The Mattawa River is a historic, 76-km heritage waterway flowing east from Trout Lake near North Bay through scenic Canadian Shield valleys with dramatic cliff walls and waterfalls. This beginner-to-intermediate route features 9-14 short portages (all under 500m) avoiding Class 1 rapids, scenic flat-water lake sections, and iconic landmarks like Paresseux Falls and Hell's Gate (an Indigenous ochre mine). The best paddling is in fall or early summer when water levels are moderate; summer brings crowds near Highway 17. Access is excellent with multiple put-in points along Highway 17, ideal for flexible 1-4 day trips.
The difficulty of Mattawa River Canoe Route River varies by section.
The best time is May-October.
Mattawa River Canoe Route River is located in the Northeastern Ontario region of Canada.
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