Here are your Canadian bucket list paddling destinations
Explore the country - one paddle stroke at a time.

Canada is a paddler's paradise, from wild coastal waters to peaceful inland lakes. With the world’s longest coastline, thousands of lakes, and countless winding rivers, there’s no shortage of jaw-dropping destinations to explore. Whether you're a seasoned kayaker or just dipping your paddle in, this country offers unforgettable experiences at every skill level.

⚠️ Note: Some of the destinations listed in this blog are best suited for experienced paddlers due to remote access, rapidly changing conditions, or the presence of wildlife. When in doubt, always paddle with a friend, consult local guides, or book a professional tour — especially when exploring unfamiliar waterways.

We’ve rounded up the top paddling spots from coast to coast to coast — and yes, they’re all bucket list-worthy!

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Before You Go: Travel Light, Paddle Far

One of the best ways to reach these remote and stunning places is with portable watercraft. At Ottawa Valley Air Paddle, we carry top-rated folding kayaks and inflatable SUPs that are easy to pack, lightweight to carry, and built for adventure. Whether you’re portaging into a quiet backcountry lake or checking a provincial park off your bucket list, our gear makes it easy to bring your adventure with you — no roof racks required.

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We’ll kick things off on the West Coast in British Columbia, then travel inland through the Rockies and Prairies, dip into Ontario and Quebec, and finish with the dramatic coastline of Atlantic Canada and the wild remoteness of the Far North. Got a must-paddle spot we missed? Leave a comment and we’ll keep building the list!

British Columbia 🌲

Lush rainforests, rugged coastlines, and misty mountain backdrops — BC is a coastal paddler’s dream.

Haida Gwaii
Paddle through ancient Indigenous territory where dense rainforests meet powerful Pacific waters. You'll find sea caves, towering cliffs, and a deep cultural history. 

Recommended for experienced paddlers or guided tours due to remoteness and ocean conditions.

Johnstone Strait
One of the best places on Earth to kayak with orcas. Paddle alongside pods of killer whales (from a safe distance), with bald eagles overhead and misty mountains in the background.

Open water conditions and marine traffic make guided tours a smart choice.

Photo by: Sea Kayak Adventures

🐋 You may be wondering if it's safe to paddle alongside orcas. Check out this great article by Sea Kayak Adventures to ease your mind. They offer some amazing guided tours, we highly recommend checking them out if you're looking to kayak with the orcas in BC!

Discovery Islands
A lesser-known gem between Vancouver Island and the mainland, these islands offer sheltered waters, marine wildlife, and opportunities for multi-day trips.

Suitable for intermediate paddlers or those with some backcountry experience.

Deep Cove
Just 20 minutes from Vancouver, Deep Cove is a calm, scenic inlet that's great for beginners and day trips. Grab a coffee at Honey's Doughnuts post-paddle — it’s a local tradition.

False Creek
Want to paddle through a city alongside whales? This route winds through downtown Vancouver with incredible views of the skyline, BC Place, and the North Shore mountains. Plus, you might even paddle past an orca, so keep an eye out 😅

Watch for water taxis, rowers, and small harbour vessels — it’s a busy, shared waterway.

Paddling False Creek in an Oru Kayak - Photo by: Oru Kayak

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Alberta 🏔️

Paddle through glacier-fed lakes framed by dramatic Rocky Mountain peaks — turquoise waters and postcard views await.

Lake Louise
Iconic turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Arrive early to avoid crowds, and consider paddling at sunrise for magical reflections.

Cold water paddling — dress appropriately and check weather conditions.

Moraine Lake
Arguably the most photographed lake in Canada — and for good reason. Limited access means fewer paddlers, but those who make it are rewarded with surreal beauty.

Canoeing at Moraine Lake - Photo by: LacMoraine.com 

Athabasca River
A fast-moving river with historical significance as part of the fur trade route. Today, it’s a scenic trip for experienced paddlers wanting a taste of wild Western Canada. 

Requires river navigation skills and awareness of current conditions.

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Saskatchewan 🚜

Rolling prairies meet freshwater lakes and rivers, offering wide-open skies, quiet waters, and surprisingly diverse paddling terrain.

