Cat River, ON

from $104.00

What’s included:

  • Thirteen 11×17 inch laminated annotated waterproof maps

  • Description and route overview

  • Map legend & user guide

Route Connections: St. Joseph Lake (Alces Lake), Slate Falls, Bamaji Lake, Birch Lake, Swain Post, Woman River, Bruce Lake

Map Set:

What’s included:

  • Thirteen 11×17 inch laminated annotated waterproof maps

  • Description and route overview

  • Map legend & user guide

Route Connections: St. Joseph Lake (Alces Lake), Slate Falls, Bamaji Lake, Birch Lake, Swain Post, Woman River, Bruce Lake

  • The Cat river is characterized by its isolation and remoteness, making it a destination for adventurers seeking solitude and unspoiled nature. Although called Cat River, it is better described as a lake system connected via short river sections of rapids or waterfalls. The majority of the rapids are runnable at all water levels, however some water obstacles may be too big or rocky to safely descent, or require portaging at lower water levels. Canadian Shield ecology means lots of exposed rock for spacious campsites and warm sunbathing. Many fishing lodges are found throughout the Cat River system, and you're likely to meet friendly boaters on these fly-in lakes. This area within the range of southern woodland caribou herds.The Cat river connects to a variety of water routes and can extend further north, west, or east. This route leaves the Cat River after Birch Lake and returns to road access south of Red Lake, Ontario, with 4 days descending the Woman River. Due to it's isolation, this route is appropriate for moderately experienced groups.

  • Moderate.

    This is a very remote location requiring fly-in emergency access.

  • 400km; 30+ days

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

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

    • Campsites and portages are rustic and not professionally maintained.

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

    • No road access along the river. Many fly-in lodges and communities along the route provide established evacuation points.

    • Black bears and wolverines are present throughout.

  • Access: Route can be accessed at St. Joseph's Lake by car or by hydroplane throughout. The route can be extended fromt he south by paddling north through St. Raphael Provincial Park - there are several road access points in this park.

    Egress: Egress points are available throughout the route by floatplane. From Bruce lake, there are several car pick up points along highway 105. The Route can be continued into Lake Winnipeg. At which point paddlers can head south to Winnipeg, or north towards the Hayes River and Hudson Bay.