The historic Mattawa River offers stunning views of towering granite cliffs and sweeping, windswept pines along its shores. This summer you can experience the Mattawa River as many before us have, by canoe, on the Discover the Mattawa River: Big Canoe Tour at Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park.
Image: Arial view of the Mattawa River, looking upriver from Campion Rapids.
Photo credit: Rob Stimpson
In this tour, participants have the opportunity to paddle a replica Canoe du Maître like the French and Métis voyageurs of the Northwest Company did in the late 1700s.
These canoes were built based on knowledge shared by the Anishinabek, whose guidance the voyageurs heavily relied on.
Image: Participants of the Discover the Mattawa River: Big Canoe Tour paddling in sync.
Photo credit: Rob Stimpson
While taking in the scenic views, park staff will guide you through the role of these big canoes on the Mattawa River: Who built them? Who paddled them and what was their life like? What can we learn from these big canoes as we all work toward truth and reconciliation?
The Discover the Mattawa River: Big Canoe Tour is three hours in length, exploring the Mattawa River east of the park. There is a brief stop at a small waterfall before returning to the launch spot.
Although paddling experience is great, no prior experience is required to participate in a Big Canoe Tour. Just like the voyageurs of the past, the task of driving this canoe is a group effort, and everyone will be supported along the journey.
Tours are available in July and August. For more information, or to sign up, please visit or call the Mattawa River Visitor Centre (705-744-2276) or email Discovery.SamueldeChamplain@Ontario.ca.
We look forward to having you join us on our paddle through the past!