Paddling and water sports

With over half a million lakes and rivers, thousands of kilometres of coastline and countless waterways in between, Ontario is defined by water.

For First Nations Peoples, these routes were highways, travelled by canoe, an Indigenous invention that remains a powerful symbol of Canada today. Deepen the experience on a guided First Nations excursion and learn more about the history of the canoe at the Canadian Canoe Museum.

From easy day trips to backcountry portage adventures, canoeing in Ontario connects you to the landscape. Scuba dive among heritage shipwrecks or catch a wave surfing the Great Lakes. Whether it be sea kayaking Lake Superior’s dramatic shoreline or gliding across peaceful flatwater, the diversity of Ontario’s waters appeals to beginner and avid kayakers. Standup paddleboarding continues to grow in popularity, with rentals and guided tours available across the province. For a rush of adrenaline, join a whitewater rafting trip on the Ottawa River. Choose from heart-pounding rapids or family-friendly runs. If you prefer to take it slow, drift downstream on a relaxing summer tubing float.

However you paddle, discover spectacular canoeing, kayaking and SUPing in one of the world’s greatest freshwater destinations.

Canoeing, kayaking and stand-up paddling

Whether a beginning and experienced paddler, discover the best places and seasons to paddle, fully guided trips, top outfitters and and bucket list routes.

Find adventure on the Trans Canada Trail

From cycling to hiking, here are five ways to experience adventure along this epic trail in Ontario.

Group of Seven inspired paddling trips

Explore Ontario’s gorgeous landscapes made famous by the Group of Seven by canoe and kayak.

Stand up paddle boarding in Ontario

Experience the fun and adventure of stand up paddling in Ontario on a guided trip or with a rental outfitter.

Solo travel ideas and trips in Ontario

Ontario offers an array of unique outdoor and urban experiences perfectly suited for the solo traveller.

Beginner’s guide to kayaking in Ontario

Here is an overview of where and when to go kayaking and a list of great guides, outfitters and instructor.

Ice caves, snowkiting and more Ontario ice-based adventures

Winter activities heat up when Ontario’s waterways freeze, paving the way for exciting ice-based activities such as skating and ice climbing.

Indigenous tours and outdoor adventures

Learn about Indigenous cultures and explore the unique bond with the natural world on a guided tour or land-based activity.

Best Canadian things to do in Ontario

The Canadian experience is waiting for you in Ontario.

The best ways to experience Ontario's waterways

Water-based experiences are an essential part of visiting Ontario, Canada.

Bucket list kayaking routes in Ontario

Get insider info and tips on the province’s top kayaking destinations.

Celebrating women-led tourism businesses in Ontario

From restaurants, bakeries and wineries to accommodations and outdoor adventures, women play a vital role in shaping Ontario’s food, drink and recreational landscape.

Ultimate canoe-inspired Ontario road trip

Follow this week-long itinerary through Ontario’s canoe country, visiting historic paddling sites and charming waterfront towns.

Beautiful provincial parks to visit in Ontario this fall

Immerse yourself in the splendour of fall and discover Ontario’s breathtaking outdoors in these hidden park gems.

Beginner’s guide to canoeing in Ontario

Find some of the best places and seasons for beginners to canoe and get an overview of what you’ll need to get started.

Camping and paddling outfitters and rentals for popular parks in Ontario

Here is a handy list of some of the great outfitters and equipment rental companies in or close to key parks in Ontario.

10 iconic rivers to canoe in Ontario

Here’s a list of iconic Ontario rivers that every passionate paddler should canoe at least once in their lifetime.

Whitewater rafting and tubing

Ontario’s rivers run the full gamut of rafting and tubing action, from high-adrenaline whitewater to a gentle, meandering flow. Find your river match.

Where to go river tubing in Ontario

What better way to beat the heat and have a blast than by floating down a scenic river in an inner tube or river raft.

Experience whitewater paddling Ontario

Experience some of Ontario’s most exciting canoe routes by becoming a whitewater paddler.

Best whitewater rafting in Ontario

Just west of Ottawa, you’ll find the best whitewater rafting in Ontario on the Ottawa River and the Madawaska River.

Scuba diving and surfing

Ride the waves or dive below them. Book certified scuba diving instruction or surf lessons, get insider information on the best locations and shop or rent all the equipment you’ll need.

Beginner’s guide to surfing in Ontario

Get surfing lessons and find out where to buy a board, wet suit and surfing accessories in Ontario.

Guide to scuba diving in Ontario

Whether you’re a beginner or an avid diver, you’ll love the unique scuba diving experiences in Ontario.

Know before you go

Plan ahead with important tips and information.

Book gear and sites ahead

Ontario’s provincial parks are popular paddling and camping destinations. Make reservations for overnight park stays or day-passes and arrange canoe, kayak and other outfitting and gear rentals well in advance.

Plan a paddling itinerary

Embark on a week-long canoe-inspired road trip from Toronto to the Kawarthas, Ottawa Valley and eventually to the nation’s capital.

Attend paddling events

Step up your paddling skills and meet like-minded outdoor enthusiasts at an Ontario paddling event or festival.

Attractions

Enhance your travel plans with these activities and experiences.

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Explore dramatic lakeside cliffs and caves, crystal blue waters, old-growth forests and diverse ecosystems in Bruce Peninsula National Park.

Wabakimi Provincial Park

Over 2000 km of interconnected lakes and rivers in this vast and beautiful northern park provide endless paddling routes.

Woodland Caribou Provincial Park

Besides exceptional fishing opportunities, this park is home of the largest groups of woodland caribou south of Hudson Bay.

Pinery Provincial Park

Experience beautiful nature, rare oak savanna habitats, expansive sand dunes and sandy beaches at Pinery Provincial Park.

Madawaska Kanu Centre

World-renowned paddle school with leading whitewater instruction; inclusive to everyone!

Yours Outdoors

Book a learning vacation to experience the parts of the outdoors you’ve always wanted to master. Adventures available for all ages.

Canoeing The Grand

Arrive to be shuttled with your equipment at your starting point and then enjoy the scene paddling or tubing down the Grand River.

Killbear Provincial Park

Explore rocky landscapes, sandy beaches and scenic trails in Killbear Provincial Park, a popular destination along Georgian Bay.

Frontenac Provincial Park

Experience rugged wilderness, serene lakes, scenic trails and excellent opportunities for outdoor adventure at Frontenac Provincial Park.

Laurel Creek Conservation Area

Enjoy 6 km of trails in the 294 hectare conservation area where you can camp, swim and rent a canoe to paddle the waters.

Port Stanley Beach

Explore the pristine beauty and relaxed charm of Port Stanley Beach.

Toronto Islands

Toronto Islands beckons outdoor enthusiasts, beach lovers and families.

Ontario Sea Kayak Centre

Get out and experience the awesome waters of Georgian Bay by sea kayak with the help of experienced instructors, guided tours and full outfitting...

Canadian Canoe Museum

The museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the culture and history of the canoe.

Big Canoe Project

Join us for guided tours and day camp experiences on the waters of Southern Georgian Bay in a 9 metre canoe and learn all about the unique...

Bon Echo Provincial Park

Spanning 66 square kilometres, its notable features include Mazinaw Rock, the Walt Whitman Monument, a diverse range of bird species, abundant fish populations and trails leading up to observation decks with views of Mazinaw Lake.

Last updated: August 21, 2026