If you've been curious about backcountry canoe camping but unsure where to start, this is a solid entry point.
We’ll be heading into the iconic Algonquin Park for an easy canoe camping adventure on Joe Lake. It’s a short paddle in, about 7km total, with just one 240m portage along the way. The route offers a good intro to how we carry gear between lakes at a steady, safe and manageable pace.
We'll launch from Canoe Lake and follow a calm route past narrow channels and rocky shorelines typical of the Canadian Shield. Weather conditions can change quickly, so we’ll pack accordingly and help you plan ahead. Wildlife sightings are common in this area, so keep your eyes peeled for turtles, beavers, and the occasional moose if we’re lucky.
Once we reach camp, you can settle in and do what feels right. Swim, read, hang out with the group, or practice campsite basics like setting up a tarp or hanging food safely.
This is a chance to experience the magic of the backcountry - falling asleep to the sounds of loons, your tent illuminated by the milky way and learning what you need to know without being thrown in the deep end.
What's included
Sleeping bags and sleeping pads can be rented from WU for a small fee.
If you've been curious about backcountry canoe camping but unsure where to start, this is a solid entry point.
We’ll be heading into the iconic Algonquin Park for an easy canoe camping adventure on Joe Lake. It’s a short paddle in, about 7km total, with just one 240m portage along the way. The route offers a good intro to how we carry gear between lakes at a steady, safe and manageable pace.
We'll launch from Canoe Lake and follow a calm route past narrow channels and rocky shorelines typical of the Canadian Shield. Weather conditions can change quickly, so we’ll pack accordingly and help you plan ahead. Wildlife sightings are common in this area, so keep your eyes peeled for turtles, beavers, and the occasional moose if we’re lucky.
Once we reach camp, you can settle in and do what feels right. Swim, read, hang out with the group, or practice campsite basics like setting up a tarp or hanging food safely.
This is a chance to experience the magic of the backcountry - falling asleep to the sounds of loons, your tent illuminated by the milky way and learning what you need to know without being thrown in the deep end.
What's included
Sleeping bags and sleeping pads can be rented from WU for a small fee.
Pristine Backcountry - Escape the crowded city and enter into the serenity of the backcountry.
Learn to Portage - An essential skill for conquering the Ontario backcountry, learn how to portage with confidence from our expert guides.
Possible Wildlife Spotting - Bears, moose, beavers, eagles and loons are just some of the creatures that call this area home. You'll have a chance to spot some from a safe distance for a magical encounter.
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Saturday, 13th June
07:00 – 10:45 – Pick up close to Keele Station. Drive to Canoe Lake
10:45 – 15:00 – Collect canoes, receive lesson and paddle in to our campsite, eating packed lunch en route
15:00 – 18:00 – Set up camp. Hang out at the campsite. Learn camping skills, paddle, hike, or just relax in a hammock
18:00 – Dinner
Evening – Fireside hangs and stargazing
Sunday, 14th June
Morning – Chill morning at campsite - paddle, swim or hang out in a hammock
12:00 – 13:00 – Lunch
13:00 – 16:00 – Paddle out
20:00 – Return to Toronto feeling utterly reset and refreshed
Member Organized Event Disclaimer
Member-led outings are organized by our community, not by Wilderness Union. We don’t manage the plans, staff, or safety protocols, so you join at your own risk. Please look out for yourself and one another, and have fun!
Food and Drink
You'll need to bring a packed lunch and water for any of our day trips that don't explicitly say we're making a stop at a restaurant. Where we stop at restaurants, you are responsible for the purchase of any food. Full details are available at the adventure plan, shared above on registration.
Carbon Offsetting
Wilderness Union offsets the estimated carbon emissions of every trip by investing in a global portfolio of verified carbon reduction projects.
Members Only
Please note that you'll need an active membership at the time of your adventure to attend. If you booked during a trial that didn't continue or your membership has lapsed, you will need a new membership to attend.
Please read and understand this before registering
Cancellations made:
More than 10 days before the event: Will receive a full refund minus a 5% admin fee.
7–10 days before the event: 50% refund.
Less than 7 days before the event: No refunds.
Weather or emergency cancellations: If an event is canceled due to severe weather or other uncontrollable factors, members can receive a full credit to their account.
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Where can I find important updates about this camping trip in the days leading up to it?
Please follow the Discord thread for this adventure under the ‘Upcoming Adventures’ channel, and reach out to us if you are having any issues.
Full details for this adventure are coming soon. Be sure to check back!
