
Lake Superior Provincial Park - Instructional Tour
Lake Superior Provincial Park: Gargantua Harbour to Old Woman Bay
Location: Lake Superior Provincial Park, Northern Ontario, Canada
Duration: 5 Days
Prerequisite: Completion of Paddle Canada Level 1 (preferably L2) or equivalent skills
Trip Overview:
Lake Superior Provincial Park, located in Northern Ontario, Canada, is a popular destination for sea kayaking enthusiasts. With its stunning campsites, breathtaking cliffs, and world-renowned kayaking areas, the park is truly a paradise for paddlers. The backcountry offers a variety of hiking and paddling opportunities, suitable for both easy day trips and multi-day adventures along the dramatic coastline of Lake Superior.
Trip Highlights:
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Small Group Experience:
Our trips are led by experienced Paddle Canada coaches with a max ratio of 4:1 to ensure personalized instruction and safety. -
Incredible Scenery:
Paddle through glacially-formed landscapes, including geological features like scratches, gouges, and "erratics," and stunning river mouths with sandy beaches. -
Expedition Focus:
The trip is designed to help you gain valuable experience on a multi-day kayaking expedition, including navigation, teamwork, and camp management. -
Camping & Meals Included:
Enjoy camping at well-maintained park sites, with all meals provided for the duration of the trip (Days 1-5). Common camping gear like tarps and other essentials are also provided.
Itinerary:
Day 0: Agawa Bay Campsite
- Meet the group and guide at Agawa Bay Campsite for a pre-trip briefing.
- Orientation, group introductions, and gear check.
Day 1: Start the Journey – Gargantua Harbour to the first campsite
- Begin the kayaking journey, paddling along Lake Superior’s stunning coastline and navigating through diverse landscapes.
- Camp overnight at a well-maintained park site.
Day 2-4: Continue to Old Woman Bay
- Enjoy stops for exploration, hiking, and sightseeing while learning expedition skills.
- Camp at various beautiful locations throughout the trip.
Day 5: Final Day – Takeout at Gargantua Harbour
- Enjoy a final morning paddle.
- Conclude the trip with a takeout at Gargantua Harbour.
- Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local chip truck (at your own cost).
What’s Included:
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Guided Expedition:
Small groups led by experienced Paddle Canada coaches (4:1 ratio). -
Meals:
All meals are provided during the trip (Days 1-5), ensuring a fully catered experience. -
Equipment:
A dry suit and kayak are provided for the trip.
Common camping gear, such as tarps, is included. -
Accommodations & Permits:
Camping sites and park permits are arranged in advance, ensuring a seamless trip. -
Pre-Trip Planning:
A pre-trip planning webinar to ensure you're fully prepared for the adventure.
What’s Not Included:
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Transportation:
Participants are responsible for transportation to and from the put-in point (Gargantua Harbour). -
Snacks & Personal Clothing:
Bring snacks and personal paddling clothing (dry suit, neoprene, and paddle jacket). -
Breakfast on Day 1 & Dinner on Day 5:
Breakfast on Day 1 at Agawa Bay Campsite and dinner on Day 5 at a local chip truck are not included.
Why Choose This Trip?
This adventure provides a unique opportunity to paddle along one of Canada’s most stunning coastlines, Lake Superior. It is designed to help you develop essential kayaking skills in a real-world environment, guided by experienced instructors. Whether you aim to enhance your skills for future certification or seek a once-in-a-lifetime journey, this trip is perfect for those with a sense of adventure and a love for the outdoors.
Land acknowledgement
We acknowledge that our Level 2 course in Lake Superior Provincial Park takes place on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabe peoples, within the lands covered by the Robinson-Superior Treaty. Communities such as Batchewana First Nation and Garden River First Nation continue to hold deep connections to these waters. We are grateful for their enduring care and support. This acknowledgement, accompanied by action, includes contributions to Indigenous-led organizations that make a lasting impact.