Ontario Wilderness
10-Day Whitewater Canoe Journey on the Spanish River

AREA & ACTIVITIES

The Spanish River is home to the largest ancient red pine trees and forests in the region. While students gain competence in a whitewater environment, they’ll explore this ancient geography and the wildlife that lives there. Kingfisher and Otters are abundant in the Spanish River region and students will learn how to spot evidence of these and other wildlife in the region.

During the course, you will progress from navigating calm flat water to more lively whitewater. Everything needed for the expedition will be packed away in your canoe. From the moment you arrive, you will be developing skills that will range from paddling strokes, navigation, camp craft, and how to read a river. If rapids are deemed unnavigable by the group, there is always the option to portage around, which involves working as a team to carry your equipment to the next accessible area down river. Teamwork and leadership skills will be developed through shared experiences and natural challenges. 

Learning outcomes

Our expert instructors will guide you through unique challenges that require your group to work together to solve problems, reflect on your journey, and discuss how to apply your skills and what you’ve learned when you return home. The course is designed to have a lasting and measurable impact in three key areas:

• Improved resilience – Improve your mental and physical health and learn how to overcome challenges to succeed.
• Better leadership and teamwork skills – Learn the skills you need to succeed in school, work and life by becoming more confident, cooperative and a respectful team member.
• Stronger connection to nature – Develop a lifelong relationship with nature.

IS THIS COURSE RIGHT FOR ME?

This course is for students aged 14-18 and rated Level 2 for social-emotional challenge and Level 2 for physical challenge. Learn more about the levels of difficulty.

Paddlers of all levels of experience – or none at all – are welcome to participate.
Watch the recording of our Ontario Wilderness summer information session.

Solo experience

One of the highlights of Outward Bound expeditions is participating in a solo camping experience in nature. On this course, you may have the opportunity to sleep alone for one night in a remote location, where you’ll set up shelter and take time to reflect. You’ll have all the supplies you need to sleep safely and comfortably, and your instructors will be nearby to help you if needed and check on you regularly. 

Financial assistance

We believe everyone should have access to exploring nature. We offer full scholarships to help cover the cost of course fees, and the Youth Access Fund offers financial support for those unable to finance their Outward Bound Canada experience personally. Please visit the Financial Assistance page for more information and to apply.