The Steel River
Ontario’s ultimate loop canoe route.
By Conor Mihell
Canoe and Camp on Your Own Private Lake
Esker Lakes Provincial Park contains 29 pristine lakes, many connected by portages, creating a peaceful canoe route—plus there are local outfitters nearby that offer exceptional services for self-guided adventures. #PaddleON
Esker Lakes Provincial Park is surrounded by Boreal Forest and offers plenty of bird-watching opportunities. Explore the dozens of kettle lakes, formed when glaciers retreated 10,000 years ago.
Find great backcountry paddling experiences at Ontario Parks.
For information on park fees and reservations, click here.
Recommended Articles
The Steel River
Ontario’s ultimate loop canoe route.
Ontario’s Blue-Water Lakes
So blue you won’t believe your eyes.
Temagami Canoe Trip Guide
Expert advice for paddling in paradise.
The Massasauga Provincial Park Guide
What to know to plan your paddling and backcountry camping trip.
Sun and Sand
Soak it up at the best Lake Huron beaches
Spanish River Canoe Trip
Everything you need to know to plan an adventure on this beginner-friendly whitewater river.
It's Time for a Paddle
Canoe and kayak rentals that are perfect for your next paddling adventure.
Paddling Laws
This is what you need to know about safety on the water in Ontario.
Ontario’s Moose Hotspots
Your best chance of seeing a moose is by paddle.
Algonquin Park Canoe Trip Guide
Learn how to plan a backcountry paddling adventure.
Philip Edward Island Camping Guide
The inside scoop on this Georgian Bay gem.
SUPreme Adventure
Best paddleboarding destinations for beginners.
French River Canoe Tripping
Everything you need to know to explore this historic and wild waterway.
Best Kayaking on Georgian Bay
Plan your next kayak trip.
Best Lakes for Paddling
Explore Ontario’s pristine waters.
Best Lazy Rivers in Ontario
Relax and let the current take you away.
Best Canoe Maps in Ontario
Find out where to get the best digital and hard-copy versions.
Missinaibi River Canoe Trip
Learn how to plan a canoe trip down this famed wilderness river.
Killarney Canoe Trips
Learn about the best canoe routes in this stunning Ontario park.
Quetico’s Best Canoe Routes
Expert advice for exploring Canada’s top canoeing paradise.