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Magnetawan River

The Magnetawan is a punchy little whitewater river northeast of Parry Sound. By the time summer rolls around, this river is barely runnable (so I'm told) so those chasing the huge water flock to it in May. Huge water is not really our jam so we wait for the sweet spot in June. It's more technical and there's a risk of it being too bony, but when the conditions are right, it's an incredible little run.

We've never actually done the whole length of it from Algonquin to Georgian Bay, but for a two-night trip, Ahmic Lake to Wahwashkesh is a fantastic stretch with plenty of rapids. Check out the videos below to see what it's all about.

Ahmic Lake to Wahwashkesh Lake

This is a section we do every June and love it. We're really getting to know the great sets of rapids in this relatively short section of river.

Nights: 2-3 (depending on how much you want to spend at the rapids)

Paddling distance: 29 km

Shuttle distance: 32 km

Put in: Near Ahmic Lake Resort and leave cars at a little parking area here.

Take out: Find a spot on Wahwashkesh Lake (or get out early in Maple Island)

Outfitter: We shuttle ourselves. 🤷

River data: Real-Time Hydrometric Data Graph

Wahwashkesh Lake to Byng Outlet

We haven't paddled this section yet, but plan to some day. For a long trip, you can paddle from Ahmic Lake to Byng. Once you're past Wahwashkesh though, you're committed. There are no roads or other means of ending the trip early beyond a helicopter. As far as Ontario goes, this is barely the north, but it might feel like it being that far away from roads. The 1.5 hour shuttle which goes way out of the way due to the lack of roads up there makes this trip a bit more of a time commitment logistically.

We're not yet sure where to suggest to get out, but I see some trips end at Magnetawan River Resort, so I think parking can be arranged there.

Nights: 2-3 (depending on how much you want to spend at the rapids)

Paddling distance: 44 km

Shuttle distance: 109 km

Put in: Public boat launch.

Take out: Maybe Magnetawan River Resort?

Outfitter: We shuttle ourselves. 🤷

River data: Real-Time Hydrometric Data Graph