Toronto: Urban Wild Canoe Camp

Join our team of experienced instructors for a week of adventure, learning and discovery as you paddle your way through Toronto’s urban wilderness. Our Urban Wild paddle program promises an unforgettable experience that combines outdoor exploration, skill development, and a deeper connection to one of Canada’s most vibrant cities.

Get ready to explore the heart of Toronto’s waterways via canoe, kayak, and stand up paddleboard. You’ll discover the city’s hidden treasures from a unique perspective.

What to expect 

Each day begins at our base at Don Valley Brickworks Park where you’ll receive instructions and prepare for the day. Then participants will travel by TTC to the site of the adventure.

You’ll explore a different location each day and be introduced to different paddle sports. On the first day, you’ll learn how to paddle and explore the calm waters of secluded Ashbridges Bay. The last day of the program will be spent at Cherry Beach and the Toronto Islands, a chain of 15 islands with scenic views of the city skyline. Together, you and your group will paddle through three rivers in downtown Toronto and enjoy a view of the dynamic metropolis from the water – a whole new perspective!

And that’s not all: On Wednesday night, you’ll have the opportunity to camp out on the Toronto Islands to hone your camping skills and bond with your fellow adventurers.

Area and activities

For a century, Don Valley Brick Works Park was the site of a major brick manufacturer and supplier of buildings throughout Toronto. That changed in 1989 when the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) acquired the site and began restoration work with the City of Toronto in 1995. This involved creating a series of wetlands that provide habitat for aquatic plants and wildlife, and channeling water from nearby Mud Creek through the wetland to filter it naturally before it flows into the Don River and eventually Lake Ontario.

Today, the 200-hectares of wetlands, dry wildflower meadows and forest plant communities create a variety of ecosystem types that provide the ideal setting for Outward Bound Canada’s urban programs, where participants can hike the many nature trails, paddle the Don River and perfect their outdoor skills surrounded by nature in this special area – all within 10 minutes of downtown Toronto and accessible by car, public transit, foot or bike.