NORTH BAY CANOE FIELD GUIDE
Sunset on the Mattawa: Paddle Your Own Canoe to Talon Chutes
A three-hour guided paddle from Pimisi Bay along Lake Talon and the Mattawa River to the base of Talon Chutes, led by an experienced guide who interprets the area's natural and cultural history.
Sunset on the Mattawa: Paddle Your Own Canoe to Talon Chutes.
This guided sunset canoe tour traces one of Northern Ontario’s most scenic waterways: from the sheltered, calm shores of Pimisi Bay into the raw, rocky reaches of Lake Talon and down toward the narrowing mouth of the Mattawa River and Talon Chutes. Expect shifting light, the call of loons, windswept pines on cliff-edged shorelines, and a guide who will point out local flora, fauna and the river’s human history as you travel in your own boat during the most peaceful hour of the day.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
From sheltered bay to rugged north shore
Begin in the calm of Pimisi Bay to get comfortable in your craft, then paddle along Lake Talon’s rugged north shore—rocky cliffs and windswept pines line the route and sightings of loons are likely as you move toward the Mattawa River.
Interpretation on the river
An experienced Nature Bound guide accompanies the group, navigating the waters and sharing stories and insights into the natural and cultural history as you move toward the narrowing mouth of the Mattawa River and the destination at Talon Chutes.
Sunset at Talon Chutes
The tour culminates at the base of Talon Chutes, where the group relaxes, explores the waterfall, and enjoys a scenic snack before returning along the same rewarding route at dusk.
What the day feels like
What the outing feels like
The flow of the paddle moves from quiet, sheltered water to broader lake strokes and then the tightening focus of the river mouth. The guide sets pace and narrative—teaching, pointing out wildlife, and keeping the group aligned—then the rhythm pauses at Talon Chutes for a short walk to the base, a snack and a moment to take in the falls before retracing the route by paddle under evening light.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most from this trip — and who should check with the operator first.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring a filled reusable water bottle, snacks or a light lunch, weather-appropriate layered quick-dry clothing (no cotton), hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, footwear that can get wet (e.g., strapped water shoes), a dry bag or ziplock for valuables, camera or phone in a waterproof case, any personal medications (EpiPen, inhaler), and a small towel or cloth.
The tour lasts approximately three hours; meet at the Pimisi Rest Stop/Picnic Area in Calvin, ON (P0H 2E0) for launch and briefing.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The guided sunset canoe tour runs for approximately three hours.
Where do we meet?
Meeting is at the Pimisi Rest Stop/Picnic Area in Calvin, ON (P0H 2E0).
Do I need to bring my own boat?
Yes — the tour is conducted in participants’ own boats; the description specifies that you join the guided paddle in your own boat.
What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a filled water bottle, snacks or a light lunch, quick-dry layered clothing, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, wet-capable footwear, a dry bag for valuables, camera/phone in a waterproof case, personal medications and a small towel.
Will there be a lot of walking?
Only a short walk is required to reach the base of Talon Chutes; most of the outing is paddling.
What will the guide provide?
The guide navigates the route and shares stories and interpretation of the area’s natural and cultural history as you paddle toward Talon Chutes.