Upper Missinaibi Whitewater

Adventure Overview

Few rivers can match the power, beauty, and history of the Missinaibi River, one of Canada’s great waterways. From its source at Missinaibi Lake, the river rushes 520km North to James Bay over Precambrian granite, through bogs and marshes, all within a Provincial Park. Starting at Missinaibi lake we will spend the next 9 days paddling over 120km, drop 200 feet of elevation, and run over 20 sets of rapids. 

As a Canadian Heritage River, the Missinaibi holds great significance with both the Anishinaabe and European settlers. The Anishinaabe lived in the area for millena, living connected to the land and using the Missinaibi to connect Lake Superior and James Bay. Voyageurs also used the Missinaibi River to travel from Lake Superior to James Bay, eventually establishing trading posts along the way. Some of these cabin ruins are still there today, overgrown with flora trying to reclaim the area. 

A perfect river for beginners to whitewater, this section of the Missinaibi offers a good progression of rapids to help those who are new to whitewater improve their skill and technique. If you are an experienced paddler you will enjoy the many rapids that allow for skill building in running and reading whitewater. Although the pace is relaxed enough to allow for whitewater instruction and plenty of relaxation time, this trip does require a certain level of general fitness with a few longer days on the water and a 1km portage around Greenhill Rapids. 

Camping beside the roar of cascading falls and rapids, fishing in eddies, and enjoying gourmet food by the campfire is truly one of the best ways to experience one of the world’s great heritage rivers!

We acknowledge that the upper section of the Missinaibi River flows through the traditional territories of the Cree and Anishinabek Nations and recognized under the James Bay Treaty No.9, and that we are visitors to this land

Upcoming Adventure Dates

What's Included