Magnetawan River

About

The Magnetawan River offers a challenging yet rewarding whitewater experience flowing 175km from Algonquin Park to Georgian Bay with dramatic elevation drops creating Class I-III rapids through pristine Canadian Shield wilderness. Known as "The Mag" to paddlers, this demanding river features legendary rapids like Canal Rapids, Three Snye Rapids, and the infamous Thirty Dollar Rapids where "everyone swims," making it perfect for intermediate to advanced paddlers seeking serious whitewater challenges. The river's remote wilderness setting provides exceptional solitude and wildlife viewing opportunities, though access can be difficult and water levels are only suitable for a limited season. Best paddled in late spring (May-June) during snowmelt when water levels are adequate, with guided trips available through specialized outfitters for safety and logistics support.

Highlights

Crown land along this route

Part of this route, roughly 21 percent, runs through crown land. Crown land is public land. In Ontario a resident of Canada may camp on most of it for free, up to 21 days on any one site in a calendar year. Being crown land is not the same as being open to camping: a provincial park or conservation reserve follows different rules. Part of this route lies inside Algonquin Provincial Park, where those free-camping rules do not apply.

See the crown land map · Ontario crown land camping rules

Frequently Asked Questions