These suggested itineraries and routes are designed to help you plan your next paddling trip into northeast Algonquin Park according to varying abilities and comfort levels. Please note that weather and wind conditions may affect paddling times.
Routes & Itineraries
1-DAY TRIPS
BARRON CANYON
Paddling Time: 4 to 6 hours return
Depart from Squirrel Rapids and paddle through the towering rock walls of Barron Canyon. Only one 450 m portage is necessary. The current is very gentle; simply change direction once you’ve visited the canyon and paddle back to Squirrel Rapids.
HIGH FALLS
Paddling Time: 4 to 6 hours return
Depart the Achray campground on Grand Lake and paddle over to Stratton Lake, traversing an easy 30 m portage. Paddle Stratton Lake to its very tail end. Once there tie your canoe and follow the footpath to High Falls. This area is very popular for bathers seeking a thrilling ride down the natural rock water slide. At day’s-end, return to Grand Lake/Achray.
CARCAJOU BAY
Paddling Time: 4 to 6 hours return
Enjoy an easy paddle across Grand Lake over to Carcajou Bay. This is a great place to venture for a day’s getaway and picnic alongside a beautiful little waterfall here. Return to Grand Lake/Achray at day’s end.
SEC LAKE
Paddling Time: 2 to 4 hours return
With easy access off Barron Canyon Road, Sec Lake is a convenient place to spend a relaxing afternoon of paddling and exploring the islands on this scenic lake. Sec is well known for its bass fishing — and a great place for family fun.
LAKE MCMANUS
Paddling Time: 2 to 4 hours return
Lake McManus is an inviting waterbody with a serene, wilderness charm. Paddle along its shores for a peaceful day or venture a little further up to neighbouring Whitson and Smith Lakes.
2 to 3-DAY TRIPS
BARRON CANYON
The Barron Canyon is one of the most scenic routes in all of Algonquin Park! To enjoy its full length, follow this suggested route: depart Grand Lake/Achray > Stratton Lake > St Andrews > Opalescent > Brigham Lake > Barron Canyon > Squirrel Rapids takeout.
LAKE TRAVERS
A great getaway for couples or families offering wide open waters and beautiful sandy beaches. Because of the 77 km drive from our store, many paddlers choose to wrap this destination in a single or multiple overnight camping trip.
LAKE EUSTACHE
A very scenic private lake with only two wilderness campsites, Lake Eustace is the deepest lake in Algonquin Park and is surrounded by towering rock walls. Access Lake Eustache from Lake Travers by portaging up the Petawawa River.
3 DAYS PLUS
GRAND LAKE
If you’re planning a paddling excursion into Algonquin Park of three or more days, making Grand Lake your base camp is a good idea. From here, there are multiple options to explore. Grand Lake is a very long beautiful lake and well worth a day of exploration. Next day, paddle over to Stratton Lake to swim at High Falls, or head over to Carcajou Bay and its scenic waterfall. Spend your afternoons and evenings relaxing at your wilderness campsite.
PETAWAWA RIVER
A must for experienced paddlers, the Petawawa River is an iconic whitewater river with challenging rapids, great fishing and stunning scenery. Depart from Lake Travers and paddle to the take out at Lake McManus.
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