Paddling the Historic Mattawa River 4K 🏕️Camping & Canoeing in North Ontario’s Pristine Wilderness🛶

On this unforgettable adventure, we spent two incredible nights immersed in the natural beauty of the Mattawa River. Our journey began at Talon Lake, Access #5 Blanchards Landing, where we launched our canoes and set off towards the river. The sun was just setting, casting a golden hue over the landscape, and the air was filled with the sound of rustling leaves and our paddle blades hitting the glass like water.

From Blanchards Landing, we paddled into the tranquil Boivin Lake, where the gentle lapping of the water against our canoes created a soothing soundtrack. After a fun 290-meter portage into the Pimisi River, we found the perfect spot to set up camp for the night. As dusk fell, we quickly set up and hit the sack!

The following day was filled with exploration as we made our way down the Mattawa River Provincial Park. The river was alive with the sounds of nature, and we were treated to breathtaking views at every turn. We marvelled at the stunning waterfalls cascading over rocky outcrops, their waters sparkling in the sunlight. We also stopped by the cave along the riverbank, each one a testament to the geological wonders of the area. The highlight of the day was a panoramic viewpoint that offered a sweeping vista of the lush forests and winding river below—truly a photographer's paradise.

On our final day, we ventured into Bouillon Lake, where we navigated through a labyrinth of low water and boulders, testing our paddling skills and teamwork. The thrill of manoeuvring through the challenging terrain only added to the excitement of our journey. Eventually, we reached the Confluence, the breathtaking meeting point where the Amable Du Fond River flows into the Mattawa River, ultimately merging into the Ottawa River at the Dam in Mattawa, Ontario. Standing at this confluence, we felt a profound connection to the land and the waters that have shaped this region for centuries.

As we wrapped up this remarkable paddle and camping trip, I couldn't help but reflect on the memories we had created. I had initially declared this to be my last trip of 2024, but just two weeks later, I found myself packing once again for an exhilarating three-day adventure on Wickstead Lake. So, stay tuned for that video coming soon! Thank you for joining me on this journey, and I hope to see you on the next adventure!

Cheers, Curtis.