Lake Diefenbaker

Paddle the crystal-clear waters of Lake Diefenbaker, the largest and longest lake in southwest Saskatchewan. Its scenic shoreline is lined with sheltered coves and rugged outcrops—perfect for relaxed exploration or a full-day paddle. Enjoy calm conditions and stick around for some truly unforgettable prairie sunsets.

This lake also connects to the Chief Whitecap Waterway, part of The Great Trail, offering over 100 km of paddle-ready routes along the South Saskatchewan River from Gardiner Dam to Saskatoon. With multiple access points, you can customize your trip—whether you're out for a short paddle or tackling the full route. Designated rest stops along the way include fire pits and picnic tables, and overnight camping is welcome for those continuing their journey the next day.

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Manitoba 🌾

From northern rivers to Hudson Bay, Manitoba blends boreal beauty with bucket-list wildlife encounters.

Churchill
Every summer, thousands of beluga whales gather in the Churchill River and Hudson Bay. Join a guided paddle to get up close (but not too close!) to these gentle giants. The surrounding landscape includes rocky tundra, northern forests, and, if you’re lucky, even polar bears on the shoreline.

Arctic conditions and wildlife presence make this a guided-trip must.

Kayaking with the Belugas in Churchill - Photo by: Travel Manitoba

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Ontario 🛶

From calm inland lakes to the rocky Canadian Shield and Great Lakes coastlines, Ontario offers stunning variety and accessibility.

🛶 Did you know? Ontario has more lakes than any other place on Earth — over 250,000 of them — plus more than 100,000 km of rivers. That’s more freshwater than most countries combined, making Ontario the ultimate playground for paddlers of all kinds.

Algonquin Provincial Park

A classic multi-day canoeing destination with well-marked routes and portages. With over 2,000 km of paddling routes, there’s something for every skill level.

• Barron Canyon – A short, rewarding route perfect for first-time portagers. Paddle beneath 100-metre cliffs for some of the most dramatic views in the park.

• Smoke Lake – Calm waters and easy access make this a popular base for day paddles or overnights. Excellent for beginners.

• Rock Lake to Pen Lake – A scenic route with minimal portaging, great for those looking to level up from flatwater paddling.

• Canoe Lake – A historic and iconic launch spot with options for half-day or full-day paddles. You’ll pass through Group of Seven territory and possibly spot a moose or two.

Park permits are required. Book early, especially during peak summer weekends.

Georgian Bay
The "30,000 Islands" region offers Caribbean-like waters, windswept pines, and rugged pink granite. Great for kayak camping and island hopping.

Open water and weather shifts can be challenging — best for intermediate+ paddlers.

Popular with motorboats and sailboats — stay visible and paddle closer to shore where possible.

Charleston Lake Provincial Park
A quiet escape with crystal-clear waters, rocky cliffs, and well-maintained campsites. Bonus: It’s less busy than some of Ontario’s bigger parks.

Charleston Lake - Photo by: Us! We really loved paddling through this calm lake past the huge rocks. There was a sublime sense of serenity here. 

Killarney Provincial Park
Famous for its pink granite, white quartzite ridges, and sapphire-blue lakes. Paddle across O.S.A. Lake or venture deep into the backcountry for solitude.

Some routes involve portaging and navigation — basic trip planning required.

Lake Superior Provincial Park
Remote and wild. Paddle along dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and towering waterfalls. Be prepared for cold water and fast-changing weather.

Advanced paddling skills and cold-water gear highly recommended.

Ottawa River
Our backyard beauty. Mix calm water exploration with adrenaline-pumping whitewater, or stick to flatwater stretches around Arnprior or Petrie Island for birdwatching and sunset views.

Choose your route based on skill — whitewater sections require experience and/or a guide.

In flatwater zones near towns, watch for boaters, especially on weekends. 

Morris Island Conservation Area along the Ottawa River - Photo by: Us! This is another one of our favourite paddling locations - and it's so close to home! 

Thousand Islands National Park
Over 1,800 islands dot the St. Lawrence River, making it a dream for SUPs and kayaks. Glide past historic cottages, castle ruins, and nature reserves.

If you're paddling in the main shipping channel, watch for large freighters and recreational boat traffic. Stick close to shore or stay within marked park areas for safety.

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Quebec 🍁

Towering fjords, quiet inland lakes, and wild rivers wind through this province’s mix of mountainous terrain and remote beauty.

