Wilderness Canoe trips 2023
Wilderness Canoe Trip Adventures
Great Lakes Cultural Camps offer a range of services from easy hikes and lake paddles to an introduction to moving water and canoe tripping adventures within the traditional territories of many First Nation regions of Northern Ontario. Our premium canoes and camping gear coupled with expert, experienced outdoor educators and cultural camp experiences we have established over the years mean your trip will be safe, challenging to your needs and satisfying for your soul. Most of our Algoma, Manitoulin, Aux Sables River and Killarney area canoe trips are from early spring to late fall. Our traditional knowledge and history of the region gives us an opportunity to share with visitors First Nation history, culture and activities.
Dumoine River, Upper Missinaibi River, Manitoulin Island, French River, Spanish River, Aux Saubles River, LaCloche and Killarney trips can are multi-day adventures camping on the river or lake bank. River trips in particular are subject to impact by water level fluctuations in both paddling safety and camp locations.
Come with us on a journey to explore a world of First Nation traditions and natural wonders in the back country. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery that unfolds before you on our guided canoe adventures.
Persons wishing to participate in our whitewater adventures must have some canoe experience, otherwise just a desire to enjoy a Great Lakes Cultural Camp Adventure. For those less inclined towards the faster pace we know more than a few pristine wilderness lakes suited to paddlers of any ability. Upon confirmation and registration Trip details regarding clothing, gear list, times, features and highlights of each trip are available. Participants, parents or guardians must read and sign a release waiver - Terms & Conditions.
We will custom fit any canoeing adventure to meet your own personal needs, location, time, unique requests, paddling ability and adventure level. You can be back at the end of the day for supper or 10 nights out – it’s your choice! Make your experience one to remember. We look forward to meeting you and sharing our rich First Nation history and culture with you.
Plan and book now for 2020
Upper Missanabi River, Ontario
The majestic Missinaibi River is one of the longest free-flowing wilderness waterways in Ontario. Whitewater canoeists can paddle and explore ancient rock paintings along the rocky shores of this historic fur-trading route all the way to James Bay. Wildlife abounds here, and fish are abundant. The Missinaibi flows North, uninterrupted for 350 miles to James Bay. You will be playing and practicing your whitewater skills in Class I and Class II rapids as you slowly make your way to Thunderhouse Falls. A spectacular campsite, it is perched 150 feet above the canyon, where time is spent marvelling in the natural beauty of Thunderhouse Falls. Below the falls, the river drops 300 ft. in a single day, as the Missinaibi plummets off the Canadian Shield and on to the Hudson's Bay Lowlands. Whitewater enthusiasts will find a wealth of challenging rapids along this waterway, yet alternate routes offer quieter adventures and time for introspection in a wilderness setting.
Number of Days: 15 days
Dumoine River, Quebec
The Dumoine River was a significant trade and travel route for the Algonquin People. The river is located in Western Quebec and flows over 100 km from the Kipawa Highlands to the Ottawa River.
This world famous and classic white water river is filled with class I & II technical rapids and filled with old growth white pine forests, waterfalls, and stunning views.
Enjoy a freshly baked dutch oven lasagna with while soaking in the spectacular view of the Grand Chute.
You’re final day will include several fun class II rapids and finish with a stunning view of cliffs and peaks 500 to 600 feet above you.
This is a challenging and technical river, participants must have previous whitewater experience. If you do not have whitewater canoe experience? Join us for a course prior to your trip.
Level of Difficulty : Moderate, Class 2 -3 + whitewater
Number of Days: 5
French River, Ontario
The French River was the main water highway to the west in Canada from 1600 to the mid 1800's. The Anishinabek name for the river is Wemitigoj-Zibi (French River). The early French explorers gave the river the name la Riviere des Francais.
Designated as the first Canadian Heritage River, the French River has always been an ancient trade route and significant to the Anishinabek of the area.
“A brief history of the area reveals that the early explorers showing up in the early 1600′s searching for a shorter route to the West didn’t know that they encountered a very distinctive people along the waterways from Montreal leading to Lake Huron and beyond, nor did they realize they were utilizing ancient trade routes long since established by the Anishinabek. The Beaver Clan People are identified as occupying the Lake Huron and French River System, in the Anishinabek Creation Story.
The Amikwa (Beaver People) are one of the Clans first recognized by Europeans in the 1600′s, by Champlain. The Amikwa are Anishinabek, belonging to the Algonquin linguistic group whose numbers and territories were greater than other groups encountered at that time, in what later became Canada. They are still here today!” The History Project, Henvey Inlet First Nation.
A 105 kilometre canoe route of interconnected lakes, gorges and rapids from Lake Nipissing to Georgian Bay.
Level of Difficulty : Easy-Moderate, Class 2+ whitewater
Number of Days: 3, 5, 7
Temagami, Ontario
Situated in northeastern Ontario. This is truly one Ontario’s secret gems! The lake's name comes from Teme-Augama which means "deep water " in the Anishinabe language.
The pristine Temagami wilderness includes old growth pine forests, stunning blue water, pictographs, many sacred sites and the friendly Anishinabe community of Temagami First Nation located on Bear Island in the heart of the Lake Temagami.
