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.
About 90 percent of this route lies inside Mattawa River Provincial Park / Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park.
Crown land free camping does not apply here. Provincial parks and conservation reserves set their own rules: designated sites, permits and reservations. Check with the responsible authority before you go.
Mattawa River Canoe Route is estimated at Intermediate. Whitewater ratings are not exact: grades change with water level and season. Verify current conditions locally before you paddle.
The best time is May-October.
Mattawa River Canoe Route is located in the Northeastern Ontario region of Canada.
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Conditions change with water level and season. Grades and positions are for planning, not navigation. Verify locally before you paddle. Terms of use
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