The view of the front of a Kayak floating on a blue lake in Canada.

13 Best Places For Canoeing & Kayaking in Canada [2025]

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Are you looking to go canoeing or kayaking in Canada? You’re in luck, as these are two of the most popular activities to do here. And with good reason – Canada is home to the most lakes AND the longest coastline in the world!

With such a huge variety of waterways, there are tons of great paddling routes to choose from. Although this can make it difficult to decide where to start. So, to help you narrow them down, I’ve put together a list of the top canoe and kayak trips in Canada.

How do I know these are the best? I’ve lived in Canada since 2018 and canoeing is one of my favourite things to do here! And throughout this time, I’ve come across amazing canoe and kayak spots, from east to west coast. So, read on for everything you need to know about the best kayaking and canoeing in Canada!

Chasing Chanelle contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services we use and trust. Read our disclaimer for more information.

Best Places To Go Canoeing and Kayaking in Canada

Canada is such a vast country made up of varying landscapes, ecosystems and waterways. And with as many as two million lakes and 243,042 kilometres (151,019 miles) of coastline, one of the best ways to explore this beautiful country is on the water.

Luckily, canoeing and kayaking are popular activities in Canada. There are tons of options for beginner, intermediate and advanced paddlers. From short canoe routes in iconic locations, to multi-day portage trips, white water rapids and sea kayaking, there’s something for everyone!

But with so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to decide where to start. So to help you narrow it down, here are the 13 best places to canoe and kayak in Canada.

A woman canoeing in Canada at sunset, on a lake in Algonquin Provincial Park.

1. Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario

Algonquin Provincial Park is one of Canada’s most beautiful and peaceful places. And it’s my favourite place to go canoeing in Canada!

Located about a 3-hour drive north of Toronto, Algonquin is Canada’s oldest provincial park and is a paddler’s dream destination. The park is huge, spanning 7,630 km² (2,946 square miles). And with more than 1,500 lakes, countless ponds and marshes, and 1,200 kilometres (745 miles) of rivers and streams, there are endless waterways to explore.

Given how big the park is, you can easily get off the beaten path here and find true peace and quiet in the Canadian wilderness. I’ve had days in Algonquin when we haven’t seen anyone else and have had a whole lake all to ourselves. Plus, Algonquin is a great place to spot wildlife such as moose, bears, otters, beavers, loons, and many other native birds.

There are 29 different access points throughout the park. The most popular one is Canoe Lake, which is easily accessible from Highway 60. Here, you will find an onsite Algonquin Outfitters store, where you can rent canoes, kayaks and other equipment.

A canoe heading through a waterway filled with lily pads in Algonquin Provincial Park.
Algonquin is the ideal place for multi-day trips

Canoe Lake is a great spot to explore for a few hours to try canoeing or kayaking. But multi-day canoe tripping is really where Algonquin shines, as the quintessential place for ‘portaging’ in Canada

This involves navigating a multi-day canoe route through various lakes, carrying the canoe from one body of water to the next (known as ‘portaging’) and camping at picturesque lakeside campsites each night. The first time I paddled in Algonquin was actually my very first time portaging! I went with a group of friends and it was one of my favourite group trips to date.

However, for safety reasons, I would only recommend doing this if you’re an experienced paddler and backcountry camper, or are accompanying someone who is. Or, if not, then you can still experience a typical Algonquin Park portage trip by booking a guided tour.

2. Iceberg Alley, Newfoundland

One of the most epic places to go sea kayaking in Canada is along the eastern coast of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Known as ‘iceberg alley’ this renowned stretch of coastline on the Atlantic Ocean earned its name due to the spectacle of huge icebergs that float past each year in spring and early summer. This creates a stunning backdrop for paddlers and a truly unique kayaking experience.

Kayaking in Iceberg Alley is a thrilling yet humbling experience, as you get to witness nature’s grandeur up-close. The colossal ice formations, which have been sculpted over thousands of years, provide for an unforgettable experience as they majestically drift by through the sparkling water.

