Seal River Google Map.png
Seal River Google Map.png

Seal River, MB

from $60.00

What’s included:

  • Laminated waterproof maps

  • Description and route overview

  • Map legend & user guide

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What’s included:

  • Laminated waterproof maps

  • Description and route overview

  • Map legend & user guide

What’s included:

  • Laminated waterproof maps

  • Description and route overview

  • Map legend & user guide

  • The Seal River is a Heritage River which begins at Shethanei Lake. Most paddlers fly into Taboule Lake and paddle into the adjoining Shethanei Lake, however it is possible to extend the trip by paddling in from the south-west towards Taboule. The Seal travels through the boreal forest as well as the transitional subarctic ecosystem known as the Land and of Little Sticks. Its Heritage River designation ensures that it remains the largest undammed river in northern Manitoba and protects the river for generations of paddlers to come. It is an amazing wilderness river with few visitors each year. Paddlers of this river will pass through sections of muskeg, lakes, and bog, as well as seeing towering sand eskers, the boulder-riden Hudson Bay estuary, and polar bears and barren-ground caribou in their natural habitats. The river’s estuary on Hudson Bay is the calving and feeding grounds for beluga whales. Harbour seals, which give the river its name, can be found up to 200 km upstream from Hudson Bay.

  • Expert

  • 260 km; 25-30 days

    • Large lakes and wind require careful navigation and weather reading for safe crossings.

    • Multiple C3 rapids, several Falls and C4/C5 rapids. Portages available around the majority of the obstacles.

    • Campsites and portages are rustic and not professionally maintained.

    • This is an isolated region with no cell reception. All paddlers should bring a satellite-enabled communication device.

    • Polar bears may be encountered along the last 130km of the river. Paddlers should be vigilant, bring a shotgun, and be trained in its use.

    • DO NOT paddled into Hudson Bay; its tidal flats pose a major challenge and danger as it is also the hunting ground for polar bears awaiting the return of winter and sea ice.

  • Access: Tadoule Lake can be reached by charter flight from Winnipeg, or paddling up from the southwest.

    Egress: A boat shuttle can be booked from the river delta to Churchill, MB. Helpfully a cabin has been built at the Delta for paddlers awaiting pick up. Plan for pickup delays as weather and fog are unpredictable.
    Paddlers should NOT attempt to paddle to Churchill. There is no road from Churchill, however a train or flight can be booked from this point.