The Nottawasaga River from Nicolston Dam offers a scenic paddle through southern Ontario's countryside, featuring Class I-III rapids depending on water levels and the unique Minesing Wetlands ecosystem. Starting at the historic Nicolston Dam east of Alliston, paddlers navigate 32.5 km of varied terrain including agricultural landscapes, forested sections, and the internationally significant 6,000-hectare Minesing Wetlands with over 400 plant species. The route includes several challenging log jams requiring portages, particularly in the Angus to Edenvale section, making it suitable for intermediate paddlers. Multiple access points allow for flexible day trips of varying lengths.
This route runs through crown land for nearly its whole length. 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 Beattie Pinery Provincial Park, where those free-camping rules do not apply.
Nottawasaga - Nicolston Dam River 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.
Nottawasaga - Nicolston Dam River is located in the region of Canada.
cartespleinair.org · myccr.com · nvca.on.ca · nicholstondam.com · paddling.com · kayakingthegta.wordpress.com
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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