Sioux Narrows - Nestor Falls

Canoe Routes

The township of Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls is home to some of the best paddling opportunities in the world. Located on the shores and waterways of Lake of the Woods (often called the Sixth Great Lake), the township offers 6 bucket list canoe routes with easy access along the lake's 105,000 km of shoreline. These fun-filled paddling adventures range from single-day outings to multi-day excursions.

Plan your own adventure along one of the region's original "highways" or enlist the help of a knowledgeable local guide and experience Northwest Ontario by canoe!

Check out these local canoe routes and guides offered by SNNF in partnership with the city of Kenora.

Dogtooth Lake

Difficulty: Easy
Total Distance: 5 km
Total Days: 2
Portages: 0

Choose your own adventure! 5km Paddle from Rushing River to south east camping spot. Great for a 1 night trip in and out. Loop Route is 17km total with Northern Campsite being 7km away but often with head winds. Paddle back is 10km. Easy 3 day 2 night Trip with good weather.

Download Dogtooth Lake Route

Ena Lake to Vermillion Lake

Difficulty: Moderate
Total Distance: 25.9 km
Total Days: 2-3
Portages: 1

With no residences on Vermillion Lake, you will love the feeling of seclusion. Large granite cliffs, dense forest and numerous islands to camp on make this an excellent route to explore. Be sure to check out the beach, hiking trails and waterfalls at the northwest end of the lake.

Download Vermillion Lake Route

Kakagi Lake (Crow Lake)

Difficulty: Expert with winds, moderate with good conditions
Total Distance: 25 km
Total Days: 3
Portages: 0

This 3-day 2-night excursion offers great campsites. The route is also prone to wind which can leave paddlers wind-bound.

Download Kakagi Lake Route

Keewatin to Minaki

Difficulty: Moderate
Total Distance: 40 km
Total Days: 3
Portages: 0

This Keewatin to Minaki paddler's route offers good fishing and established campsites. The river flows north from Keewatin taking paddlers with the current. This popular route also offers boat spotting opportunities. Alternate Route: The Loop Route is 24 km and takes 2 days 1 night with moderate difficulty.

Download Keewatin Route

Lake of the Woods

Difficulty: Moderate
Total Distance: 20 km
Total Days: 2
Portages: 1

This is a good 2-day 1-night in-and-out trip. The sand bar lunch is great, as is exploring the area by canoe and fishing.

Download Lake of the Woods Route

Stewart Lake Loop

Difficulty: Moderate
Total Distance: 23.5 km
Total Days: 3
Portages: 5

This chain of lakes is an excellent example of what Northwestern Ontario has to offer paddlers. The Stewart Lake Loop borders the historical Experimental Lakes and is home to breathtaking rock formations, beautiful beaches, and a diverse set of lakes, all with their own distinct and special features.

Download Stewart Lake Route