a guided canoe day trip exploring the historic heart of Algonquin Park.
Call of the Wild
From May to September, Call of the Wild runs guided three- to seven-day Algonquin Park canoe trips with weekly departures. You’ll launch from Rock Lake and explore the scenic lakes and creeks of the Park’s southeast corner. Combine your backcountry canoe trip with an optional stay at Algonquin Eco-Lodge and enjoy activities like hiking and horseback riding.
MHO Adventures
Embark on an unforgettable journey down the mighty rapids of the Petawawa River with the experienced river guides at MHO Adventures. This five-day whitewater trip begins at Lake Travers and descends to the Park’s eastern boundary at McManus Lake.
Algonquin canoe routes maps
Every canoe tripper wants to experience the best of the Park’s iconic waterways, but Algonquin’s sprawling geography makes it challenging to know where to start. If you’re wondering how to see Algonquin Park by canoe, a detailed map is essential for route planning and navigation during your trip.
Purchase Algonquin Park canoe route maps from the Algonquin Park Visitor Center in-person or online from the Friends of Algonquin Park map store. You can also buy Algonquin Park maps from many Park outfitters, an especially convenient option if you’re already renting canoes or equipment from these outfitters.
Official Algonquin Park Canoe Routes Map
The official Algonquin Park Canoe Routes Map illustrates canoe routes, campsites, portages, lakes, access points and more. This official map receives annual updates by Park staff working in Algonquin's backcountry who are responsible for maintaining the canoe routes network, making it indispensable for Park visitors planning an interior canoe trip.
The official paper map is available from the Friends of Algonquin Park, with 100 percent of proceeds supporting Algonquin Park.
Maps by Jeff - Algonquin Park Maps
A lifelong paddler-turned-mapmaking entrepreneur, Jeff McMurtrie parlayed over 600 days exploring and mapping Ontario’s canoe routes into a collection of Park maps that have become the gold standard for Algonquin canoe trippers. Maps by Jeff Algonquin Park series goes beyond need-to-know details like access points and campsites—adding helpful features like colour-coded canoe routes to show level of difficulty, travel times for canoe routes and portages, fish species for each lake, and tons of natural and historical hidden gems.
Algonquin Park is a big place, so the indestructible, waterproof Maps by Jeff are divided into five sections to give trippers plenty of detail. Digital formats are included with all printed maps; you can purchase the complete set (or individual maps) at Maps by Jeff.
The Adventure Map – Algonquin Park Series
If you’re looking for an Algonquin backcountry map with terrific detail of a specific area of the Park, Chrismar’s Adventure Map Algonquin Series is a great choice. Each of the seven Algonquin Park Series waterproof maps features campsites, portages, access points, hiking trails, historic sites and other attractions. The back side of each map is perfect for campfire reading with text, photos and graphics describing the area's natural and human history, route suggestions, safety tips and more. You can purchase a complete map bundle (or individual maps) directly from Chrismar.
Canoe trip planning guides
The backcountry of Algonquin Park doesn’t really have defined canoe routes—instead, there is a vast, interconnected canoe route network so you can plan an almost infinite number of possible trips. Planning an enjoyable trip for your group starts with a good Algonquin Park canoe trip planning guide.
A Paddler’s Guide to Algonquin Park by Kevin Callan
For a fantastic introduction to Algonquin Park’s paddling possibilities, pick up a copy of beloved guidebook author Kevin Callan’s definitive Paddler’s Guide to Algonquin Park. Whether you’re looking for the best place to canoe in Algonquin Park, or for advice on how to plan an Algonquin canoe trip, this guidebook has everything you need to get started. Includes descriptions of 35 suggested routes with maps.
Algonquin Park Whitewater Guides
For experienced canoe trippers planning a downriver journey on one of Algonquin Park’s whitewater rivers, these spiral-bound guidebooks are indispensable. Detailed maps outline the route, rapids, portages and river conditions. The Petawawa River Whitewater Guide and Madawaska Opeongo Whitewater Guide are available from the Friends of Algonquin Park.
Algonquin canoe rentals and canoe outfitters
Whether you are planning your first visit to Algonquin Park, or you are an experienced tripper looking to rent an ultralight canoe for an ambitious backcountry adventure, these outfitters simplify logistics and offer affordable canoe rentals, shuttles and complete outfitting for all trip types.
Algonquin Outfitters
From featherweight Kevlar canoe rentals to a full line of camping gear for hire, Algonquin Outfitters has everything you need to head out into the Park for two days or two weeks. Established in 1961, Algonquin Outfitters also offers guided day trips and overnight canoe trips in Algonquin Park, and their local experts can help you plan your own canoe trip from start to finish. When you’ve decided on a destination for your paddling adventure, choose from one of Algonquin Outfitters’ six convenient rental locations: Oxtongue Lake, Canoe Lake, Lake Opeongo, Brent (Cedar Lake), Huntsville or Haliburton.
Algonquin Bound
With three convenient locations in Dwight, Madawaska and Barron Canyon, Algonquin Bound offers contactless canoe, kayak and gear rentals for quick, easy pickup. Algonquin Bound also specializes in access point and campsite delivery/pickup to over 30 locations throughout Algonquin Park, as well as a vehicle shuttle service to every access point in the Park for those planning a one-way trip. New to Algonquin Park? Algonquin Bound’s introductory course in canoeing and interior camping is designed to enable those who have little or no experience with canoe tripping to enjoy a safer, more enjoyable adventure in the Park.
