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10-Day Whitewater Canoeing, Ontario North

Paddle thrilling rapids, forge new friendships, and unlock your potential on the mystical waters of Ontario’s Spanish River. | July 17-26, 2026

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Course Overview

$3,250 + tax
*early bird pricing until December 15, 2025

Age

14-18

Dates

July 17-26, 2026

Duration

10 Days

Location

Spanish River

Start & End Point

Minden, Ontario

Indigenous Territories

Anishinabewaki & Cree

ACtivities
Whitewater Canoeing

Mapping the Course Ahead 

Embark on an unforgettable 10-day adventure along the Spanish River! Paddle exciting rapids, sharpen your whitewater and river-reading skills, and fully immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of Northern Ontario.

Join a close-knit, supportive group where you can challenge yourself, practice traditional camp craft, and take on leadership roles. Along the way, you’ll build confidence, resilience, and lasting friendships while discovering new strengths and a deeper sense of self.

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Financial Assistance

In order to help reduce financial barriers, OBC is proud to offer the opportunity to apply for our Youth Access Fund for this course.

Learn more

Course Details

On this course, you’ll travel by canoe using techniques practiced for thousands of years while developing traditional camp craft skills, including cooking over fires and building natural shelters. You’ll study the science of river hydrology, learn to navigate rivers efficiently, explore historic Indigenous and logging routes, and encounter wildlife such as northern pike, ospreys, and pristine white pine forests.

Things to Know

Getting to your course is simple. We’ll provide full details once you register but here’s what to expect:
  • Drop-off & Pick-up: Each course has a designated meeting point with clear times and directions provided in advance 
  • Transportation Options: Depending on the course, participants can be dropped off by parents at designated meeting points, or, for those flying in, we can arrange airport pick-up within set arrival windows
  • Support & Supervision: OBC staff are present at designated meeting points and travel hubs. We confirm arrival with parents and support participants during their travels
  • Have questions? Our Admissions Team is here to help: admissions@outwardbound.ca
At OBC, every course is packed with adventure, friendship, and hands-on skill-building in the great outdoors. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities to grow, but a typical schedule might look like this:

Day 1 – Arrival & Welcome

  • Getting Here: OBC staff will meet participants at the Ontario Northland Bus Station in Bracebridge or directly at the OBC base at Kinark Outdoor Centre in Minden. Ontario Northland bus lines are accessible via their Yorkdale Mall stop. This stop can be accessed via public transportation to and from Toronto Pearson International Airport, and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.
  • Confirm Arrival: OBC Staff will confirm participant arrival with parents and/or bring them to the OBC base at the Kinark Outdoor Centre.
  • Meet the Crew: Once at base, participants meet their instructors and fellow adventurers
  • Duffle Shuffle: Instructors guide participants in organizing and selecting appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Paddling Practice: Instructors train students on basic flatwater paddling skills on the lake at the base
  • First Night Together: Enjoy a welcome dinner and spend the night at the OBC base

Day 2 – Packing & Pushing Off

  • Morning Routine: Breakfast at base
  • Transportation: Group departs OBC base via school bus to the “put in” area for the expedition
  • The Adventure Begins: Depart from the shore and set out on your journey

Days 2–9 – Canoeing Adventure

Each day brings a mix of exploration, skill-building, and teamwork. As students gain confidence and independence, instructors gradually transfer responsibility for the planning and execution of daily tasks to them, leading to a final expedition experience. Exact routes and activities vary depending on weather, and group dynamics—but a typical day might look like this:

Morning

  • Wake up, breakfast and morning routine
  • Group meeting on the day’s route and safety briefing
  • Set out on the water, practicing canoeing techniques and teamwork along the way

Daytime

  • Lunch break and rest
  • Continue paddling or focus on skills like navigation and route planning
  • Arrive at new campsite; scout the area and set up camp, 
  • Campcraft session (e.g., cooking, shelter-building, or environmental stewardship)

Evening

  • Cook and enjoy a communal dinner 
  • Evening reflection and leadership development activities
  • Free time for journaling, stories, or group games
  • Quiet time and lights out under the night sky

Day 9 – Back to Base

As the journey comes to a close, the group returns to the OBC base, carrying with them new skills, lasting confidence, and lifelong friendships.

