Where to Paddle
The catch phrase for summer is plan ahead, book ahead when planning your paddling adventure. Text, call or email way ahead of time to buy or rent your canoe, kayak or stand up paddleboard (SUP). Book a guided paddling tour with a local outfitter (see list below) to fully experience the watery wonders of BruceGreySimcoe.
This region has evolved into a go-to destination for canoeing, kayaking and stand up paddle boarding. BruceGreySimcoe is home to rivers with rapids and without, calm inland lakes and the wide expanses of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay. For paddlers of all skill levels, many outfitters offer lessons, rentals and shuttle services, plus a wealth of knowledge about the routes travelled.
Rivers
The popular Saugeen River starts in Hanover, flows through Paisley and on to Southampton and Denny’s Dam, which marks the end of the paddling route. One of the best canoe routes in Southern Ontario, the 102-kilometre river route passes smoothly by wooded shorelines, through small communities and between soaring bluffs.
Canoe or kayak through red pine plantations and ancient sand dunes on the Sauble River, which winds its way to the sandy shores of Sauble Beach on Lake Huron. Be prepared to portage at Sauble Falls.
The gently flowing Beaver River, navigable from Kimberley to Heathcote, is just right for novice paddlers. The route features some of the most spectacular scenery in Southern Ontario. Take a breather to marvel at the panoramic views of the Niagara Escarpment and the surrounding countryside.
If only a river mouth could talk! The historic Nottawasaga River, stretching 23.5 kilometres from Edenvale to Wasaga Beach, would certainly have stories to tell. It played a central part in the lives of the area’s Indigenous peoples, was the route of famous explorers and played a significant role in the War of 1812.
Lake Huron & Georgian Bay
On calm days, there is nothing quite like a paddle along the Lake Huron shoreline. For intermediate paddlers, a popular destination is Chantry Island, a federal bird sanctuary about 2 kilometres off the shore of Southampton. It’s also the home of the Chantry Island lighthouse and a restored lightkeeper’s home. Please note that foot traffic is not permitted on the island (visitors must be with a tour group and you can book your tour through the website). Near Oliphant, the Fishing Islands are a chain of islands stretching 20 kilometres north from Chief’s Point to Pike Bay, a scenic and beautiful place to paddle.
For the very experienced and adventurous paddler, a sea kayak is the preferred vessel of choice for exploring the clear waters and majestic shores of Georgian Bay, “the sixth Great Lake”. From Tobermory to Owen Sound to Collingwood to Wasaga Beach, up to Awenda Provincial Park and around to Midland, Victoria Harbour and Port Severn, the shoreline is dotted with numerous bays and inlets to explore. In Tobermory, glide over shipwrecks in both Little Tub and Big Tub harbours and, near Thornbury, the wreck of the Mary Ward is a 4-kilometre paddle from Northwinds Beach (note that parking fees apply). And, remember, when paddling in Georgian Bay that much of this route is shared with larger, motorized boats.
Some hints & tips for a rewarding paddling adventure:
- Review the Visit Responsibly page
- Install the “what3words” app on your phone– the app can help rescue workers find you if you are lost or need emergency services
- Let someone know your planned paddling route and your itinerary
- Check the marine forecast before heading out
- iSUP Saugeen offers a Safe Boating Rental Package (contains everything you need: Transport Canada approved PFD, waterproof two-way radio with weather alerts, floating emergency whistle, 10L dry pack and rescue throw bag). Delivery available.
- Check out the Safe Boating Practices & Regulations in Ontario, Canada (courtesy of iSUP Saugeen)
- Review the Mandatory Gear required for your canoe, kayak or SUP (stand up paddleboard).
- If the parking lot is full at the access point, switch to another less-busy access point
- If possible, paddle at less busy times like mid-week or during the spring and fall (check ahead for water conditions, no matter what season it is))
For More Info and Experiences:
Other Lakes and Rivers