Trip Rating: 4.0/5
Navy Island is a small, uninhabited island in the Niagara River with a history that is much larger than its footprint. The island sits upstream of Niagara Falls and has been home to Lamoka and Meadowood peoples, a French shipyard serving the Great Lakes, and a British military post during the War of 1812.
In 1837, reformer William Lyon Mackenzie occupied the island and declared the short lived Republic of Canada. The crisis that followed helped shape international law. The Caroline Test on anticipatory self defense grew out of this period and is still cited today when governments justify use of force before an attack occurs.
For paddlers, Navy Island is less about landing and more about experience. The trip combines sheltered river sections, heavy power boat traffic, fast current and big water exposure. It is a serious route that rewards preparation and clear decision making.
Launch Site
The launch is at the Chippewa Boat Ramp on the Welland River. The site has been recently upgraded and includes a proper concrete ramp, playground and large parking area. It can be busy, but there is generally enough room for trailers, fishing boats and kayaks to share space.
Launch coordinates: 4173–4669 Lyons Creek Road, Niagara Falls, ON
Route and Distance
From the ramp you paddle down the Welland River toward its confluence with the Niagara River. The approach section is relatively sheltered, with frequent bird life and views of downtown Chippawa including the most Canadian landmark of all - a riverside Tim Hortons.
Once you reach the Niagara River the character changes immediately. The river is wide, powerful and busy. From here, the route works across and along the current toward Navy Island, staying on the Canadian side of the international border at all times.
The full loop from Chippewa around Navy Island and back can be completed in a single day by experienced paddlers. Actual time on the water will depend on flow, wind, boat traffic and how direct your line is once you are on the main river.
On the Water
The Welland River section is a gentle warm up with frequent signs of wildlife and river life.
As you exit into the Niagara River, expect confused water and wave trains, especially when wind, current and boat wakes stack together. Hydroelectric operations can also change levels and surface conditions with little warning.
Once you commit toward Navy Island the sense of scale increases. The island is heavily treed and feels wild despite its location. The far side faces the American shore and can be particularly exposed in wind and current.
Landing rights for Navy Island are not clearly marked and may change over time. On this trip I chose not to land and instead completed a full circumnavigation from the kayak.
On the return, views downriver toward Niagara Falls are dramatic. On clear days you can see the plume of mist from the Horseshoe Falls rising above the horizon.
Safety and Conditions
This is an advanced trip on big moving water. The Niagara River above the Falls is not a place for experimentation or casual paddling. Route choice, conditions and group experience matter a lot here.
- Expect strong, persistent current on the Niagara River.
- Large, unpredictable waves are common, especially near the confluence.
- Power boat and commercial traffic can be heavy at times.
- Stay well clear of the international border unless you have properly cleared customs.
- Carry a spare paddle, pump, communication device, flares and a properly fitted PFD.
If wind, visibility or boat traffic are not in your favor, there is no shame in keeping the day on the Welland River side and leaving Navy Island for another time.
Cost
$0
Required Skill Level
This route is suitable only for experienced paddlers with strong boat control, comfort in current and rough water, and a clear understanding of big river hazards. At minimum, skills equivalent to Paddle Canada Level 2 are recommended, and higher training may be appropriate depending on conditions.
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