  • Transportation: Group departs the “take out” area  via school bus to return to base at the Kinark Outdoor Centre
  • Unload Gear:Unload and care for outdoor equipment
  • Refresh: A chance to clean up and prepare for the journey home
  • Repack: Organize personal belongings for departure
  • Celebration: Closing dinner with the group and instructors

Day 10 – Departure

  • Farewell Breakfast: Share a final meal together and closing activity
  • Goodbyes: Exchange contact info with new friends 
  • Pick-Up or Drop-Off: Parents pick up participants at the Kinark Outdoor Centre, or OBC Staff provide drop-off at the Bracebridge bus station during set departure windows
We provide the essential group gear and technical equipment including tents, sleeping bags and pads, activity specific (i.e. canoeing, backpacking, kayaking, etc.), and safety equipment, so participants only need to bring personal items and clothing.
  • Packing Checklist: A detailed packing checklist is provided once you register, making it easy to prepare for your adventure
  • Duffle Shuffle: At the start of the course, instructors will guide participants on organizing their belongings, confirming necessary items, and preparing them for the expedition 
  • Recommended Clothing & Footwear: Weather-appropriate layers, waterproofs, activity-appropriate footwear, and quick-drying clothes
  • Personal Essentials: Toiletries, medications, sun safety, insect prevention, etc.
  • Health & Safety: Clearly label all personal items and bring any medication-related necessities (i.e. prescription, allergy, over-the-counter)
Our instructors are more than trip leaders. They’re mentors, role models, and passionate educators dedicated to helping young people thrive.
  • Highly Qualified: Certified and trained in First-Aid for wilderness and backcountry environments, technical activities, broad outdoor skills, and more!
  • Experienced Leaders and Educators: Many years of training, mentoring, and guiding youth in backcountry environments
  • Thoroughly Screened and Vetted: Rigorous hiring process, reference and credential checks, and clear vulnerable sector police check
  • Trained by OBC: Ongoing professional development in leadership, inclusion, and youth development
  • Supportive Mentors: Instructors take a participant-centred approach, meeting youth where they are and guiding them step-by-step to build confidence and resilience.
  • Small Groups: Low instructor-to-participant ratios to ensure personalized guidance and care along with developing an effective team.
“A ship is safe in the harbor, but that’s not what ships are for.” – William Shedd.

Risk and challenge are part of everyday life, and when approached with intention and support, they become powerful tools for growth. On an OBC course, risks are carefully managed and kept to a minimum, ensuring they enhance the learning experience every step of the way.

  • Expert Instructors: Certified and trained in wilderness medicine, risk management, and youth development
  • Small Groups: Low instructor-to-participant ratios for immediate supervision and care
  • Reliable Systems: Well-maintained equipment that meets industry standards, thorough safety checks, and responsive emergency action plans
  • 24/7 Preparedness: Groups carry communication and tracking devices and instructors are trained for emergency response and evacuations
  • Dietary Support: We accommodate allergies and dietary restrictions with advance notice
  • Personalized Care: Health forms are reviewed in advance, and participant care and wellbeing are supported holistically 
  • Learn More: See our Risk Management page for details on our practices
Participants develop practical skills, personal confidence, memories that last a lifetime, and so much more.
  • Leadership & Teamwork: Learn to communicate, collaborate, and support others in small tight-knit groups
  • Outdoor Skills: Gain hands-on experience in navigation, camping, Leave No Trace practices, and activities such as paddling, hiking, etc.
  • Environmental Stewardship: Develop a deeper connection to nature and outdoor places through responsible outdoor habits
  • Life Skills: Build problem-solving, decision-making, organization, and personal responsibility
  • Emotional & Social Growth: Strengthen self-awareness, coping strategies, and friendships through shared challenges
  • Digital Detox: Learn to disconnect from screens and be less reliant on phones, enjoying the present moment in nature
One of the most memorable parts of an Outward Bound course is the solo. Participants spend time alone in nature, reflecting, resting, and connecting with the outdoors.
  • Duration: From several hours up to 48 hours, depending on the course and conditions
  • Instructor-Supported: Instructors are present nearby and regularly check-in
  • Fully Equipped: All necessary gear, equipment, food and hydration are provided for the duration of the solo
  • Personal Growth: The solo fosters reflection, independence, and self-awareness in a focused setting
  • Not a Survival Challenge: This is a supportive experience designed for personal reflection, away from the distractions of everyday life

