Madawaska Kanu Centre News, Blog and Articles

FEATURED

Stefi Van Wijk: Director of Madawaska Kanu Centre

|April 11, 2024

Continuing the legacy of my grandparents’ dream through this business is incredibly special to me.

9 Things You Should Know About Whitewater Canoeing

|March 11, 2024

Whether you’re a beginner looking to dip your paddle into whitewater or an experienced paddler seeking to sharpen your skills, this guide will help you begin your whitewater journey!

7 Great Canoe Trip Guiding Companies

|March 11, 2024

One of the best ways to harness and further refine your canoe tripping skills is by partnering with reputable river guide companies, providing an exhilarating opportunity to explore nature’s wonders while putting your training to the test.

The Fascinating History of Whitewater Kayaking

|November 9, 2023

Whitewater kayaking, an exhilarating water sport that combines adventure, skill, and adrenaline, has a rich and captivating history that dates

A Beautiful Whitewater Paddling Testimonial by Roni Hoffman

News

|February 14, 2023

We recently had a chance to sit down with the lovely, fierce, and adventurous, Roni Hoffman, and oh boy, was

Amazing Women in Kayaking

News

|February 14, 2023

Did you know that whitewater kayaking is the most male dominated paddle sport? In 2019, women made up 36% of the whitewater

Canada’s History with Whitewater Canoeing

History

|February 14, 2023

The Historical Importance of Canoeing The canoe was essential to the First Nations for millennia, specifically here, in what is

What Can You Learn From The River?

News

|February 14, 2023

A Reflection By: Leanne Hennessy In 2003, the late Ojibway Elder/Grandmother and founder of the Mother Earth Water Walkers Josephine

A Sit Down with Willa Mason

News

|February 14, 2023

I recently had a chance to chat with the lovely Willa Mason, one of our long-time staff here at Madawaska

Essay Contest Winner!

News

|February 1, 2023

What Can You Learn By Paddling a River? by Courtney Sinclair When I reflect on what I’ve learned by paddling

Reviews

					Family adventure! When we arrived at the facility, we were greeted with such warmth and hospitality. The staff in the store were so kind and had great vibes. On the actual tour, we were greeted with jokes and clear instructions. Very entertaining and informative. 

We had such an exciting and adventurous adventure with our two children (ages 7 and 4). Our guide Alex was so knowledgeable and approachable. She helped make my kids feel comfortable and excited about rafting. Such a wonderful day on the raft. At times, my 4 year old was afraid of the rapids, but by the end she was smiling and so proud of herself for doing something so adventurous! We were on the raft with another family with an even younger child. I know the website says that even 2 year olds can go on the raft, but just be aware that some of the rapids are a bit intense and your child may be afraid. The great thing is that we felt safe with our helmets and lifejackets, and we were given clear instructions on what to do if we did fall in the river. All in all, it was a fantastic activity, and our most adventurous one as a family to date!
read moreread less
503travellingtania
8/17/2023
					A great week at MKC I have been to MKC many times over the years, and it is a fabulous way to spend a weekend or a week.  I did the 5 day kayaking course with my daughter and granddaughter this year.  The instruction at MKC is some of the best you will find anywhere in the world.  The facilities are beautiful.  It is set in a wooded area of north east Ontario.  August is a great time to attend because the water is warm, and not a lot of bugs.  July may be a bit warmer, , and early September in this area can be very beautiful, and the water is still warm.  May and June in this area can be a bit buggy so come prepared if you are going in the early summer.  

The river is dam fed from a top release dam, so the conditions are consistent and the water warm-- no need for dry suits-- I think the water was around 80 degrees this past week.  The river itself is probably a class 2-3 river, but has some good technical lines for more advanced paddlers.

MKC is great at accommodating all levels of paddlers.  I have gone with paddlers who have never been in white water, or a kayak for that matter, and by the end of the week, they are running the river with confidence.  I have been doing white water kayaking for around 30 years, and I still learn something new every time I go.   More importantly, I have fun with both the family I bring and the staff at the facility.

The business is now being managed by the founder's granddaughter.  It is a third generation business.  Stefi holds true to her grand parents and parents vision of a top notch teaching facility, but at the same time brings her own touches and personality to the operation.  Since Stefi has starting running MKC, I have notice some really nice changes to the facilities, and the food is excellent-- I am vegetarian and really enjoyed the vege dishes.  Lots of good looking meat dishes for those who like them.  The staff all seem to be very happy and excited to be doing what they are doing.  They clearly have a solid team that makes every part of the experience excellent.  

There are various packages available.  You can camp and do your own meals if you are on a budget.  They have bunk style rooms for groups, and individual rooms for individuals and couples.  There are also several screen walled cabins up in the bush that I love-- feels like camping but with a real bed and no wet tent to deal with when you get home.  The accommodations are not fancy, but clean and comfortable.  The chalet where meals are served and where people gather is beautiful.  If you have kayaks (or canoes if that is what you are doing) you can use your own equipment or rent from MKC.   There equipment is top of the line. 

Price wise, I view it as an all inclusive vacation with the added benefit of instruction.  It is a lot less money that you would pay for an all inclusive vacation pretty much anywhere else, and you are building skills and great memories.
read moreread less
Chris C
8/13/2023
					Great experience for young or new rafters. We had an amazing white water experience with our two young daughters. Our guide Mel was so encouraging and fun in spite of the drizzle. Great interaction with our kids and would highly recommend this to families looking for their first rafting adventure.
read moreread less
andrewsJ7602CG
8/24/2023