Northern Ontario

Missinaibi River Canoe Route

~ Intermediate
★★★★⯨ 4.5
15
rapids mapped
5
portages mapped

About

The Missinaibi River holds an important place in the history of Canada and is one of the country's Heritage Rivers. In the days of the fur trade, the Missinaibi River was the main route between James Bay at the southern end of Hudson's Bay and Lake Superior, the largest of the Great Lakes. It free-flows for over 500 kilometres, from Missinaibi Lake to where it becomes the Moose River before mixing with the salty waters of James Bay, with countless class II-III rapids, expansive marshland, and scenic cascades: including Thunder House Falls, a powerful chute that cuts through a dramatic canyon. Complete paddling takes 20 days; most paddlers choose 10-12 day sections in summer through early fall.

Highlights

Canada's Heritage River500+ km free-flowingClass II-III whitewaterThunderhouse FallsHistoric fur trade route
Best season: June-September

Protected area along this route

About 100 percent of this route lies inside Missinaibi 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.

See the public land map

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difficulty level of Missinaibi River Canoe Route?

Missinaibi 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.

When is the best time to canoe Missinaibi River Canoe Route?

The best time is June-September.

Where is Missinaibi River Canoe Route located?

Missinaibi River Canoe Route is located in the Northern Ontario region of Canada.

View interactive map

Sources

tripreports.voyageurtripper.com · frontierbushcraft.com · canoemuseumstore.ca · ontarioparks.ca · northernontario.travel

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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