Mattawa River: Blanchard’s Landing to Chant Plein Lake (3 days / 25 km)

The Mattawa is a Canadian Heritage River, as it was an important transportation route for Indigenous Peoples, fur traders and the Voyageurs. You will get to paddle in their footsteps, walk their original portages and camp on sites they used during their voyages. This is a great weekend trip suitable for all skill levels, with entry-level swifts and small rapids, making it a relaxing yet exciting route for even the more experienced paddlers.

Trip Summary

Starting Point: Blanchard’s Landing Boat Launch

Ending Point: Chant Plein Lake Rd (unofficial boat launch)

Total Distance: ~25 km

Duration: 3 days / 2 nights

Difficulty: Beginner

Location: The route runs between the town of North Bay and Mattawa, through Mattawa River Provincial Park and Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park.

Traditional Territory: The Mattawa River lies on the traditional territory of the Omàmìwininìwag (Algonquin) and Anishinabewaki (source).

Maps & Resources

Guidebook: N/A

Map: Mattawa River Map - Chrismar Maps

Interactive Route Builder: Click here to open this map in a new tab.

Permits & Reservations

Campsite Reservations: Not needed, as long as you don’t camp in Samuel de Champlain PP

Camping Permits: No. Mattawa River Provincial Park is a Non-Operating Park therefore no permits are required.

Outfitters & Shuttles

Algonquin North Wilderness Outfitters is conveniently located between the starting and ending points. They can provide full outfitting and shuttle service as well. If you have two vehicles you can pick up your rental canoe with your own car before your trip.

Trip Report

Day 1: Blanchard’s Landing to Elm Point (9.5 km)

Departing Mississauga early in the morning, I met up with a friend from the Ottawa area at our planned take out point, which was the end of Lake Rd on Chant Plain Lake. We left my vehicle there (no official parking but a few spots to pull off on the side of the dirt road) and took ...