Ontario Wilderness
1-Week Introduction to Canoeing

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

Forget traditional summer camp! We offer life-changing experiences that focus on building a strong sense of self and community. Through active, real-life activities that celebrate diversity and promote personal growth, you’ll discover who you are and connect with others.

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 designed for youth seeking a transformative experience that goes far beyond traditional summer camps. No previous experience is necessary to join this expedition – you just need to have a positive attitude, be open-minded and enjoy a challenge and learning new skills. Click here to learn how an Outward Bound summer program is different than camp.

This course is for students aged 14-16 and rated Level 1 for social-emotional challenge and Level 2 for physical challenge. Learn more about the levels of difficulty. If you’re age 13 and going into Grade 9 in September 2024 and are interested in this trip, let’s talk! Please reach out to us directly at Admissions@outwardbound.ca for more information.

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

Each Outward Bound Canada course includes a solo experience as an opportunity for self-reflection. In this course, the solo experience consists of a solo sit and meal at the end of the week where participants have the opportunity to be alone in a beautiful natural setting. Instructors are nearby to provide support as needed.

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.