SAULT STE. MARIE WALKING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Paddling Baawaating: Indigenous Art and Stories on the Water
An Indigenous-led, 4-hour journey around Baawaating’s waters and islands that pairs paddling with storytelling, cedar tea, fire and cultural context—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Paddling Baawaating: Indigenous Art and Stories on the Water.
Explore the waters and islands of Baawaating on an Indigenous-led guided journey that weaves together storytelling, history, scenic viewpoints, fire and cedar tea. The outing centers on cultural insights—traditional travel routes, the nearby locks, Indigenous connections to this place—and a path toward reconciliation along one of Canada’s great waterways.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Indigenous-led storytelling on the water
The trip places oral history and cultural context at the center of the route, with guides sharing perspectives on traditional travel routes, local connections to place, and the present-day path toward reconciliation.
Paddling among islands and viewpoints
The experience travels Baawaating’s waters and islands, stopping at scenic viewpoints that frame both natural landscape and the human history tied to these shores.
Fire, cedar tea and food sharing
Onshore pauses include communal elements—fire, cedar tea and food sharing—that ground the outing in ceremony and hospitality while deepening cultural exchange.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
Over roughly four hours you move between water and shore, alternating quiet stretches of paddling with focused stops for storytelling, views and small ceremonies. The rhythm is deliberate: learn about traditional routes and local history from Indigenous guides, warm around a fire with cedar tea, and experience the islands and locks that define this stretch of water.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits—and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The experience lasts approximately 4 hours.
Be prepared for uneven natural terrain and variable weather—bring sturdy footwear, weather-appropriate layers, sun protection and anything you need for being outdoors for several hours.
Advise the operator in advance of mobility, dietary or accessibility requests so accommodations can be explored.
All ages are welcome; children 16 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The experience is recommended for ages 8+ to best engage with the storytelling.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Paint & Paddle experience?
The outing runs approximately 4 hours.
Who can attend? Are children allowed?
All ages are welcome. Children 16 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian; the trip is recommended for ages 8 and up to fully enjoy the storytelling and experience.
Do I need to be physically fit?
Guests should be comfortable walking on uneven natural terrain and spending time outdoors in varying weather conditions.
Can the operator accommodate dietary or mobility needs?
Yes—please advise the operator in advance of mobility needs, dietary needs, or accessibility requests so accommodations can be explored.
What will we do onshore?
Onshore pauses include communal elements such as a fire, cedar tea and food sharing alongside storytelling and cultural discussion.
What should I wear?
Dress for variable weather and natural terrain—sturdy shoes, layered clothing and sun/rain protection are recommended.