Parc national du Mont-Tremblant
A stunning mix of mountain views and calm lakes, this is Québec's oldest provincial park. It’s a great option for family-friendly paddling, day trips, or beginner overnights.

Parc national de la Jacques-Cartier
Just north of Québec City, this park features the Jacques-Cartier River winding through a steep glacial valley. It’s a great spot for half or full-day SUP or kayak trips surrounded by dramatic cliffs and wildlife.

Ideal for intermediate paddlers who enjoy a bit of current and river navigation. There are some rapids along Rivière à l'Épaule, so be sure to map out your route if you aren't looking for a whitewater experience 😅

Paddling along Rivière à l'Épaule - Photo by Sepaq.com

Lac Saint-Jean
A vast inland sea that is known for its clear waters and sandy beaches. Launch from Parc national de la Pointe-Taillon and paddle the warm, shallow bays.

Saguenay Fjord
A dramatic, glacier-carved fjord with towering cliffs and marine wildlife. Paddle alongside belugas, seals, and seabirds. The cliffs create a surreal atmosphere that feels more Norwegian than Canadian.

Fjord winds and tides require planning or guided tours.

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Atlantic Canada 🐋

Sea stacks, tidal bays, dramatic cliffs, and historic coastal villages offer salty air adventures across the Maritimes.

Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick
Home to the world’s highest tides, this is a paddle trip like no other. Plan carefully to ride the tide and explore sea caves and rock formations safely. 

Timing is everything — tide charts and guided paddles strongly recommended.

Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland
A UNESCO World Heritage Site with towering fjords, inland ponds, and coastal scenery. Perfect for those craving raw beauty and a bit of a challenge. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a Minke whale! 

Remote backcountry access and ocean conditions call for experienced paddlers or a guide.

Kayaking Gros Morne - Photo by: Hike Bike Travel. Check out their amazing blog post with some specific paddling locations in Newfoundland. 

Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
Don’t skip the Bras d’Or Lake or coastal routes along the Cabot Trail. Sea kayaking here offers wildlife, cliffs, and cultural stops along the way.

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Northern Canada 🧊

True wilderness. Expect Arctic tundra, glacier-carved fjords, and a raw connection to the land and sky — no filter required.

Yukon River
Trace the path of Gold Rush prospectors down this wild, scenic river. Multi-day trips are popular here, and there’s no better place to unplug and reconnect with nature.

Navigation, weather, and remoteness require planning and experience.

Baffin Island, Nunavut
For the truly adventurous. Paddle among icebergs, arctic wildlife, and remote fjords. Requires expert planning and local guides — but offers unmatched bragging rights. 

For expert paddlers only. Always go with a local guide or outfitter.

Baffin Island Kayaking - Photo by: Voyagers Travel Specialists

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Ready to Check These Off Your List?

Whether you're mapping out a weekend escape, planning a summer-long road trip, or dreaming up your next big adventure, Canada’s waterways are calling. From paddling with whales in the North to gliding through mirror-like lakes in the backcountry, each destination offers a chance to reconnect with nature, challenge yourself, and create unforgettable memories.

And the best part? You don’t need a truck, trailer, or bulky gear to make it happen. Our folding kayaks and inflatable SUPs are designed to go where you go — even on a plane. That’s right: you can fly across the country with your kayak or paddleboard as checked luggage and skip the long drive. Whether it’s a local road trip or a cross-country flight, you can bring your gear with you, ready for any adventure.

At Ottawa Valley Air Paddle, we’re here to help you gear up for wherever the water takes you. Drop by our shop, chat with our team, or browse online to find the perfect setup for your skill level and goals. Whether you're a weekend explorer or a full-on paddle nomad, we’ve got gear that moves with your lifestyle.

Got a favourite paddling spot that didn’t make the list? Leave us a comment or send us a message — we’d love to keep expanding this list with your True North gems.

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🛟 New to paddling or exploring unfamiliar waters?

Before you hit the water, check out our post: “10 Essential Paddling Safety Tips: How to Share the Water and Stay Safe.” It covers everything from reading tide charts to navigating busy boat traffic, and it’s a must-read whether you're paddling a backcountry lake or a busy harbour.
👉 [Read the full checklist here]