With over 20 canoe routes that stretch across Temagami's incredible wilderness, making the area destination for many back country enthusiasts. There is a canoe route to match everyone’s interest and sense of adventure.
Level of Difficulty : Easy-Moderate, Flatwater
Number of Days: 3, 5, 7
Killarney, LaCloche Islands , and Manitoulin Island
We offer multi day canoe trips with our guides, an excellent opportunity to adventure into Killarney Park and onto Georgian Bay. The clear blue lakes and white quartzite hills offer beautiful areas for canoe tripping and hiking, while Georgian Bay is a spectacular shoreline of pink granite islands and clear fresh water. Manitoulin is the largest freshwater island in the world at 180 kilometers long (112 miles) and 50 km. wide (31 miles). The name “Mnidoo Minsing” Manitoulin is Ojibwe word for “island of the spirits” and is a sacred place by many First Nations people. Dramatic panoramic views of Manitoulin itself, Lake Huron and Georgian Bay are prime canoeing and kayaking destinations. Come and hear local history and traditional stories of the Anishinabek.
Level of Difficulty : Easy
Number of Days: 3, 5, 7
What to Expect
Great Lakes Cultural Camps “GLCC” is a small family run business that focuses on all the details. GLCC expeditions and adventure learning programs are designed to provide participants with high quality, in-depth instruction in a range of indoor and outdoor adventure activities. Our programs are intensive adventure experiences geared to the abilities and interests of participants. We specialize in Ontario Recreational Canoeing & Kayaking Association (ORCKA), Paddle Canada (PC), Wilderness Medical Associates (WMA), Boreal River Rescue, National GPS, Leave No Trace (LNT) certification programs, backcountry and authentic First Nation Cultural Experiences. We also coordinate and offer a variety of other year round indoor and outdoor experiential learning activities. GLCC offers a complete wide variety of top of the line canoes, kayaks, and sup boards. We have all the equipment you need to begin your paddling experience on the North Shore. It’s all about high quality gear and superb instruction.
Our adventures are fun, exciting, and challenging because they involve the active participation of each individual. If you wish to participate, you should be aware that very little will be done for you. Our friendly staff will take the time to share their knowledge and skills on how to live on the land. Consequently, your satisfaction will be enhanced knowing that it is your effort that leads you through the wilderness and your determination that helps your team. You will also derive satisfaction knowing that it is through your cooperating spirit that everyone in the group is able to accomplish their day-to-day goals. You can expect a safe environment, wonderful snacks, awesome pre-cooked meals, and a unique experience to remember!
About GLCC
We are a group of adventure based educators with a common interest in exploring all aspects of our great outdoors. Our primary focus is on canoe adventure expeditions. We also coordinate and guide a variety of other outdoor adventures from Aboriginal Cultural Guided Experiences to traditional games and land-based skills. Our innovative action learning programs are motivational in nature and are delivered “in high energy” focusing on personal responsibility, celebration of one’s self and the gifts we carry, the importance of not being afraid to take healthy risks to try new things in life. Our adventure based activity programs are practiced in keeping with the “Grandfather Teachings” and are planned to include all abilities and levels of comfort.
Ontario Recreational Canoeing and Kayaking Association Certification
We are able to provide ORCKA certification on our wilderness canoe trips if you desire.
ORCKA Certification Basic Canoe 3
Basic Canoeing Level 3 is designed to introduce the novice or relatively inexperienced canoeist to tandem paddling. The emphasis is on mastering the fundamentals of canoeing along with a strong grounding in water safety and safe canoeing practices.
ORCKA Certification Moving Water 1A (Tandem)
This Ontario Recreational Canoeing & Kayaking Association course provides an introduction to whitewater paddling for those with little or no experience in whitewater paddling. The emphasis is on tandem canoeing skills, understanding whitewater principles, and river safety. It opens up a whole new avenue of paddling skills and fun to the canoeist. This course provides a standard provincial certification of competence for tandem moving water paddling. Successful participants of the MW 1A course can progress towards MW 1B (solo) and MW 2 & 3 Certification. Our program is geared to your particular needs and abilities. We look forward to the opportunity of sharing a new learning experience and adventure in whitewater paddling. After these 2 days on the river, your thirst for real adventure will be quenched and you will take home a powerful set of whitewater skills for future adventures in the backcountry! No experience necessary.
ORCKA Certification Canoe Tripping Level 1 or 2
Canoe Tripping Level 1 course provides an introduction to canoe tripping for those with little or no tripping experience. Emphasis is on wilderness canoe camping skills and safety. Canoe Tripping Level 1 prepares candidates to be safe, skilled and knowledgeable participants on short duration canoe trips lead by more experienced canoe trippers. It is expected that successful graduates of this course will progressively build their canoe tripping experience. Canoe Tripping Level 2 provides the experienced canoe tripper with the opportunity to improve his/her canoe tripping skills under more challenging conditions. Canoe Tripping Level 2 involves a canoe trip, stressing organization, safety, and introduces the fundamental concepts of leadership, and risk and crisis management. Canoe Tripping Level 2 is applicable to tandem and solo canoe paddling candidates. All candidates will be given the opportunity to paddle a loaded canoe solo.
