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Loaded boat with paddle on James Bay, Ontario

Other canoe tours

Our meticulously crafted tours provide everything you need for an unforgettable experience including:

  • Round-trip Polar Bear Express train tickets between Cochrane and Moosonee

  • Tent camping while paddling with comfortable accommodations at trip’s end.

  • Expertly guided excursions: we guide you safely down the river stopping at scenic areas where you are free to take your time exploring, fishing, wildlife spotting, searching for fossils, gathering fiddleheads, or capturing the breathtaking views with your camera

  • Immersive indigenous cultural experiences and a handcrafted souvenir

  • All meals and snacks feature Cree cuisine

  • Photography assistance: helping you capture stunning images of your adventure is an integral part of your tour.

Mattagami River is for more experienced paddlers looking for a challenge. 

This five day expedition begins with river access off Ontario Highway 11 West below the town of Smooth Rock Falls.

Note: there are lots of small rapids. It is possible for less experienced paddlers to be part of this adventure but, at the sole discretion of the guide, they might be asked to walk the river bank while the more experienced paddlers shoot the rapids. Each will have their own private canvas tent and enjoy campfires with indigenous cuisine and perhaps even get to experience the wonder of the northern lights! Sights along the way include not only the wildlife but also the Mattagami passing under the Polar Bear Express Moose River bridge. This expedition begins with two days on the Mattagami and finishes with three on Moose River, including paddling to the edge of the Arctic Ocean, conditions permitting. 

 

On the final evening you will stay at Keepaychum or, if it is available, the Hudson’s Bay Staff House on Moose Factory island. A visit to the historic Hudson’s Bay buildings and a James Bay Arctic ocean tour will finish up the trip. This expedition is available for bookings between the third Saturday in May through to the end of June.

Cheepash River: Disembark at Moose River Crossing, an old settlement where the rail meets the river. Then it is a 35 mile paddle to Moosonee where you will overnight at Keepaychum and get treated to a Cree cultural experience of feast, campfire and storytelling, and once dark, the wonder of a starry canopy and perhaps the mesmerizing northern lights might dance in. The next day can include a visit to the historic Moose Fort (Moose Factory) and/or a trip out onto James Bay, before returning in time for the evening train back to Cochrane. This expedition is available for bookings between the third Saturday in May through September.

Please note that in this amazing but challenging environment, all adventures are subject to environmental conditions. The paddling is with the current but against the wind and can be rigorous. For some it will be possible to paddle to the edge of the Arctic Ocean. For others, strong winds and high tides or big rain will hamper trekking, making an additional day an option to fully complete the experience. We plan all trips with room for an inclement weather day, which will be available if necessary for a reduced fee. We are committed not only to your safety but also to making sure you get your full experience, come what may!

Tour Fees are based on the composition of your group. Approximately $750 each

Let us help you start your adventure! Start with a question and your contact information at the bottom right of this page.

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