With over 2,000 kilometres of interconnected canoe/kayak routes, Algonquin Provincial Park is one of the best paddling destinations in the world — and it's right here in Ontario. This iconic wilderness area is so vast, you could fit the entire state of Rhode Island inside it and still have room to paddle.

Algonquin is home to moose, beavers, wolves, loons, otters, and even the elusive eastern cougar. Whether you’re gliding through a misty lake at sunrise or quietly drifting past lily pads in a back bay, the chance of spotting wildlife is part of what makes paddling here so magical.

Beyond its natural beauty, Algonquin holds a rich cultural and historical legacy. The park was established in 1893 as Ontario’s first provincial park, and it's long been a place of inspiration for painters, writers, and outdoor lovers alike. Many of its canoe routes follow ancient Indigenous travel corridors, and remnants of old logging camps still exist along some portage trails — silent reminders of the park’s layered past.

In the early 1900s, railways ran through the park, bringing visitors to a handful of rustic wilderness lodges and inns tucked deep in the forest. While most of those rails are gone, you can still paddle past the old sites where those iconic trains once brought city dwellers into the wild.

Let’s explore some of the best places to paddle in Algonquin Park.

Don’t Forget to Pack the Essentials

No matter which route you choose, packing the right gear can make or break your paddling trip in Algonquin or any paddling destination. From dry bags and proper footwear to water filters and bug spray, being prepared means staying safe and enjoying every moment on the water.

If you’re new to overnight paddling trips, Algonquin Park is one of the best places to get started. Campgrounds like Achray, Kearney Lake, and Lake of Two Rivers offer a perfect mix of backcountry feel with the comforts of home. Flush toilets, a campground office, picnic areas, and lots of people nearby in case you need help. They’re ideal launching points for your first overnight paddling adventure.

💡 Not sure what to bring? We’ve got you covered — check out our Paddling Trip Packing Checklist for a full breakdown of the must-have gear for backcountry trips in Algonquin.

🛶 Paddling Difficulty Legend:

• ⭐☆☆☆☆ = Very Easy – Minimal portaging, short paddles, ideal for beginners and families

• ⭐⭐☆☆☆ = Easy – Light paddling with short portages, basic navigation skills needed

• ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ = Moderate – Longer paddles, multiple portages, suitable for experienced beginners or intermediates

• ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ = Challenging – Demanding paddling days, tougher portages, good fitness required

• ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ = Advanced – Remote routes, whitewater or long portages, expert-level navigation and backcountry skills needed

Beginner-Friendly Paddle Routes in Algonquin Park

If you're new to backcountry paddling or just looking for a more relaxed experience, these routes and access points are excellent choices. They offer beautiful scenery without intense portaging and provide the security of nearby amenities and people.

Kearney Lake – ⭐☆☆☆☆
Calm, accessible waters near Rock Lake. Perfect for first-time overnight paddlers.Accessed from the Rock Lake access point, Kearney Lake is a calm and scenic option perfect for a first-time overnighter. Campsites are spaced out nicely, giving you that backcountry feeling without being too remote. It’s an easy paddle and often used by those easing into multi-day trips.

Achray (Grand Lake) – ⭐⭐☆☆☆
Beautiful scenery with accessible shoreline campsites and nearby amenities. Ideal for a first trip with a bit of independence.
Tucked on the east side of the park, Achray is a beautiful and quiet spot to launch your Algonquin paddling journey. It's a great choice for beginners thanks to its accessible campsites. The scenery is stunning — Tom Thomson even painted here — and the paddling routes on Grand Lake are gentle and beginner-friendly.

📝 Check out Sandy’s journal entry — she’s our Tour Operations Manager here at OVAP and shares a firsthand account of her experience car camping at Achray!

Lake of Two Rivers – ⭐☆☆☆☆
Easy access and added comforts from the nearby campground. Great for families and beginners.
Right off Highway 60, Lake of Two Rivers is a popular spot for beginners. With a nearby campground featuring flush toilets, a small store, and even bike rentals, it’s a great basecamp to explore the lake by paddle and try your first overnight with some added comfort.

Kiosk – ⭐⭐☆☆☆
Quiet and scenic with easy flatwater paddling. A touch more remote but still beginner-friendly.
Located on the northwestern edge of the park, Kiosk is a peaceful entry point that feels off-the-beaten-path. It offers access to wide, flatwater paddling and connects easily to Maple Creek or Manitou Lake for easy overnight loops. The Kiosk campground has staff on-site, making it a safe spot to start your journey.

For the More Experienced Paddler

If you’re ready to take on a bigger adventure, Algonquin Park has some legendary multi-day canoe/kayak routes that showcase the rugged heart of Ontario wilderness. These trips often require multiple portages, solid navigation skills, and a good level of physical fitness — but the payoff is next-level solitude, wildlife encounters, and untouched backcountry beauty.

Routes like Lake Opeongo to Big Trout Lake, the Smoke Lake Loop, or the Petawawa River from Lake Travers to McManus Lake are classic choices for seasoned paddlers. Expect to carry your gear and watercraft between lakes on portage trails that range from a couple hundred metres to over a kilometre. Campsites are only accessible by water, and you’ll need to bring everything you need to be fully self-sufficient for multiple days.