Two kayakers passing by three tall icebergs in the waters of iceberg alley in Newfoundland.

Kayaking in the sea always comes with some safety risks, and icebergs can be very unpredictable! Therefore, kayaking in iceberg alley is something you should only do with an experienced guide.

Although keep in mind that getting close to icebergs will depend on a few factors, including how much ice has broken off the coast of Greenland that year.

For the best chances of kayaking with icebergs, you should aim to visit Newfoundland in June or early July. Some of the best places to see icebergs are Twillingate, Trinity and St. John’s.

3. Johnstone Strait, BC

Nestled amidst beautiful British Columbia, the Johnstone Strait stands as one of Canada’s most sought-after kayaking destinations.

Stretching about 80 kilometres (50 miles) between Vancouver Island and the mainland, this waterway can be challenging to paddle. But it nonetheless beckons kayakers with its mix of stunning landscapes, raw nature and fantastic marine and wildlife. In particular, the Johnstone Strait is one of the best places in the world to kayak with whales!

Humpback whales frequent the area all summer long, and you can see orcas in the strait from late July to early September. Plus you might encounter seals, dolphins, sea lions, and the ever-watchful bald eagles soaring overhead.

Two people kayaking in Canada through the dark blue waters of the Jonstone Strait in BC.

Most kayakers opt for multi-day trips here. This is the best way to fully experience the beauty of the strait, explore the area’s highlights and camp along the beautiful and rugged shores.

Given the sometimes challenging nature of paddling the Johnstone Strait, you should only do a self-guided trip if you’re an experienced kayaker. Otherwise, there are various tour companies which offer guided expeditions, such as Spirit of the West Adventures and North Island kayak.

➡️ BOOK: BC Canoe & Kayak Tours

4. Lake Louise, Alberta

Lake Louise is one of the most iconic places in all of Canada. Considered the jewel of Banff National Park, it’s famous for its bright turquoise water surrounded by dramatic snow-capped mountain peaks, as well as the iconic Fairmont Château Lake Louise.

Most people who visit Lake Louise will stroll around the lake to see it from different angles, or hike up to one of the different vantage points for views from above. But, as one of Canada’s tourist hotspots, the walkways and trails do get busy. So, a great way to escape the crowds, and see the lake from a different perspective, is to go canoeing!

The Fairmont operates an onsite boathouse which offers canoe rentals on a first come first served basis from the end of May until October 9. They aren’t cheap to rent, with hourly rates up to $145 CAD. But paddling on the vibrant blue water is a unique experience, which for many justifies the price.

Or, to save some money, if you own your own vessel and arrive early enough to get a parking spot, you’re actually allowed to launch your own canoe or kayak on Lake Louise.

Several tourists canoeing in Canada on Lake Louise's bright turquoise water.
Alternatives to Lake Louise

As an alternative, you can also canoe on Moraine Lake – the nearby small-sister to Lake Louise. Although Moraine Lake is about half the size of Lake Louise, the water is equally bright and the views are just as spectacular. Canoes can be rented from the Moraine Lake Lodge for $140 CAD per hour.

And if neither of these options appeal to you, Banff’s lesser-known neighbour – Yoho National Park – is home to another pristine and vibrant lake – Emerald Lake – which you can also canoe on. True to its name, the lake has a vivid blue-green colour but is not as busy as its more famous cousins.

However, even if you prefer to canoe somewhere other than Lake Louise, I still highly recommend visiting it. When I first visited it I was worried that it was overrated and would be too crowded. But, despite the crowds, it is still one of the most beautiful places I’ve seen in Canada!

5. Haida Gwaii, BC

Haida Gwaii is a remote and rugged archipelago off the northern coast of British Columbia. It’s pristine coastal beauty, ancient rainforests and secluded beaches make it one of the best places to kayak in the world.

