“Wild Loon Adventure Company is a Métis owned eco-tourism operator specializing in paddlesport education and all inclusive backcountry canoe trips. Wild Loon was born out [of] wanting to showcase sustainable practices and help people fall in love with outdoor spaces.”

Gear Up: What to Know Before You Go

Getting into paddling doesn’t require expensive equipment, but it does require the right attitude and respect for the environment.

Before heading out, make sure you’ve checked more than just the weather: know your route, let someone know your plan and confirm whether there’s cell service or another way to communicate if something goes wrong.

One of the biggest mistakes beginners make? Not respecting risks or dressing for immersion. Garrett mentions that even in spring sunshine, the water can be dangerously cold:

“If you tip, you will swim and if it’s windy you’ll be freezing cold as the water evaporates. Bring layers and most importantly, wear a properly fitting PFD. It’s the law to have it with you, keep it on your body.”

Safety Gear Checklist (Required by Transport Canada Law)

• Personal flotation devices (PFDs) for all paddlers
• Whistle (manual sound device)
• 15-metre or longer buoyant heaving line
• Bailing device (minimum 750 ml capacity)
  

Recommended Extras

• Communication device (cell or satellite)
• Extra batteries for emergency items
• Emergency foil blanket
• Drinking water

Start Small: Technique and Beginner Tips

If you’re new to paddling, Garrett recommends starting simple - because building confidence is part of the journey.

His Top Three Beginner Tips

• Tell someone your plan: where you’re going and for how long
• Pack more than you think you’ll need, especially warm layers and backup batteries
• Check the forecast and prepare for sudden changes like rain or temperature drops

Trail Snacks Garrett Swears By

• Trail mix
• Chocolate-covered espresso beans

Once you’re on the water, how you paddle matters just as much as what you bring. Garrett stresses the importance of learning basic technique early on in your journey:

“If you learn how to steer your boat you’ll not only feel more relaxed because you’re not constantly correcting your trajectory, you will be able to enjoy your surroundings and be well… Less frustrated.”

Intend on buying your own canoe? It’s important to note that boats aren’t one-size-fits-all. Some are made for lake lounging, others for tackling river rapids or handling big water like Lake Winnipeg. Garrett suggests doing some research before investing:

“Talk to people and read on forums to see what boats fit not only the needs you currently have but your goals down the line.”

Where to Paddle: Garrett’s Picks

Whether you’re looking for a scenic lake paddle or a remote river journey, Garrett has paddled it and he’s got suggestions to match your experience level.

Beginner-Friendly

• Caddy Lake: Paddle through iconic rock tunnels into North and South Cross Lakes (Note: The first tunnel at Caddy Lake is currently closed due to repairs needed. Keep updated here.)
• Jessica Lake: Calm flatwater with an optional portage into Mud Turtle Lake
• Tulabi Falls: Easy car access with portage options along the Bird River

Hidden Gem

• La Barrière Park (La Salle River): An underrated paddle with peaceful, winding waters
  

Garrett says:

“La Barrière Park in La Salle is a very underrated fall paddle. Its accessibility and easy winding river makes for a beautiful way to spend a fall day.”

Next-Level

• Manigotagan River: a great introduction to moving water, with optional portages around Class II rapids
  

“We do… recommend taking a Moving Water course or guided trip to ensure risk mitigation, however, [The Manigotagan] is a great way to get into a 4-6 day trip down a gorgeous river.”

• Hayes River: A remote, biodiverse northern journey to Hudson Bay

“The Hayes River in Northern Manitoba has to be my favourite river of all time… Flora and Fauna are at an all-time high as you make your way to the Hudson Bay and York Factory.”

Culturally Significant

• Little Limestone Lake: A turquoise jewel of northern Manitoba with deep cultural and spiritual meaning

“Before paddling on Little Limestone, consult with Mosakahiken Cree Nation and gain permission as this is a very sacred area and deserves respect both to the land and people.”

Stay Safe on the Water

Manitoba’s waters are beautiful, but they can be unpredictable, especially in spring and fall. Water always wins, so it’s important to treat it with the respect it deserves. Garrett shares simple habits that can keep you safe on the water.

Tips for Paddling Safely

• Stay within a swimmable distance from shore
• Take the inside corners when paddling rivers- these areas move slower and offer better visibility
• Avoid floating logs and river debris, especially in spring when high water pushes wood downstream
• Be mindful of what’s downstream - currents carry you farther than you think

Shoulder Season Paddling

• Wear immersion gear like a wetsuit or drysuit in early spring and late fall
• Watch for floating debris and strong currents
• Dress in layers and pack for a range of temperatures

Plan for Changing Conditions

• Always check the nautical forecast on big bodies of water like Lake Winnipeg
• Pack extra layers, even if it looks clear, weather can change quickly

"Weather always seems to happen when you want it to least."

Paddle with Respect: Leave No Trace & Indigenous Stewardship

Garrett brings an Indigenous perspective to his canoe trips, encouraging paddlers to treat the land with care, not conquest.

“A lot of Indigenous Stewardship and Conservation revolves around the idea that the land is more than just an entity,” says Garrett. “It is as spiritual as you or I, if not even more so. Chang[e] your mentality of treating “nature” like an object to treating it like a person.”

At Wild Loon, conservation is woven into every trip. Guides teach paddlers to care for the land by:

• Reducing single-use plastics
• Practicing Leave No Trace camping
• Respecting the land and Indigenous protocols
  

For Garrett, falling in love with the outdoors is the first step toward protecting it:

“Our goal is to facilitate that moment of falling in love with outdoor spaces. The Land was obviously a space I felt very much myself growing up, and I want to give those opportunities to folks to do the same. If you love something, you’ll want to protect it.”

Try It Yourself

Wild Loon trips are built for adventurers, whether it’s your first paddle or your fiftieth. They’re about safety, connection and those small moments you’ll always remember.

Paddling can change how you see the land and how you see yourself in it. Let the water guide you and like so many before you, fall in love with the wild places that make Manitoba feel like home.