Disclaimer: The route information we provide is of a general nature, and Paddle Manitoba will not be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Conditions on waterways are subject to water levels, weather, erosion, and other environmental factors. There is no substitute for scouting and care while paddling, and users should consult the latest topographical maps before departure. Also note that older documents may not use language or suggest practices that reflect today's standards. Use the information on this page at your own risk.

 

Lake Superior to Manitoba by Canoe

Hap Wilson
Firefly Books
2017

Hap Wilson was tasked with mapping the water route for the Trans Canada Trail from Thunder Bay to Manitoba, known as the "Path of the Paddle". In this book, the 1200km journey is divided into seven parts, with diary excerpts, hand-drawn maps, GPS coordinates, photos, and other information. The majority of the book is routes in northwestern Ontario. 

Availability: In-print and available at local booksellers and on-line.

 

 

A Paddler's Guide to Quetico and Beyond

Kevin Callan
The Boston Mills Press
2007

Kevin Callan brings his popular Paddler's Guide series that typically covers routes in southern Ontario to the northwest. Covering several routes in Quetico Provincial Park, it also offers other routes beyond in other area parks. 

Availability: In-print and available at local booksellers and on-line. 

 

 

Canoe Atlas of the Little North

Johnathan Berger and Thomas Terry
Boston Mills Press
2007

This remarkable atlas, in an oversize format, is a landmark publication — the result of five decades of travel, research and documentation. Its first section provides an overview of the region’s geography, the nature of its canoe routes, and the influence of natural and cultural history on those routes. Its second, larger section features annotated versions of 50 topographic maps. Annotations include points of interest, portages, rapids and difficult passages. For anyone exploring northwestern Ontario, this is the reference for overall planning and the placement of routes in context with larger systems.

Availability: In-print and available at local booksellers and on-line.

 

 

Canoe Routes of Ontario

Province of Ontario
1991 (Revised Edition. Orginal published 1981 with different cover.)

This book is a compendium of more than 100 routes across the province. It does not offer details and maps, but does include a general description and some notes. At the time or printing, after selecting a route of interest from the book, you would then write to the appropriate Ministry of Natural Resources District Office or Conservation Authority for a brochure with further details. Many routes in northwestern Ontario are covered. 

Availability: Not-in-print. Used copies may be found at local used bookstores and on-line.

 

 

Canoe Canada

Nick Nickels
Van Nostrand Reinhold
1976

Outlining routes across Canada, many routes in northwestern Ontario are previewed in this book. There are no maps, but length, time, access, and topographic map numbers are included, along with a general description. 

Availability: Not-in-print. Used copies may be found at local used bookstores and on-line.

 

 

Northern Ontario Canoe Routes

Ontario Department of Lands and Forests
1960s

Outlines routes by drainage basin. The Winnipeg River and Lake of the Woods Basins are covered with several options. Gives general time, distance, portage number, and overview. Later republished in a fold-out map format. 

Availability: Not-in-print. Used copies may be found at local used bookstores and on-line.

 

 

Canoe Trips in Ontario

Department of the Interior - Canada
National Development Bureau
1930

Provides a very general overview of some routes in Northwestern Ontario, along with the rest of the province. No maps are included, but there are some packing lists of equipment of the day. 

Availability:
Paper: Not-in-print. Used copies may be found at local used bookstores and on-line.
PDF: Canoe Trips in Ontario