Southern Ontario

Thames River Canoe Route River

★★★★☆ 4.0

About

The Thames River spans nearly 400 km across southwestern Ontario's landscape, from headwaters near Woodstock to Lake St. Clair. This unique urban-to-rural paddling adventure features class 1-2 rapids in the upper sections and meanders through farmland, forests, and city corridors. The North Thames route from St. Marys to Delaware (71 km) is best for structured paddling with manageable water conditions. Scenery includes rolling farm fields, riverside forests, dramatic floodplain landscapes, and the urban character of London. Spring offers the best water flows, while summer provides easier access from multiple bridges. Wildlife includes deer, herons, turtles, and geese, though paddlers must carry drinking water due to agricultural runoff.

Highlights

400 km waterwayUrban-rural paddlingClass 1-2 rapidsMultiple access pointsFanshawe Reservoir
Best season: April-October

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difficulty level of Thames River Canoe Route River?

The difficulty of Thames River Canoe Route River varies by section.

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

The best time is April-October.

Where is Thames River Canoe Route River located?

Thames River Canoe Route River is located in the Southern Ontario region of Canada.

View interactive map

Sources

thamesriver.on.ca · ontariossouthwest.com · novacraft.com · myccr.com