Day Trip: Canoeing the Barron River with the Happy Camper
Updated: Aug 21
Flowing out of Algonquin Park before joining the Petawawa River, the Barron River is best known for its dramatic canyon section. But beyond the park boundary lies a quieter side of the river, one filled with fascinating history, towering cliffs, and enough wilderness charm to make you want to call in sick and spend the day paddling instead.
Duration: Day Trip Access: Sand Lake Gate | Total Paddle Distance: 16 km | Total Portage Distance: ~430 m |
Recently, Town staff had the chance to do just that, joining renowned canoeist and author Kevin Callan, better known as The Happy Camper, for a paddle from Squirrel Rapids to Black Bay. Along the way, we uncovered stories of the region's logging past, learned how glaciers shaped the landscape thousands of years ago, and even explored the surprising influence of military training on the area.
The adventure begins at Squirrel Rapids, just inside the Sand Lake Gate access point of Algonquin Park. (A day pass is required if you're parking within the park.) After launching, paddlers are immediately greeted by a short swift beneath the bridge, a fun way to start a day on the water.
As the river winds beyond the park boundary, the landscape begins to tell its story. To the left are lands used as military training grounds, where you might spot a helicopter overhead or personnel conducting exercises in the distance. Not long after, the river widens and passes a seemingly unremarkable clearing. This was once Squirrel Depot, an important stopover during the logging era where workers could rest, resupply, and prepare before heading deeper into the forests of Algonquin.
View of the original chute from the top.
View of the original chute from below.
One of the highlights of the journey awaits at The First Chute. Be sure to take the marked portage on river right, as it safely bypasses the waterfall. During the logging era, this location featured a wooden chute that acted like a giant waterslide for logs, allowing them to bypass the falls without being damaged. Today, visitors can take a short walk to a lookout where a hand-carved stone seat, created by a logger many decades ago, still overlooks the rushing water.
On a warm summer day, the pools below the falls makes an ideal spot for a swim or picnic break.
To your right lies Barron River Waterway Provincial Park, a non-operating provincial park that protects the river corridor and its remarkable granite cliffs. These rock faces create cool microclimates that support plant species dating back to the glacial era, giving this stretch of river both natural beauty and ecological significance.
Beyond The First Chute, the Barron settles into an easy rhythm. The water flows gently through forests and beneath impressive cliff faces that rival those found in the Barron Canyon itself. For paddlers seeking canyon-like scenery without the crowds this section of river is an underrated gem.
As you make your way downstream, keep an eye out for designated crown-land campsites scattered along the shoreline. They offer plenty of opportunities to stop, relax, and embrace what we like best about canoe tripping: slowing down and letting the river set the pace.
Eventually, the river opens into Black Bay, signaling the final stretch of the journey. Passing cottages and waterfront homes, you'll soon arrive at the Rantz Road boat launch, where a day of exploration comes to an end.
Check out Kevin's take on this adventure, and a day paddling on the Ottawa River in the video below!
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