Plus, with a rich cultural heritage, Haida Gwaii offers kayakers an immersive paddling experience unlike any other.

Paddling around Haida Gwaii presents an opportunity to marvel at the region’s unique ecosystem, where lush forests meet the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. You can spot fascinating marine life, including humpback whales and sea lions. And, along the shore, you might even see some of Canada’s most iconic animals, such as bald eagles and black bears!

The tip of a green kayak which is paddling through Haidi Gwaii in British Columbia.

The archipelago’s rich cultural history, deeply rooted in the heritage of the Haida Nation, adds an enriching layer to a kayaking trip here. You can visit ancient Haida village sites and witness towering totem poles to learn about the vibrant traditions and stories that have shaped the identity of this remarkable place.

Due to its remoteness and typical risks which come with sea kayaking, prior experience is required to kayak at Haida Gwaii.

The best way to explore the area is on a guided tour, such as through Kingfisher Wilderness Adventures. This will make the logistics of getting to Haida Gwaii easier for you. And it ensure you get the most out of the trip by learning about the archipelago’s history and culture from a local guide.

6. Yukon River, Yukon

Another very remote, but extremely rewarding canoeing and kayaking destination in Canada is the Yukon River.

Carving its way through the rugged terrain of the Yukon Territory in northwestern Canada, the legendary Yukon River stands as a testament to the country’s untamed wilderness, taking you deep into the heart of the North American backcountry.

Paddling along the Yukon River is a journey through pristine landscapes teeming with wildlife, from huge grizzly bears to soaring eagles and elusive caribou. As you navigate its waters, you’ll find yourself immersed in breathtaking scenery with towering mountains, untouched forests, and dramatic cliffs.

This historic river, once a lifeline during the Klondike gold rush, now attracts adventurers from around the world seeking the thrill of its challenging Class III rapids and the allure of an authentic wilderness experience.

The bright blue Yukon River, which is one of the best places to go canoeing and kayaking in Canada.

Given its remote location, canoeing or kayaking the Yukon River really needs to be done on a multi-day trip. But both self-guided and guided tours are available to book. And for a truly awe-inspiring beginning to your adventure, getting to this remote part of Canada is accessible by helicopter or seaplane!

7. Georgian Bay, Ontario

Georgian Bay, located in Ontario at the northeast arm of Lake Huron is a spectacular place for kayaking. With thousands of islands, unique rock formations and clear blue water, there is so much to enjoy here.

Paddlers can explore the bay’s intricate network of channels, discover hidden coves, and relax on pristine sandy beaches. Plus, at the top of the Bruce Peninsula, which separates Georgian Bay from the rest of Lake Huron, you can even see shipwrecks while kayaking!

Kayaking through Georgian Bay also provides a chance to see its unique geological features, including the Thirty Thousand Islands. These 1.2-billion-year-old granite formations make up the world’s largest freshwater archipelago and are a fascinating place to paddle.

As one of the Great Lakes, paddling on Lake Huron is similar to sea kayaking. This means it requires a higher level of skill than paddling on smaller and calmer lakes. If you don’t have much kayaking experience, there are local outfitters offering rental services and guided tours. For more experienced sea kayakers this is an excellent place for a multi-day kayaking and camping trip!

A white pebble beach and turquoise blue water during fall in Georgian Bay, Ontario.
Alternatives to paddling on Lake Huron

Alternatively, if you’re not ready to brave the waters of Lake Huron just yet, luckily there are some other options to explore the area. There are several inland lakes on the Bruce Peninsula which are much calmer for kayaking and canoeing.

And once you’ve done paddling, you can explore the shore of Georgian Bay on foot. There are several amazing hiking trails taking you to breathtaking view points, pristine beaches with bright turquoise water, and the famous cave known as the Grotto.

The last time I was there it was the peak fall season and the colours along the coast were particularly spectacular, due to the vivid colours of the golden tree-tops and vibrant blue water.

8. Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick

Nestled along the coast of New Brunswick, the Bay of Fundy is a fascinating place to kayak along some of Canada’s most interesting coastline.

With a tidal range of 16 meters (52.5 feet), the Bay of Fundy is known for having the highest tides in the world. On top of this, it has a distinctive coastal geology and diverse marine life, making it an excellent spot to explore by kayak.

Paddling through the Bay of Fundy you will witness dramatic tidal fluctuations, which create an ever-changing landscape of exposed seabeds and towering cliffs. And you can see some of Canada’s most unique geological formations.

In particular, in Hopewell Rocks Park you can kayak amongst the iconic ‘flowerpot’ rocks. These giant sandstone rock formations have been carved out by the relentless tide, creating the unusual shapes complete with narrow passageways and small tunnels you can paddle through.

A rock formation protruding from the water at high tide in the Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick.

You should also keep an eye out for various species of marine life which call the waters around the Bay of Fundy home, such as whales, dolphins, and an array of seabirds.

There are several local outfitters which offer guided tours of the bay, as well as rental services. In particular, Baymount Outdoor Adventures offer both daytime and after dark tours, for a truly unique experience.

9. Deep Cove, British Columbia

Deep Cove in North Vancouver is one of the best places to go kayaking in Canada without having to leave the city.

Just 17 kilometres (10 miles) from downtown, Deep Cove is nestled at the foot of the coastal mountains, near the entry to a long inlet off of Vancouver Harbour, called Indian Arm. This is a stunning place to explore the waters of the Pacific Northwest and experience the region’s natural beauty. Plus, the cove itself is a great spot for beginners to kayak, with calm and sheltered water.

And, if you have the skills to do so, Indian Arm is the perfect spot to explore for the day. There are several islands you can paddle to in around 1-2 hours each way. I would recommend paddling to Twin Island via Raccoon Island, and back past Jug Island.

If you’re not experienced enough to paddle on your own, the best way to explore the area is by taking a guided Vancouver kayaking tour.

Several yellow kayaks on the beach at Deep Cove, which is one of the best places to canoe and kayak in Canada.

Or, if you have the experience and time, paddling all the way down Indian Arm makes for an excellent overnight trip! There are several picturesque campsites you can stay at along the arm. One particularly spectacular place to camp is the beach just south of Granite Falls, towards the end of the arm.

10. Ottawa Valley, Ontario

Not only is Canada a great place for canoeing, portaging and sea kayaking, but it also has some amazing river kayaking. Of these, the Ottawa Valley in Ontario is home to several world-class kayaking spots.

In particular, the valley’s Ottawa River is one of the best places in the world for whitewater kayaking. In fact, it’s internationally recognized as a premier destination for whitewater paddlers of all skill levels. And for true thrill seekers, the daredevil sections of the river have rapids ranging from class III to IV.

It’s worth noting that whitewater kayaking should only be undertaken by experienced paddlers. But, if you’re new to whitewater kayaking, you can take a beginner’s course through the Ottawa Kayak School. Or, if you want to experience the area in a calmer setting, I would recommend taking this kayak and summit Ottawa day tour.

A woman partially submerged in water as she kayaks through a big rapid in Canada.

On top of the thrilling whitewater rapids, the Ottawa River is also a really diverse and scenic place to kayak. As you navigate the river’s twists and turns, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the valley’s lush forests, meandering waterways and the rugged beauty of the Canadian Shield.

Plus, keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife that call the Ottawa Valley home, including beavers, otters, and various bird species.

11. Athabasca River, Alberta

The Athabasca River is another epic waterway which makes the list of best places to canoe or kayak in Canada.

Originating at the Columbia Icefield in Jasper National Park, the Athabasca River flows for 1,231 kilometres (765 miles) all the way to Lake Athabasca in Saskatchewan. Canoeing or Kayaking the river offers one of the most breathtakingly beautiful paddling experiences in all of Canada.

