Missinipe-Nistowiak-Stanley
About this Canoe Route
Missinipe-Nistowiak-Stanley
Explore ancient aboriginal rock painting, shoot class I/III rapids, and stand next to the breathtaking Nistowiak Falls, Robertson Falls, and Twin Falls!
This trip typically starts at the boat launch in Missinipe on Otter Lake, which is located right next to the Missinipe campground. From there, you will paddle into Otter Lake and head east towards Robertson Falls. When you reach the top of Robertson Falls, you can access the portage on the left side of the falls. A composting outhouse can be found at this portage. From Robertson Falls, you'll paddle across the small body of water over to Twin Falls Lodge. From there, you will portage across the lodge and make your way to the bottom of Twin Falls.
After passing Twin Falls, you'll paddle south-east on Mountain Lake towards the town of Stanley Mission. At this point on the route you'll want to start looking for a campground if you didn't decide to stay at one of the falls. There are many small and large islands on Mountain Lake that make great camping spots.
When passing Stanley Mission, you'll paddle towards the historical Holy Trinity Anglican Church which is located north-east of Stanley Mission, across the lake. From there, you will begin to find your way towards Stanley Rapids where one of the route's most popular campgrounds can be located on the smaller set of rapids (Little Stanley). Portages can be found on both sets of rapids (Big Stanley/Little Stanley) with a compostable outhouse at the Little Stanley campground.
Both sets of rapids can be difficult to traverse, and should only be attempted by those with experience. From Stanley Rapids, you will cross Drope Lake and make your way through a couple of bays until you get to Frog Narrows, a class I/II swift water area. There aren't much for large waves in this area, but keep an eye out for whirlpools!
After passing Frog Narrows, you'll make your way across Nistowiak Lake to Jim's Camp at the bottom of the Nistowiak Falls rapids. To visit the falls you need to go through the camp, and find the trail at the south side of the camp that leads to Nistowiak Falls.
To end this trip, people typically book a shuttle pickup from Stanley Mission. Contact us about our Nistowiak Falls canoe shuttle service. Additionally, Montreal River Outpost can provide canoe rentals for this classic adventure!
Canoe Trip Photo Gallery
Missinipe-Nistowiak-Stanley
Book Your Canoe Trip Shuttle Online
Found the Northern Saskatchewan canoe route for your next adventure? Make sure you have all the gear you need! Our online booking system allows you to reserve your canoe rentals, canoe shuttles, and all other outdoor gear you may need on your Northern Saskatchewan canoe trip.
Canoe Rentals
Our specialty. We have Esquif Prospector canoes, a popular choise - and Kisseynew Canoes for those looking for something a little more luxurious.
Shuttles
Get to the start of your trip, or picked up at the end. With room for multiple canoes, all your equipment, and your crew too!
Kayaks, SUPs, Tubes
If canoeing isn't your thing, we have more options to explore the waters. Rent a Kayak, Stand-up Paddle Board, or a personal flotation tube!
Camping Equipment
Sometimes you need a little extra something, or maybe you forgot it at home! No worries, we got you covered with a range of camping equipment for rent.