Bonaventure River Canoe Trips

Additional Bonaventure River Canoe Trip Information

The Gaspe Peninsula of Eastern Quebec extends into the Gulf of St. Lawrence and is commonly thought to mean ‘the end’ in the language of the Mi’kmaq people. Today, a sportsman’s paradise, the Bonaventure River is the crown jewel of paddling on the Gaspe. Its people are hearty individuals and the forest industry, as well as commercial fishing, predominates on the peninsula. For those looking to extend their canoe trip, either before or after, the Gaspe Peninsula makes a wonderful vacation destination and offers ample areas and backcountry scenery to explore.

The Bonaventure River begins at Lac Bonaventure, a small, remote lake accessible only through miles of remote, rough dirt roads. From its outlet, the river begins only as a small stream, less than 25 feet wide in certain places. The Bonaventure River, as with many rivers on the Gaspe Peninsula, is heavily impacted by seasonal ice floes and spring run-off, so places throughout the river may be choked with dri-ki (driftwood) that require tight maneuvering in the canoe. Therefore, prior canoe experience is recommended for this canoe trip.

From Lac Bonaventure to the terminus in the Baie de Chaleurs, the Bonaventure River grows in size with each day of the canoe trip. With is consistently dropping gradient, paddlers are allowed the opportunity to enjoy nearly continuous yet easy Class I whitewater, with some technical corners thrown in. The Bonaventure River canoe trip is a whitewater focused trip but allows paddlers the opportunity to paddle through tracts upon tracts of untouched wilderness area throughout the northern boreal forest. It is common to spot moose, deer, and the occasional bear throughout its rugged reaches and waterfowl, eagle, and beaver are also common.

Fishing on the Bonaventure River

Fishing on the Bonaventure River is a highly regulated and highly prized endeavor due to its abundant and closely managed population of native Atlantic Salmon. Therefore, fishing on the Bonaventure River canoe trip is just not an option. However, the Bonaventure River, particularly on the lower section, is very popular for those who have drawn a permit to fish for the famed Atlantic Salmon and the river features hundreds of natural salmon pools. It is very possible, depending upon the exact timing of the river trip and that year’s particular salmon run, to view these majestic fish swimming throughout the pools while we make our way downstream.

As we near the end of the trip, whitewater continues, although the rapids become somewhat less technical. Opportunities to stop at beautiful locations for photos are ample and include waterfalls and the opportunity for a side-hike may exist depending upon interest level and time available. Aside from The Gorge section, which is nestled into the river valley by high canyon walls, magnificent views of the Chic-Choc Mountains abound and make for excellent photos as a memento of a great canoe trip.

The Bonaventure River Canoe Trip with Smoking Rivers is an excellent option for those with some paddling experience and an adventurous spirit. Conditions on the Gaspe Peninsula can change quickly and may alternate between beautiful, sunny and hot temperatures to cold, rain, and even snow on occasion, all of which add to the rugged beauty of the river corridor. Children, ages 12+ are welcome to join us on this canoe trip and all participants should be in decent physical condition due to the ruggedness of this expedition.

Experience the Bonaventure River with Smoking Rivers

Due to the free-flowing nature of the Bonaventure River, canoe trips are only able to be scheduled in early to mid-June each year, as the snow melt provides a short window of time to enjoy the whitewater and upper sections of the river. Smoking Rivers organizes trips each June on the beautiful Bonaventure River each year and we offer an open trip, as well as the opportunity to organize private canoe trips as well. Trips are most generally organized in a 7-8 day manner, allowing for ample time in the whitewater sections and plenty of time to relax in the beautiful and scenic campsites. For more information regarding dates and itinerary for a Bonaventure River canoe trip, please contact us directly.