Ontario Wilderness
7-Day Introduction to Flatwater Canoe Tripping

Area & activities

Covering 7,635 square kilometers of forests, bogs, lakes and rivers, Algonquin Park is located in the traditional territories of the Omàmìwininìwag and Anishinabewaki Peoples and is the perfect place for an unforgettable summer experience.

Your group will paddle ancient canoe routes through landscapes of maple-covered hills and rugged ridges, where you’ll learn flatwater canoeing and become familiar with paddling techniques and rescue methods. You’ll also gain a range of valuable skills including map reading and navigation, camping knowledge, Leave No Trace ethics, and the art of teamwork and leadership.

Don’t worry about gear: we have everything you need for the expedition, and you can also borrow personal items from our gear library if needed. Be prepared for possible portages that require teamwork.

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 1 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. Instructors will set eyes on each student every hour through the day. 

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.