Wabakimi
Provincial Park

Wabakimi Provincial Park is a vast wilderness in Northwestern Ontario, covering over 8,920 square km (5,542 mi) of interconnected rivers, lakes, and boreal forest. Known as a premier destination for paddling, the park offers unmatched opportunities for canoeists to explore its pristine waterways, abundant wildlife, and remote beauty. It is also home to the world’s largest preserve for several hundred threatened woodland caribou.

Wabakimi is remote, with no direct road access. The closest major town is Thunder Bay, about 250 km (155 mi) southeast. Visitors often travel to Armstrong Station, accessible via Highway 527 or VIA Rail’s Canadian route, as a launch point for park access. From Armstrong, entry is typically by floatplane, train, or shuttle services arranged by local outfitters. Canoeists frequently access the park through water routes that connect with adjacent Crown land, allowing for multi-day trips into the interior.

Wabakimi’s network of over 2,000 km (1,242 mi) of canoe routes is its main draw. Paddlers can follow ancient Indigenous and fur trade routes, navigating tranquil lakes, winding rivers, and occasional rapids. The park offers trips of varying lengths and difficulty, from short excursions to weeks-long expeditions. Many visitors rely on Armstrong-based outfitters for canoe rentals, detailed route planning, and shuttle services to access remote entry points.

For those seeking a base to combine paddling with comfort, fly-in lodges on nearby lakes provide direct access to Wabakimi’s waterways. These lodges, reachable by floatplane, often include guided paddling or fishing trips, accommodations, and meals. Whether setting out on a self-guided canoe trip or staying at a fly-in lodge, Wabakimi offers an unparalleled paddling experience in the heart of the boreal wilderness.