The Portage Outpost
With 50 years of Algonquin Park outfitting experience, family owned and operated The Portage Outpost is conveniently located on Highway 60 near the Park’s West Gate. Their knowledge of the Park makes planning your trip a breeze. The Portage Outpost offers canoe and camping equipment rentals, complete outfitting packages including backcountry meals and skills review, and canoe rental delivery along the Highway 60 corridor, as well as daily guided tours on the Oxtongue River.
Voyageur Quest Outfitting
If you are looking to explore the large, lightly travelled lakes of the Park’s north side, Voyageur Quest Outfitting makes for an easy, full-service departure point. Situated on Kawawaymog Lake at Algonquin access point #1, this Algonquin Park canoe trip outfitter offers canoe rentals, shuttle service, meals and accommodation, and guided canoe trips led by Algonquin wilderness guides and naturalists. First-time canoe trippers should ask about their Algonquin Starter Package. This quick, yet comprehensive, package includes trip planning guidance and an on-water lesson when you arrive.
Opeongo Outfitters
This third-generation Algonquin Park canoe outfitter has been helping visitors experience the Park since 1936. Based near the East Gate on Highway 60, Opeongo Outfitters is a convenient rental location for those approaching Algonquin from the east, or for any trips beginning on the Park’s east side. They provide canoe rentals and sales, complete outfitting packages, canoe delivery to Park campgrounds and access points, shuttle service, and a campers’ store for last-minute essentials.
Algonquin Portage
Planning a canoe trip to the breathtaking Barron Canyon, mighty Petawawa River, High Falls or Grand Lake area on the east side of Algonquin Park? Algonquin Portage is located right on your route into the Park, just 15 minutes from Sand Lake Gate, making this comprehensive outfitting service a convenient one-stop shop. Services include canoe and equipment rental, trip planning, vehicle shuttles, canoe delivery/pickup, camping supplies, on-site hot showers and lodging.
Algonquin Basecamp
Situated in the village of Kearney, Algonquin Basecamp is a convenient one-stop shop for those beginning their canoe trip on the west side of Algonquin Park at access points #2, #3 or #4. This friendly, family-run outfitter provides canoe and kayak rentals, gear rentals, complete outfitting, canoe delivery, trip planning, shuttle service, a retail shop and accommodations for canoe trippers.
Canoe Algonquin
Just up the road in Kearney, Canoe Algonquin is another great option for those heading to Algonquin’s Tim River, Magnetawan Lake and Rain Lake access points. With over 35 years of experience outfitting Algonquin backcountry adventures, Canoe Algonquin offers competitive canoe and gear rental, trip planning assistance and rental delivery to the above access points.
Algonquin North Wilderness Outfitter
For trips into the quiet north side of Algonquin Park from Highway 17—including Kiosk and Cedar Lake/Brent access points—look to Algonquin North Wilderness Outfitter. Located between North Bay and Mattawa, they offer canoe and camping equipment rentals and packages, with free delivery to access point #29 (Kiosk).
Northern Wilderness Outfitters
Situated on Kawawaymog Lake at Algonquin access point #1, Northern Wilderness Outfitters is a convenient departure point for journeys into the northwest corner of Algonquin Park. Canoe rentals leave right from their dock, with on-site parking. Founded in 1968, Northern Wilderness Outfitters also offers equipment rentals, on-site camping and chalet accommodation.
Swift Canoe & Kayak
Known for their exceptionally light and beautifully crafted composite canoes and kayaks, Swift Canoe & Kayak offers canoe, kayak and paddleboard rentals from their South River location near Algonquin access point #1 (Kawawaymog Lake).
South Algonquin Roots RV Resort
Located on the shores of Benoir Lake, South Algonquin Roots RV Resort campground and cottage resort is the nearest outfitter to Algonquin Park’s Kingscote Lake (access point #15) and a perfect departure point for canoe trips to beautiful High Falls. Rent canoes here and paddle from their dock up the York River to High Falls. In addition to canoe and kayak rentals, they offer a full service camping and cottage resort experience.
Backcountry etiquette, reservations, and rules
Algonquin Park backcountry camping reservations are required for all canoe trips in the Park interior. Backcountry campsites in Algonquin Park can fill up quickly, especially during summer and fall colours season—advance reservations are strongly recommended.
Reservations can be made up to five months prior to your arrival date (for example, you can book February 1 if you plan to arrive July 1). Note that backcountry canoe campsite reservations are for a particular lake area or river section, not a specific campsite.
Once you have a sense of where you want to paddle, Ontario Parks’ online reservation for Algonquin backcountry campsites provides a basic Algonquin Park lakes map with campsite availability in the vicinity of each interior access point.
Before making your reservation, you’ll need to know your intended Algonquin Park access point and have a good idea of your route, including daily mileage that’s reasonable for your group. Keep a backcountry canoe routes map handy while making your reservation, in case modifications must be made to your trip.
Campsite reservations for your backcountry trip can be booked online at.ontarioparks.com, or by calling 1-888-ONT-PARK (1-888-668-7275). Backcountry camping fees are charged nightly per person: $11 for each adult, $5 each for those under 18. A maximum of nine campers are allowed per backcountry campsite.
Plan to arrive at your campsite and allow time for setup during daylight hours. Nighttime travel is dangerous and should be avoided. Respect backcountry etiquette when travelling in the interior:
- Use only existing portages and campsites
- When loading and unloading at portages, be courteous and ensure your gear and boats are out of the way so others can access the portage
- Don’t alter campsites by digging trenches around your tent, moving fire rings, cutting trees for firewood or creating log structures.
Finally, remember that sound travels very easily and for long distances across water. Noise pollution disturbs wildlife and diminishes everyone’s wilderness experience. Be considerate and travel quietly—your chances of seeing wildlife will be much greater. Review more backcountry safety and etiquette here.
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