Ontario Wilderness 7-day
Whitewater Canoeing

Is this course right for me?

This course is rated level 2 in social-emotional challenge and level 2 in physical challenge. Click here to learn more about the levels of difficulty. This course is best suited for those with a positive attitude and an open mind, who are keen to take on a challenge and build new skills. Participants can expect to push their limits, boost self-confidence, gain new independent skills and learn the importance of teamwork involved in wilderness expeditions. Ideally, participants have  previous camping and paddling experience however, our instructors can support students with all different levels of experience.

AREA & ACTIVITIES

Your course will begin at our Ontario Wilderness base in Minden where you will be introduced to your instructors and they will ensure you have the necessary equipment for your adventure. Upon arriving at the Lake Travers access point, you will begin your journey on the Petawawa River and follow it all the way to Lake Mcmanus. This area has been home to Omàmìwininìwag (Algonquin) and Anishinabewaki Peoples for time immemorial. Explore the rugged landscape of the Canadian Shield as you venture through lakes and rivers lined with dense boreal forest and rocky shores.

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. 

YOUR INNER JOURNEY 

Outward Bound Canada’s Journey courses are designed to help you take charge of your life and realize what you are capable of.  Each experience begins with a physical journey – stepping out of the comforts of day-to-day routines and into an environment that may be very new, adventurous and exciting, but also foreign and uncertain. Facing these changes helps to bring out new perspectives.

Using the challenges of the course as a starting-point, our skilled instructors will teach you how to transfer the skills learned on course to your life at home. These important life skills include caring for yourself, taking responsibility for your choices, expressing your needs and opinions with confidence, and working with others in your life at home.

learning outcomes

Our expert instructors will lead you through unique challenges that require your group to work together to problem-solve, reflect on your journey and discuss how to apply your skills and learning once 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 while learning how to overcome challenges to thrive.

Greater leadership and teamwork skills
Learn the skills needed to succeed at school, work and in life by becoming more confident, collaborative and a respectful team member.

Stronger connection with nature
Develop a life-long relationship with nature.

SOLO EXPERIENCE

One of the highlights of an Outward Bound expedition is to participate in a solo camping experience and on this course, you may have the opportunity to spend a night sleeping alone in nature. You will be placed in a secluded spot where you will set up a shelter and take time for self-reflection. You will have all the supplies you need to stay safe and comfortable, and your instructors will be close enough to offer support if needed and will check in regularly. The solo is not a challenge of survival in the wilderness but rather a supportive environment to take time for yourself, away from the distractions of everyday life. While it may seem like a daunting challenge at first, it is often the most impactful part of the course, as you get an opportunity that few others will ever experience – being alone in nature.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

We believe everyone should be able to explore nature. The Youth Access Fund offers full or partial financial support for those unable to personally finance their Outward Bound Canada experience. Please visit the Financial Assistance page for more information and to apply.