It’s the sense of history that draws most visitors to the French River. The moment their paddles dip into the same waterway used by the great Voyageurs of the North West Company the imagination runs wild. It’s a feeling of kinship with these great early explorers – not that lightweight Kevlar canoes match or even compare to their 36-foot birchbark canot du maitre – but the prospect of adventure is identical.

Guests of the Lodge at Pine Cove can experience this adventure and the rich history of the French River by day and enjoy the comfort of a private cottage at night. Leave from our beach or let us drop you off at your put-in spot and paddle the Canadian Shield, were you will find a world of wilderness, magnificence and endless lakes and rivers. Some of the finest canoeing and sea kayaking waters in the world are in our backyard. Explore, swim, fish, camp on an island, run a rapid and return to a luxurious meal and cottage at the end of the day. We will supply equipment, instruction, route planning and guides in any combination you wish.

Hear the stories

Toni Harting – author of French River, Canoeing the River of the Stick-Wavers – will take you on a visual and musical journey down the French River. During his presentation you will see the entire waterway and learn of the Voyageurs, explorers and other fascinating history of the French.

Voyageur Canoeing

Truly re-live the the days of the voyageurs by paddling a 36-foot Montreal Canoe. A guided trip down the river in this magnificent vessel will provide you with the unique opportunity to feel the same currents as the voyageurs did so long ago. Day trips can be had right from the Lodge at Pine Cove.

Visit the Lodge at Pine Cove – www.frenchriver.com