Itinerary

The proposed route totals 17 km.
Each kilometer is marked on the right bank.

Approximate duration
5 to 6 hours in low water (generally from July to October)
4 to 5 hours in high water (generally from May to June)

Fast
This river features two class 1 rapids (easy level) and a few whitewater sections.

Mandatory stop
  Kilometer 17 is located at the Accueil Cantin. The landing is on the left bank before the road bridge. The stretch of river below the bridge contains impassable passages (advanced falls and rapids).

An inhabited territory

The river is lined with private land along the entire route. The beaches and quays (right and left banks) are privately owned.

No stopping possible outside the suggested stopping points (below). By landing on these sites, you are unfortunately jeopardizing our relationship of trust with local residents.

Local residents are extraordinary collaborators. In return, we have to show them that we are respectful and that they are right to trust us in this development.

The beach at Camping Etsanha (2 km before the end of the route) is reserved for campers staying there only.

Suggested stop and point of interest

Km 2.5 Delaney Falls: This stopover gives you access to the spectacular Delaney Falls. You can leave your boats on the beach and walk to the falls (500-meter walk only). Dry toilets on site.

Km 3.5 On the water, right from your boat, watch Delaney Falls behind you. It's an enchanting setting!

Km 7.5 Camping de la Vallée: Camping de la Vallée welcomes canoe-campers and also offers a stopover for lunch. There are picnic tables, a sink with water (non-drinking), a dry toilet and a shelter.

Km 8.5 On your left, look out for the impressive Cap Bédard, the highest point on the Falaises trail.

Despite the impossibility of stopping at private beaches, you can take a swim break at several points when the river is at low water. A few sandbars will reveal themselves in the middle of the river.

For lunch, if you don't stop at the Camping de la Vallée, you can float gently and eat on the water, right from your boat. It's a great experience to try!

Eco-responsibility

Listen to nature and what it has to offer. Avoid shouting and note that noisemakers are forbidden.. Noise pollution has a major impact on the natural environment and on the peace and quiet of local residents;

Local residents see several boats a day. Avoid calling out to them and disturbing them. Respect their privacy;

There are no garbage cans on the course, only at the landing stage. Bring back ALL your waste without exception. Glass containers are prohibited on the river;

Visit dogs are not eligible;

Visit inflatable boats are prohibited with the exception of paddle boards;

Forbidden fires;

Stop only at the suggested stops;

If you have a sanitary emergency at any time other than the proposed rest stops, bring back your soiled toilet paper.

Your safety, your duty

The river is not patrolled. You are responsible for your own safety and that of your peers at all times.

Wearing the flotation jacket Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is mandatory;

This river features several communication and access difficulties in case of emergency evacuation. The road remains accessible on foot via the left bank along the entire route;

Down the river with a minimum of two boats and double your vigilance before the rapids;

Stay away from ice jams (dead trees near the surface or submerged banks);

Drinking river water is not recommended, as it is unfit for human consumption;

You accept the inherent risks such as drowning, capsizing, hypothermia, fractures, cuts, etc.

In the rapids sections

Lower your weight in the boat to be more stable (knees at the bottom);

Observe, slow down, communicate and keep your boat parallel to the current. A canoe perpendicular to the obstacles is much more likely to capsize;

If your canoe overturns, stay calm. Move away from the boat to avoid getting caught between a rock and your canoe. Adopt a defensive swimming position (on your back, feet facing downstream) and try to retrieve your boat only when you're back in calm water. If your boat gets stuck in the middle of the river or is difficult to retrieve, swim to the left bank to call for help.

Canoe-camping

Campfire wood is sold at the Accueil Shannahan.
You can carry it in your canoe;

The campsite is located halfway along the route. There is a dock on the right bank between Km 7 and 8. A sign reads "Camping de la Vallée";

The sites are not numbered, so the first to arrive will be the first to choose their pitch for the night;

There's one group site and several smaller ones. Each has a picnic table and fire pit. (Fires are permitted only in these areas and only on the entire course);

The lean-to is a covered cooking area. No tents are allowed, even in the rain, as this is a communal area.

As a storm approaches

Look out for the signs

• Dark skies
• Presence of lightning
• Wind gusts

If you have less than 15 seconds between lightning and thunder, return to shore without delay;

• DURING A STORM:
• Stay away from water sources. Water is an excellent conductor.
• Get to shore as quickly as possible, but don't get in the water;
• Avoid taking shelter under trees or other equipment that may attract lightning;
• In the forest, seek protection under a dense canopy of shrubs or small trees;
• The best position to adopt is to curl up on the floor (legs bent over, hands on knees, body and head bent forward).

Respect our employees

Rinse your cans before placing them in the bottom of your rental boat. This will help us control unpleasant odours;

If you have rented a boat, you must be back at the Accueil Cantin before 6pm. Late fees may apply.

The Vallée Bras-du-Nord team thanks you for your invaluable cooperation and wishes you an excellent trip down the river!