Is this course right for me?

Social-Emotional Challenge

This course is ideal for those ready to step out of their comfort zone, meet new friends, and strengthen their outdoor and leadership skills. You’ll build confidence, self-awareness, and leadership abilities while learning to resolve conflicts, communicate effectively, and provide constructive feedback. Some days may be challenging and uncomfortable, but you’ll never be alone! Surrounded by supportive peers and experienced instructors, you’ll be empowered to lead both on the course and back home.

Physical Challenge

In addition to social-emotional growth, this course is well suited for individuals with a semi-active lifestyle. If you enjoy casual sports, outdoor activities, and full days outside, this course is a great fit. You’ll face physical challenges that require resilience and teamwork, but there will also be plenty of opportunities to rest, recharge, and soak in the wonder of the natural surroundings.

FAQs

Here are a few questions we often get about this course. For more Frequently Asked Questions, click the button below.

View ALl FaQs

Although being in nature can be described as therapeutic, it is important to note that Outward Bound Canada is not designed as a therapy program. Our instructors are trained in outdoor education and expeditionary travel and are not mental health professionals. The Outward Bound program can be very challenging both physically and mentally, and it is important to your success that you arrive with some healthy coping strategies to deal with these challenges.

Outward Bound is about ordinary people doing extraordinary things! Our courses are designed to challenge participants physically, emotionally and mentally. With a little preparation, you’ll feel more comfortable on the course overall. Students of all ages have successfully participated in wilderness adventures with us.

Overcoming challenges is one of the many tools we use to help you explore your personal potential. You will face physical challenges that are outside your routine, but motivation and the will to try are key to a successful Outward Bound experience. You can start now by engaging in activities that improve your endurance and cardiovascular fitness. Go for a walk, ride your bike, take a yoga class – whatever gets your body moving! On each course page you’ll find a rating and a description of the level of physical and social-emotional challenge the course offers. This gives potential participants an idea of the level of challenge they can expect in each course. Learn more about the levels.

If you are unsure about the physical requirements of your course, please contact one of our admissions coordinators at admissions@outwardbound.ca to find out more about the physical challenge you can expect in each course. When completing the confidential medical history form, please answer all questions honestly and provide as much detail as possible so that we can help you prepare. We are committed to ensuring the wellbeing of you and your group.

A detailed menu is planned before each program, which may change based on a number of factors. We can accommodate many dietary restrictions and most food allergies. Please provide as much detail as possible about your dietary restrictions and allergies on your confidential medical history form. We may ask you for further information so that we can plan your menu.

Participants will receive sufficient calories through the physical activities on the course. It is not necessary for you to bring your own food to the course. Please speak to the Admissions Department to make sure you understand the dietary concerns of the other participants before packing any extra snacks.

You won’t need it – course participants enjoy a vacation from technology! Your cell phone and other personal items you won’t need (wallet, music player, plane tickets, etc.) will be safely stored in our office nearby while you’re in the wilderness.

Once the course begins, you won’t be able to contact anyone at home, you will be immersed in the Outward Bound experience – building a connection to yourself, to others and to nature! Please know that the instructor team has a plan for you to get in touch with our office and your emergency contacts at home in case of an emergency.

Our Cancellation Policy takes into account the fact that most of the costs for your expedition will be incurred before you arrive at your program. Please let us know as soon as possible if you will not be able to attend the program. Please refer to our Cancellation and Refund Policy.

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