Freshwater Adventures in Gaspésie

Go Canoeing, Kayaking, Canyoning or Snorkelling in Lakes and Rivers

Home to 1400 km of crystal-clear rivers as well as many lakes and waterfalls, Gaspésie invites you to enjoy a multitude of freshwater activities. Canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkelling, canyoning… there are countless options for all skill levels whether or not you are accompanied by a guide.

Drift along the Bonaventure or Matapédia rivers, or paddle through stronger currents for an added challenge. In the Matapédia area, you can also go canoe camping on some rivers. If you opt for canyoning, you will follow the flow of a river through narrow gorges or ravines with cascades, an active way to discover the hidden gems in this territory.

Lakes provide an equally immersive experience and are perfect for outings on your own. Many are accessible in wildlife reserves or parks.

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Tips for Planning Your Freshwater Adventures

Discover Some of the Best Freshwater Activities in Gaspésie

Nature Aventure Matapédia Kayaking and Canoeing

Credit: CHOK Images

Canoe or Kayak Camping

Nature Aventure offers you the opportunity to set off on a camping expedition along various rivers in a canoe or kayak, either with a guide or on your own. Trips range in length from 2 to 5 days depending on your skill level and are offered on seven different rivers. All equipment is provided, and a shuttle will take you to your launch site.
Eskamer Aventure Sainte-Anne-des-Monts (Tourelle) Canyoning

Credit: Dany Vachon

Canyoning

You can go canyoning in two places in Gaspésie: near Sainte-Anne-des-Monts and near Gaspé. This activity includes ziplining, rappelling down waterfalls, jumping into deep pools and exploring rock faces. For a gentler approach, opt for hiking, swimming and sliding down natural waterslides or a customized canyoning route.
Cime Aventure Bonaventure Kayaking and Canoeing

Credit: Dylan Page

River Trips

Cime Aventure offers canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and inflatable rafts for rent along the shores of the Bonaventure River. Nature Aventure also organizes day trips on various rivers in the Matapédia area. Depending on your level of experience and how long you want to be on the water, a variety of routes are proposed.
Réserve faunique de Matane Saint-René-de-Matane Wildlife Reserves

Credit: Mathieu Dupuis

Lake Activities

In Gaspésie, many lakes invite you to enjoy non-motorized activities on your own. Bring your own equipment or rent a stand-up paddleboard, canoe, kayak or pedal boat. The Matapédia, Malcom and Cascapédia lakes as well as those found in wildlife reserves offer peaceful spots to paddle at your own pace and soak up the surrounding scenery.
Salmons

Credit: Manuel AÑÒ - ProdAqua

Snorkelling with Atlantic Salmon

Nature Aventure offers guided snorkelling packages to swim with Atlantic salmon in various rivers in the Matapédia area. Equipment is provided, including a wetsuit, mask, snorkel, life jacket and more.