ORCKA Certification River Running Canoe 1
The object of this course is to have participants paddling comfortably and safely in both the bow and stern positions in a loaded tandem canoe as well as alone in a loaded solo canoe. As this is an introductory white water course participants will work in Class I and Class II rapids focusing on building confidence in controlled yet challenging conditions.
ORCKA Certification Moving Water Solo Canoe 1B
Paddlers have always played on rivers and play boating is the evolution of this desire to master their fluid environment. The course provides an introduction to whitewater solo paddling for those with little or no experience. Emphasis is on solo canoeing skills, understanding whitewater principles and safety. The course involves instruction on topics including safety, theory and skill development. There is ample time to practice moving water paddling skills such as: eddy outs, peels, "S", turns, ferrying, front & side surfing and lining. You'll be opening up a whole realm of whitewater playing possibilities.
Our Classroom
Instruction is "hands-on" and personal, giving you the opportunity to learn through experience. Experiential learning is one of the most effective tools available for helping individuals learn and apply knowledge. Solid facilitation, opportunities to process learning and real life experiences ensure a unique way of learning. Whether the focus is team building, leadership, cultural enrichment, science, survival or skill building, we promote hands-on learning. This approach to teaching acknowledges and meets the needs of participants' varying learning styles.
Our Enthusiastic Participants
The key to a great trip is a group of participants who are highly motivated to participate. Great Lakes Cultural Camps is not the type of program where participants are sent against their own will. We only accept participants who express a strong desire to join our expeditions and contribute positively, which assures everyone of having the best possible group experience. You will return home with not only a variety of fascinating skills, but also with new friends and a true First Nation Cultural experience.
Safety Practices
All of our staff hold current first aid & CPR certificates, have experience working with children and youth, and have taken part in our extensive staff training. In addition, we ensure that staff carry a knapsack containing a fully stocked first aid kit, participant information, bear deterrent, a whistle, sunscreen and extra clothes. All staff facilitating adventure programs, have related qualifications, training and experience. Proper safety equipment for all of our programs is used and regularly inspected (i.e. first aid kit, PFDs, water rescue equipment, personal locator beacon, GPS etc.).
Medical Training of Our Instructors
Great Lakes Cultural Camps requires all instructors to be trained at a Wilderness First Responder (WFR). Industry standard medical training for backcountry instructors is a Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification. Wilderness First Responder certification means the instructor has passed an 80 hour intensive course, focused first on prevention and treatment of back country emergencies.
Instructor Student Ratio
For a backcountry adventure trips, the maximum instructor to student ration should be 1:6. Lower ratios mean a safer experience, better supervision, more opportunities to learn, and better interaction with role models. In our water activities our staff to participant ratio is based upon the industry standard established by ORCKA (Ontario Recreational Canoeing & Kayaking Association) certification guidelines. Our student ratio is 1:5 in solo boating, 1:6 in kayaking, 1:8 canoe tripping. Our staff always work in teams of two or three. There are no individually facilitated programs. We have 2 instructors on all our programs and additional support staff larger groups.
Customize Your Program
We will custom fit any of our unique programs to meet your own personal needs including First Nation Cultural Education, Workshops, Corporate Team Building, Cultural Dance Performance, Group Size, Location, Time, Private Instruction and unique personal requests. It’s your choice! Make your experience one to remember!
Prepare for an unforgettable cultural experience through the woods and mountains taking in unbelievable scenery! Our mobile unit can travel and deliver our programs almost anywhere.
Equipment - Great Lakes Cultural Camp Adventure Equipment
Great Lakes Cultural Camps uses high performance gear. All guests are outfitted with Coast Guard approved PFD’S (personal flotation device) Wetsuits, fleece jackets, splash jackets and helmets are all included in the price . Our gear is top of the line and in great condition. We wash and air the gear after every trip
Canoes and Kayaks
Great Lakes Cultural Camps maintains over 18 whitewater kayaks and 25 whitewater canoes. By having a large inventory of kayaks and canoes, there is something to paddle for all skill levels and body types. GLCC provides our Week of Rivers clients with their preferred boat each and every day, without the hassle of bringing a boat down from home.
Solo Canoes
Esquif L’Edge
Esquif L’Edge Lite x 2
Esquif Spark
Esquif Zephyer
Esquif Taureau
Esquif Raven x 2
Esquif Spanish Fly
Bell Ocoee
Madriver Outrage
Madriver Outrage X
Blackfly Octane 91
Black Fly Option
Tandem Canoe (Esquif Factory Outfitted)
6- Esquif Canyon’s
Flatwater Canoe (Mike Yee Outfitted)
10 - Oldtown Appalachian’s
Clothing and Equipment - What You Need To bring
Our entire experience takes place outside, involving solo and tandem paddling. As part of our experience you will be getting wet! Great Lakes Cultural Camps provides all the equipment such as canoes, pfd’s, paddles, throw bags, safety equipment, etc. If you have your own canoe, paddle or pfd, you are encouraged to bring it with you.
