Paddle
‘Morning mist floats like smoke over silent water as the sun’s rays erupt over the trees.’
That’s just one magical scene of paddling in Sault Ste. Marie, the type of moment that will stay with you forever. Are you looking for where to paddle in Northern Ontario? We can help you make it happen.
Nestled between Great Lakes Superior and Huron, you’ll discover wild rivers, majestic channels, hidden coves, stunning waterfalls and, of course, more freshwater lakes than you could ever count. Sault Ste. Marie is undoubtedly one of Canada’s top paddling destinations. The options are endless: day canoeing on the historic St. Marys River; kayaking the gorgeous Lake Huron waters of surrounding St. Joseph Island; gliding atop a standup paddleboard over the crystalline waters of Lake Superior’s untouched sandy coves; or even surfing the world’s finest freshwater waves. That’s just the beginning: Sault Ste. Marie is the perfect place for a summer paddling trip in Canada.
Look for that expert local knowledge for a guided Ontario kayak or canoe trip? Our expert Sault Ste. Marie outfitters can help you get the most of your adventure. Northern Ontario guides and outfitters have all the equipment you’ll need and hotels to bookend your trip in comfort.
Paddling Inspiration
Expert Guides
Enjoy a Sault Ste. Marie sea kayaking day trip on the St. Marys River to experience the historic waterfront or hop in the legendary Big Canoe! Do you want a Northern Ontario wilderness trip? Customize your adventure with guided tours for canoeing, kayaking, nature hikes, camping and off-grid camping in Sault Ste. Marie. Our expert guides include Métis Tours, Forest The Canoe and Thrive Tours. More than just paddling guides, all offer land-based learning components exploring Indigenous culture, nature and conservation.
Outfitters
Sault Ste. Marie has paddling outfitters to cater to all your watersports needs. For local information and rentals visit the Waterfront Adventure Centre, Superior East Board Shop , Great Lakes Outfitters, Trading Post, Northshore Sports and Auto, Superior Rentals, Outfitters SSM or Atmosphere. If you are looking for boating then check out these powerboat outfitters: Bud Robinson Motorsports, North Shore Sports, Rivercity Motorsports or Superior Marine.
Marinas
There are numerous marinas and public boat launches in Sault Ste. Marie.
In the downtown core are the Bellevue Marina and Roberta Bondar Marinas. Services include diesel and unleaded fuel, oil, ice, a pump-out unit, WiFi, nautical charts, restrooms and shower facilities. Both marinas serve as Canada Customs check-in points.
To east you’ll discover Lake Huron’s famous North Channel, starting at quaint and scenic St Joseph Island. There are two St. Joseph Island marinas: The Hilton Beach Marina offers 105 docks serving vessels to a maximum length of 80 feet and 10 feet of draft, shore power, gas, diesel, propane and repair facilities for boats, engines and trailers. And across the island, within a short walk from a friendly old-time downtown, is the Richards Landing Municipal Marina. This is a full service marina, open seven days a week during boating season with fuel, shower and laundry facilities, and a Boaters’ Lounge.