The river is surrounded by views of the dramatic Canadian Rockies, with stunning mountain vistas, verdant forests and diverse wildlife, seamlessly blending the serenity of the backcountry with the grandeur of nature.

Paddling here, you will be fully immersed in the tranquility of the park. And it offers a unique perspective of the untouched wilderness that characterizes this iconic Canadian destination.

A yellow canoe on the shore of the blue Athabasca River in Jasper National Park, Canada.

Keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife, including elk, deer, and a variety of bird species that frequent the riverbanks. And, if you’re lucky, you might even spot a moose or bear!

There are different sections of the Athabasca River which suit different types of paddling and skill levels. This includes calmer waters suitable to multi-day canoe trips, and class II rapids requiring whitewater experience. And, for a group experience, you can also go whitewater rafting on the Athabasca River!

12. Churchill, Manitoba

Churchill Manitoba is located on the shores of Hudson Bay and is known for being the polar bear capital of the world. On top of this, the Churchill River is also frequented by beluga whales! This makes it a one-of-a-kind kayaking destination in the heart of Canada’s Arctic.

Kayaking the Churchill River gives you an opportunity to get up close to these stunning animals, as you navigate the pristine waters and take in panoramic views of the rugged coastline. This is a particularly special experience, as you find yourself surrounded by the vast expanse of the Arctic tundra and exploring the area’s rich biodiversity.

A mother polar bear walking with her two cubs during a snowfall.

The safest way to kayak the arctic waters is by taking a tour with an experienced guide. There are several local tour companies which offer these experiences, such as Sea North Tours.

In addition to kayaking, make sure to join a polar bear expedition while visiting Churchill. This is the best reason to visit Churchill, as you will get to see them up-close in their natural habitat, for a truly bucket-list worthy experience!

13. Lake Superior, Ontario

Finally, the list of best places to canoe and kayak in Canada wouldn’t be complete without Lake Superior. Straddling the US-Canada border, Lake Superior is the biggest freshwater lake in the world!

In addition to its impressive size, Lake Superior is also one of the most beautiful places in North America. In particular, Canada’s north shore of the lake is home to the Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area. Here, you can kayak on crystal-clear waters, along rugged shorelines and past dramatic cliffs.

Paddling in the park you will come across a wide range of remarkable features, such as rare arctic-alpine plants, towering cliffs, amazing biodiversity, shoals, islands and ancient rock formations. Occasionally, you might even spot wildlife along the shores, such as bald eagles and moose.

Two paddlers kayaking in Canada on Lake Superior in Ontario.

As such a huge body of water, the conditions on Lake Superior are often more akin to the ocean. While the water can be calm, the weather can change quickly. So you should always be prepared for strong winds and rough conditions.

This is also not somewhere to kayak if you’re inexperienced. Luckily, for anyone without the required skills, there are several local outfitters that offer guided day and multi-day tours.

➡️ BOOK: Canada Kayaking Tours

Kayaking and Canoeing in Canada Map

How to Prepare for Canoeing and Kayaking in Canada

It’s always important to be well-prepared for canoeing and kayaking. This will ensure you get the most out of the trip, and stay safe while doing so. To help you prepare, here is some key information to take into account.

Best Time to Go Canoeing and Kayaking in Canada

Canada has very cold winters and many lakes freeze during this time. So you can only go canoeing and kayaking in the warmer months.

Generally, the water will thaw out sometime in May. But this is very weather dependent and can vary across the country. And even if the ice has melted in May, the water is still VERY cold then. So unless you’re a very experienced paddler, you probably don’t want to get on the water straight away.

As such, June to October are usually good times to go canoeing and kayaking. In particular, August and September are two of the best months, since there is usually warm weather at this time, and fewer bugs than earlier in the summer. Plus, the water has warmed up by then, so it’s also a great time for swimming.

Experience Required

Most of the places to go canoeing and kayaking in Canada require a certain level of experience. It’s especially important to have the required experience when it comes to sea kayaking, whitewater and multi-day trips.

