Madawaska River

This route takes you along a picturesque section of the Madawaska River, passing by cottages, sections of undeveloped shoreline, and the hamlets of Springtown and Burnstown. The Madawaska River originates in Algonquin Park flowing hundreds of kilometres until it reaches the Ottawa River. While paddling keep an eye out for King Fishers, Great Blue Herons and other wildlife. The natural flow of the river (towards Burnstown) is such that little strenuous effort is required. However, if you decide to retrace your route, it is recommended you time it during "non-peak" demand for electricity.



The current will increase as Ontario Hydro allows more water to flow through the Barrett Chute dam, several miles upstream and at the head of Calabogie Lake. An excellent shuttle pickup point is Burnstown Beach. Canoe downstream in the northeasterly direction. Be careful as the river moves swiftly near the park. At 4.5 km you will pass the village of Springtown (on your left) and later (at 6 km) go under the Springtown bridge. Traveling an additional 6 km downriver will bring you to Burnstown.

You will travel through the old bridge pylons, then under the elevated Burnstown bridge. Shortly after the Burnstown bridge you will be at the take-out point - Burnstown Beach, which is located on your left. There are washrooms on=site and adequate parking.

     Know somebody who might be interested in this trail? Share it with them!

---

REVIEW

Have you traveled this trail? If you have any corrections or new information you'd like to send us, we'd love your input. Also, any photos or videos you may have taken of your adventures on this or any other trail are welcome as well. Be a part of our trail community!

    

---

COMMENT & SHARE

Use your Facebook account to comment on this trail and share your experiences below.

---

At the Ontario Trails Council, we do our best to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the information we provide on the site. Please remember however, that some of the information you'll find here has been provided by third parties; we can't take responsibility for that information or make any guarantees as to its quality or accuracy. It's also important to remember that while something you read here may have been correct at the time it was posted, Seasons change and the trails change with them! Contact the trail manager or local weather office when planning a trip to avoid surprises, like poor conditions or trail closures.

Please note that when you send us images, you give us the right to use them as we see fit, without limitation or compensation, to promote the Ontario Trails Council.

This site is supported by a grant from the Ontario Ministry of Health Promotion Active 2010 Recreation Program, The Ministry of Natural Resources, The Ontario Trillium Foundation and trail users like you!