Lake Superior Provincial Park
Lake Superior Provincial Park is one of the great sea kayaking destinations in North America — glacially carved coastline, dramatic cliffs, river mouths, sandy beaches, and the kind of exposure that puts everything you've learned to work. This five-day expedition runs Gargantua Harbour to Old Woman Bay, one of Superior's most striking stretches.
Your group travels as an expedition pod — navigating together, cooking together, setting up camp together. Everyone has an active role. That's how expedition skills are actually learned.
Itinerary
Exact locations and pace may shift based on weather and lake conditions — Superior demands flexibility.
What's Included
- Five-day instructional expedition with experienced ORCKA-qualified coaches at 1:4 ratio
- Kayak and dry suit provided
- Group meals — planned, prepared, and cooked together as an expedition pod (Days 1–4)
- Common group camping gear — tarps, group kitchen essentials
- Park permits arranged for the group
What to Bring
- Transportation to and from Gargantua Harbour — participants arrange their own
- Personal paddling layers — neoprene, paddle jacket, base layers
- Snacks and personal food for Day 0 dinner and the Day 5 farewell at the chip truck
- Personal camping gear — sleeping bag, sleeping pad, tent (if not renting)
Good to Know
- This is an active expedition — everyone participates in paddling, cooking, camp setup, and logistics. No passengers.
- Lake Superior's weather and conditions can change rapidly. The itinerary adapts as needed — that's part of the experience.
- Geological highlights throughout: glacially-formed scratches, gouges, erratics, and river mouth beaches that are worth the paddle alone.
Prerequisite: Paddle Canada Level 1 minimum — Level 2 preferred. You should be comfortable with wet exits, assisted rescues, and sustained paddling in variable conditions. Not sure if you're ready? Get in touch — we'll help you assess.
Questions
Do I need my own kayak or gear?
How does food work?
How do I get to Gargantua Harbour?
What if the weather is bad?
Can I earn a certification on this expedition?
Is this a guided tour?
Certification Pathway
This expedition can count toward an ORCKA Kayak Tripping and Guiding certification if paired with an online theory module. Optional — the expedition stands on its own without it.
We acknowledge that this expedition 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.