Where to go if you’re a beginner

Some places which are well-suited to beginner paddlers are Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and Emerald Lake in Alberta. And Deep Cove in BC is the ideal spot for an introduction to sea kayaking.

For multi-day canoe trips, some of the shorter routes in Algonquin Provincial Park are great for first timers. This is actually where I first went portaging and it was a great place to learn, with lots of short portages and smaller lakes to navigate.

A woman holding two paddles and standing by the entrance to a river at the end of a portage.
Basic knowledge required

Even if you’re starting out on a small and calm lake, it’s important to at least have a basic understanding of paddling techniques and water safety before going canoeing or kayaking. And it’s essential that you know how to swim!

Make sure to research proper equipment usage, what to do in changing weather patterns and how to recognize risks before you give paddling a go. Plus you should talk to the outfitters where you rent your equipment from, as they can give you advice specific to the local area.

If you’re a more experienced paddler looking to tackle a slightly more challenging trip, there are also some things to brush up on ahead of time. Familiarity with navigating various water conditions, such as lakes, flowing rivers, and potentially challenging rapids, is essential.

Book a guided tour

If you don’t have the required experience, or prefer to be on the safe side, then booking a guided tour is the best (and safest) way to experience Canada’s waterways. This is also often the most enjoyable way, since it ensures you get the most out of the experience, with the expertise of a local guide. Plus, all the logistics are taken care of for you!

Travel Insurance

If you’re planning to canoe or kayak in Canada, it’s really important to have appropriate travel insurance coverage. Canoeing and kayaking are activities which include a level of danger. And if something does go wrong, the cost of being rescued and associated medical expenses could cost you thousands.

Some insurers include paddle sports in the cost of their basic travel insurance plan. Whereas others require you to add it on as an extra. Therefore, make sure you understand your policy and, if required, purchase additional insurance before your trip if canoeing or kayaking isn’t already included.

My favourite insurance plan is Nomad Insurance through SafetyWing, which is available on both long and short-term plans. This is a travel medical policy which includes coverage for canoeing and kayaking. Plus, it’s one of the most affordable and comprehensive travel insurance policies on the market!

What to Pack & Wear

Packing and dressing properly for the conditions is another important step to staying safe while kayaking or canoeing in Canada.

Life jackets / PFDs

The most essential item you will need is a life jacket – also known as a PFD (personal flotation device). In fact, you’re required by law to have one with you when paddling in Canada!

Luckily, most outfitters offer PFD rentals in addition to the vessel and paddles, or include them in the price. If not, then they will usually make this clear at the time of booking.

Bailer kit

Another requirement to have with you when canoeing or kayaking is a bailer kit. This will be included with your canoe or kayak rental and is required in case you capsize. The kit usually includes the bailer (to remove the water from the boat), a rope and a whistle.

Equipment for day trips

For a day trip on the water, make sure to pack some basic items to keep you safe and comfortable. This includes sun protection (as the sun can be particularly bright when reflecting off the water), bug spray, snacks, drinking water, and some layers in case the weather changes.

Two people canoeing and kayaking in Canada, at Deep Cove in British Columbia.
Equipment for multi-day trips

If you’re planning a multi-day trip, you will need to be much more thorough with your packing. You will need to bring camping and cooking equipment, food for the duration of the trip and a water filtration system.

Plus, you’ll need safety equipment like a first aid kit, satellite communications device (like the Garmin inReach Mini 2), rope and a gear repair kit.

It’s also important to be bear safe in Canada. Therefore, in most parts of the country you’re required to take a bear barrel or bag to store your food in and hang from a tree overnight. I would also advise taking bear spray as an extra safety precaution.

Finally, you will need to take extra clothes to sleep in and stay warm in different weather conditions. And, you should pack everything in dry bags, to keep your gear from getting wet.

What to wear

When canoeing or kayaking the best clothing to wear are quick dry items like sports or hiking clothes. Or, you can buy clothing which is specifically designed for paddling. Alternatively, you can also wear swimwear!

