Temagami: Mowat’s Landing to Lady Evelyn River via Obabika Lake (8 days / 139 km)

Passing through many ‘bucket list locations’ of the Temagami region, this trip highlights the beauty and uniqueness of North-Western Temagami. This route passed through famed Temagami locations, such as the vast Lady Evelyn Lake, the stunning Obabika old-growth forests, the Conjuring / Spirit Rock site, quintessential interior Temagami lakes such as Obabika and Wakimika, the cascades of the Lady Evelyn River, Hap Wilson’s Ecolodge, and the third highest point in all of Ontario: Maple Mountain.

We did this trip in late May to early June, but is not water level dependent and can be accomplished throughout the year. The route was not the easiest, with steep portaging, some upriver travel and rugged terrain. Winds on the large lakes throughout the route have the potential to halt a trip on a whim. If up for the challenge, the rewards of the route far outweigh the difficult topography. 

Trip Completed: May / June 2020

Trip Summary

Starting Point: Mowat’s Landing (47.471755, -79.978551)

Ending Point: Mowat’s Landing

Total Distance: 139 km

Duration: 8 days (could be done in as little as 7 and as many as 12)

Difficulty: Intermediate 

Location

This takes place in the region of Temagami, specifically within Lady Evelyn-Smoothwater Provincial Park, Obabika Provincial Park and Bob Lake Conservation Area.

Traditional Territory: This route in Temagami is located on the traditional territory of the Omàmìwininìwag (Algonquin), Cree and Anishinabewaki (source).

Maps & Resources

Guidebook: Kevin Callan's Top 50 Canoe Routes of Ontario and Hap Wilson's Temagami Guide Book 

Map: Jeff's Maps (no longer available) and Regional Topographic maps. We did not use Friends of Temagami Maps but they are also available. 

Campsite Reservations: Ontario Parks Online Reservation

Permits: Permits are required for sections of the route, including any campsite in the Lady Evelyn Smoothwater or Obabika Provinc...