These longer routes give you a true sense of Algonquin’s scale and remoteness. They’re ideal for paddlers who’ve done a few overnighters and are ready to level up their backcountry game.

Here are some of the most amazing paddling routes to explore in the park:

1. Barron Canyon (via Stratton & High Falls Lakes) – ⭐⭐☆☆☆
A breathtaking paddle along towering canyon cliffs. Though technically simple, the visual rewards are next level. Ideal for newer paddlers who want a memorable trip without major challenges.

• Access Point: Achray Campground

• Duration: 2-3 days

• Distance: Approximately 24 kilometers

• Difficulty: Beginner

Located on the park's eastern side, the Barron Canyon route offers paddlers breathtaking views of towering cliffs formed over 10,000 years ago. The journey begins at Achray Campground, traverses through Stratton and High Falls lakes, and passes through the majestic Barron Canyon before concluding at Squirrel Rapids. Due to its popularity, it's advisable to plan this trip during the shoulder seasons or early summer to avoid crowds.

A couple of years ago, we did the Barron Canyon portage from Squirrel Depot to the canyon and back and it was a fantastic day trip! The scenery is next-level and it was a great, easy portage for our first time. Check out our full journal entry about Paddling to Barron Canyon!

2. Tim River to Longbow Lake – ⭐⭐☆☆☆
An out-and-back route known for wildlife sightings (hello, moose!). Only two portages along the way and mostly calm water make this a relaxing paddle through remote-feeling wilderness.

• Access Point: Tim River

• Duration: 2-3 days

• Distance: 32 kilometers

• Difficulty: Beginner

Renowned for frequent moose sightings, this route starts at the Tim River access point on the park's west side. Paddlers navigate eastward toward Longbow Lake, encountering just two portages along the 16-kilometer stretch each way. The calm waters and abundant wildlife make it an excellent choice for those seeking a leisurely paddle immersed in nature.

3. Rock Lake to Clydegale Lake – ⭐⭐☆☆☆
A gentle 3-day paddle with just two short portages. The route winds through scenic narrow lakes and peaceful forests — ideal for those testing out longer overnights for the first time.

• Access Point: Rock Lake

• Duration: 3 days

• Distance: 30 kilometers

• Difficulty: Beginner

This route, situated south of Highway 60, begins at Rock Lake and leads paddlers through Penn Lake before reaching the tranquil waters of Clydegale Lake. With only two portages, each under 400 meters, it's ideal for beginners seeking a manageable yet rewarding experience. The narrow lakes and well-maintained campsites enhance the appeal of this journey.

4. Smoke Lake Loop – ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
A portage-heavy loop with 12 carryovers. Best for paddlers with experience and endurance.

• Access Point: Smoke Lake

• Duration: Varies

• Distance: Approximately 43 kilometers

• Difficulty: Experienced

For seasoned paddlers seeking a challenge, the Smoke Lake Loop encompasses 12 portages, the longest being 1,700 meters. This demanding route rewards adventurers with diverse landscapes and a sense of accomplishment upon completion. Due to its complexity, it's recommended for those confident in their paddling, camping and portaging skills. 

5. Lake Opeongo to Big Trout Lake – ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Classic Algonquin trip with big water crossings and multiple portages. Intermediate to advanced paddlers will love this challenge.

• Access Point: Lake Opeongo

• Duration: 5-7 days

• Distance: Approximately 58 kilometers

• Difficulty: Intermediate

Embarking from Lake Opeongo, the park's largest lake, this route takes paddlers through a series of interconnected waterways, including Happy Isle and Merchant Lakes, before reaching the serene Big Trout Lake. The journey offers a mix of open lake paddling and river travel, with several portages varying in length and difficulty. This route provides a comprehensive Algonquin experience, showcasing the park's diverse ecosystems and offering ample opportunities for wildlife observation.

6. Petawawa River (Lake Travers to McManus Lake) – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Whitewater sections, long stretches between help, and a true backcountry feel. Only for those with experience in moving water.

• Access Point: Lake Travers

• Duration: 4 days

• Distance: 49 kilometers

• Difficulty: Intermediate

Ideal for paddlers with a penchant for whitewater, this route along the Petawawa River features numerous Class I and II rapids interspersed with serene stretches of water. Beginning at Lake Travers, the journey eastward to McManus Lake includes a 1.4-kilometer portage around a chute, with all major rapids offering portage options for safety. This blend of excitement and natural beauty makes it a standout adventure within Algonquin.

Planning Your Trip

When organizing a paddling excursion in Algonquin Park, it's crucial to consider factors such as route difficulty, duration, and personal experience. Consulting detailed maps and guides, like the official Canoe Routes Map of Algonquin Park, can aid in planning and ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey. Additionally, securing necessary permits and reservations in advance is essential, as many routes and campsites are in high demand during peak seasons.

Embarking on a paddling trip through Algonquin Provincial Park offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature, witness diverse wildlife, and create lasting memories on the water. Whether you're a novice paddler or an experienced adventurer, Algonquin's waterways hold the promise of discovery and tranquillity.