Barron Canyon

Information

This 7 km-long route is one of the most popular and awe-inspiring of the 1,600 kilometres of established canoe routes in Algonquin Park. A one-way excursion is to drive one vehicle to Brigham Access, then canoe down river to a second (shuttle) vehicle left at Squirrel Rapids. Look out for Barn Swallows and Eastern Phoebes nesting on the canyon walls and rare relict plants of glacial times, such as the Encrusted Saxifrage and Fragrant Cliff Fern. The Canoe Routes of Algonquin Park map brochure, obtained at the Sand Lake Gate, is an essential aid to a successful trip.

How to get there

From the intersection of Hwys 17 and 58 west of Pembroke, drive eight kilometers north-west along Hwy 17, pass the Forest Lea Road turnoff and take the next left turn onto Doran Rd (Cty Rd 26). Travel 300 metres, and then turn right onto the Barron Canyon Road. Drive 26 km on pavement, then gravel, to the Sand Lake Gate at the Park boundary, where you can buy a day-use vehicle permit and excellent publications by The Friends of Algonquin Park. Continue west for another 11 km, past the sign-posted Barron Canyon parking lot, on to Brigham Access on your left.

Directions

• Park and leave your shuttle vehicle at Squirrel Rapids and drive on to Brigham Access. Unload your canoes and portage 200 m to the Barron River.
• Set off down river and take a 100 m followed bya 400 m portage. In the Barron Canyon the cliffs rise 100m above. Ten thousand years ago water from Lake Algonquin, formed by melting glaciers, thundered through.
• Carry on down the river and take a 420 m portage to squirrel rapids.

WEATHER/WATER CONDITIONS

Boating Safety
The minimum required safety equipment are one life jacket per person, a paddle per person and a bailer, a whistle, and a throw rope per boat. Travel in groups of two or more canoes for safety. Check the weather and avoid thunderstorms and windy conditions. For more information please visit the Office of Boating Safety