It’s good to wear layers when paddling, as they’re easy to put on and take off as needed. And I’d always recommend taking a rain jacket, as this can keep you warm and dry, and act as a windbreaker.

I would also recommend investing in a pair of water shoes. These will be the most comfortable shoes to wear while paddling as they’re lightweight, comfortable and quick drying. And they’re particularly useful if you have any portages.

Tip: From my experience, I would also recommend wearing lighter coloured clothing. There can be a lot of insects in Canada’s backcountry, especially during early summer. Insects like mosquitos and black flies are attracted to darker colours, so you’re less likely to get bitten if you’re wearing something lighter!

FAQs

Is canoeing and kayaking popular in Canada?

Yes, canoeing and kayaking are incredibly popular activities in Canada, with both locals and tourists. Canada has the most lakes and the largest coastline in the world, as well as exceptionally diverse landscapes. As a result, there are tons of great places to go paddling here, from peaceful lakes to technical rapids. This makes Canada a sought-after destination for paddling enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Do you need a permit to canoe or kayak in Canada?

Permit requirements for canoeing and kayaking in Canada vary depending on the specific location and waterway.

While some areas may not necessitate permits for recreational paddling, most national parks, provincial parks, or protected areas do require permits. This is especially true for overnight trips or expeditions. You should always check before you go paddling to ensure you have the right permit to do so.

Do you need to wear a life jacket to kayak in Canada?

Yes, wearing a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) is a legal requirement for both canoeing and kayaking in Canada.

Can I take my own canoe or kayak to Lake Louise?

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own canoes or kayaks to Lake Louise. However, the logistics of doing so can be a little tricky. The lake gets very busy and there’s limited parking onsite, so you might struggle getting your canoe or kayak there.

Therefore, if you want to launch your own vessel, you will need to arrive extremely early to make sure you can park and unload your equipment.

Can you kayak in the ocean in Canada?

Yes, kayaking in the ocean is very popular in Canada. Both the east and west coasts of Canada have some amazing spots for it.

In particular, the Johnstone Strait, Haida Gwaii and Deep Cove in BC, Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick, Iceberg Alley in Newfoundland, and Churchill, Manitoba, are some of the best places for sea kayaking in Canada.

Is canoeing or kayaking better in Canada?

The choice between kayaking and canoeing in Canada depends on personal preference and the type of experience you’re seeking.

Canoeing is better suited to calmer lakes and multi-day trips which will involve portaging (carrying the canoe between lakes). Plus, canoes can carry a larger load, so you can take more things with you, which is ideal for longer trips.

Whereas kayaking is better suited to more challenging bodies of water, like the ocean, large lakes and rapids. This is because they’re easier to handle in rough conditions than a canoe. And, if you capsize, it’s easier to upright a kayak.

What’s the difference between a kayak and a canoe?

Kayaks and canoes are both small, narrow watercraft that are propelled using paddles. But they differ in design and usage.

Kayaks typically feature a closed deck with a small opening for the paddler, while canoes generally have an open top and are designed for sitting or kneeling. Kayaks often have a covered cockpit and are typically used for sports like whitewater kayaking, offering maneuverability and speed. Whereas canoes are more commonly used for leisurely paddling and carrying larger loads.

A canoe resting on the shore on a foggy morning in Algonquin Provincial Park in Canada.

Final Thoughts – Canoeing and Kayaking in Canada

With so many great paddle routes to choose from, it can be difficult to decide where to go canoeing and kayaking in Canada. With thousands of pristine lakes, thrilling whitewater rapids and fascinating coastlines to explore, there’s something for every type of paddler.

Of course, it’s impossible to list all of Canada’s amazing canoeing and kayaking destinations in one place.

But I hope this list has at least helped you decide where to go paddling next. Or has inspired you to add canoeing or kayaking to your list of things to do in Canada!


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