Paddling
Kayak, canoe or paddleboarding…the choice is yours in North Bay.
Paddling can be a thrilling and immersive experience that allows outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to explore the region’s pristine waterways and embrace the serenity of nature.
Whether you prefer the agility of a kayak, the stability of a canoe or the versatility of paddleboarding, paddling gives you a front row seat for the vibrant show of fall colours, the thrill of the gushing spring ice melt feeding a waterfall or the simple joy of a calm summer sunset on the lake.
North Bay is surrounded by picturesque lakes and rivers, including Lake Nipissing, Trout Lake and the Mattawa River where paddlers can glide on gentle currents while discovering hidden coves and secluded beaches.
Kayakers can navigate narrow channels and marshy areas to explore shorelines teeming with life, while canoeists can venture deeper into the wilderness, carrying camping gear and embarking on multi-day excursions on heritage rivers. Paddle boarders of all ages will enjoy the calm waters of nearby lakes and rivers.
Whether you’re a novice or experienced paddler, North Bay provides easy access points for launching your adventure, as well as rental services and guided tours. From tranquil paddles on serene lakes to thrilling whitewater experiences on several nearby rivers, paddling in North Bay offers a chance to connect with nature, experience tranquility, and create lasting memories.
Best Places to Canoe or Kayak
One of the best places to start your paddling adventure in North Bay is the legendary Mattawa River, which is part of the historic Ottawa, French and Mattawa River systems connecting the St. Lawrence Seaway to the Great Lakes. The Mattawa River has been traversed for generations for transportation and trade by the area’s first people, the Anishinaabe.
Easy Canoe and Kayak Outings
Mattawa River
Beginner-friendly paddling routes for bucket-list day trips along the Mattawa River include Pimisi-Bay to Talon Chutes and the must-see Paresseux Falls. For more experienced paddlers and a full day trip, including several easy portages, head down river from Pimisi Bay all the way to Samuel de Champlain Park.
At the Mattawa River’s source on Trout Lake is the North Bay Canoe Club, where it’s not unusual to see sprint canoe and kayak races, and regattas of young Olympic hopefuls honing their skills. Arrange your visit to catch the annual Mattawa River Canoe Race.
La Vase River
The La Vase River is perfect for a relaxing couple of hours of paddling on a quiet river. Put-in and take-out at Champlain Park, right in North Bay. Visit in July for the Friends of La Vase Portages annual Canoe Day, where you get to experience the historic 10km route connecting Lake Nipissing and Trout Lake.
Lake Nipissing
Lake Nipissing’s shoreline is a simple and accessible option for a casual paddle. Try putting in at the North Bay waterfront dock and exploring the shoreline over to Sunset Park, or put in at Sunset Park and meander over to Champlain Park.
Trout Lake
Trout Lake offers numerous canoe and kayak routes suitable for beginners and experts alike, from a few hours to day and overnight trips. Put in at Olmstead Beach and explore Dugas Bay for a couple of hours or head out to Camp Island, then head back to Average Joe’s Eatery , the scene for Boatapalooza, for a lakeside lunch.
Looking for a Backcountry Adventure?
If multi-day wilderness canoe camping or kayak trips are more your thing, explore legendary backcountry canoe routes near North Bay in the iconic Temagami wilderness, the historic French River to Georgian Bay route and at the northern access points of Algonquin Provincial Park.
Best Paddleboarding Spots
North Bay is a perfect place in Northern Ontario for SUP adventures due to the diversity of waterways offering unique experiences for beginners and experts alike.
Put in right at the downtown waterfront at Shabogesic Beach, on the calm, shallow waters of Lake Nipissing. Explore the popular, yet secluded beach at “the Cove” on the deep blue waters of Trout Lake.
Pack a picnic and head out to the pristine wilderness of Otter Lake, with its undeveloped shorelines 15 minutes from North Bay. Make it a paddling day trip and explore multiple accessible waterfalls along the picturesque Mattawa River, stopping at the Elks Lodge Conservation Area, Pimisi Bay for Talon Chutes or Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park for Paresseux Falls.
Paddleboarding goes hand in hand with a relaxing day at the beach. Head out to one of our favourite beaches in North Bay or explore North Bay’s 40 public beach areas and find your own favourite SUP launching spot.
Where to Rent Canoes, Kayaks & SUPs + Guided Trips
North Bay is supported by experienced and knowledgeable outfitters and rental companies that offer delivery and pick-up services as well as guided & self-guided canoe & kayak adventures in and near North Bay.
- The Boathouse Rental Co. is perfect for canoe, kayak and paddleboard rentals and day trips right from the Lake Nipissing waterfront in downtown North Bay.
- SISU Adventures offers kayak and paddle board rentals, a mobile pick-up and delivery service, self-guided trips, meet-ups and support for custom designed paddling adventures.
- Nature Bound is a small local touring company that offers guided paddling trips and basic canoeing courses with a personal touch and local know-how.
- Algonquin North Outfitters is a long-established Algonquin Provincial Park outfitter that offers self-guided trips on the Mattawa River including canoe rentals and onsite delivery.
Explore More Outdoor Adventures in North Bay
Looking for more fun and family-friendly outdoor activities? Discover scenic hiking trails, cycling routes, paddling adventures, fishing spots, beaches and wildlife experiences throughout North Bay and the area.
STAY
STAY
Whether planning a weekend getaway or a family vacation, North Bay has accomodation to suit everyone's needs.
Eat & Drink
Eat & Drink
SEE & DO
SEE & DO
EVENTS
EVENTS
The official visitor guide to local festivals, events and activities in and around North Bay.