Ready to trade sidewalks for shorelines?
Come join McGill’s Canoe Camping Frosh!
Spend a weekend paddling through one of Quebec’s most iconic wilderness; La Mauricie National Park. We’ll kick things off at Lac Wapizagonke, where you’ll get a quick intro to canoeing, safety, and all the “how do I not tip this thing over?” essentials. Then we’re off—splitting into groups to explore the lake by canoe and (for the brave / curious) taking on a light portage route through forest trails. Days are a mix of paddling, swimming, shoreline chilling, and wandering conversations that somehow turn into I feel like I’ve known this person forever energy by sunset. Saturday, everyone switches routes so you get the full experience. By Sunday, we ease into a slow morning, pack up camp, and paddle out together one last time. It’s part farewell, part “ I’m glad I met such awesome people,” and 100% the kind of weekend that sticks with you!
Can’t wait to see you there! 🛶
Location: La Mauricie National Park
DAY 1: We will begin our Frosh adventure to La Mauricie National Park, arriving at the shores of Lac Wapizagonke surrounded by forest and open water. After a brief introduction to paddling and safety, we’ll set out in small groups and begin! If it’s your first time out on the water, no worries! One group will enjoy a scenic paddle along Lac Wapizagonke, focusing on building confidence and teamwork on the water. The other group will take on a more challenging portage route toward Baie des Onze Îles, carrying canoes through forest trails and navigating island-filled waterways. After reaching our campsites, spend the afternoon swimming, relaxing, and getting to know your fellow froshies. As evening sets in, we’ll cook dinner together and gather around the campfire for games, laughter, and s’mores before settling in for the first night under the stars.
DAY 2: After breakfast, groups will swap routes, giving everyone the opportunity to experience both paddling and portaging. During lunchtime, we will all reconvene at one campsite and eat some yummy food! Those who remained along Lac Wapizagonke on Day One will now get the opportunity to see the beautiful scenery of Baie des Onze Îles. Meanwhile, the other group will enjoy a more relaxed paddle along Lac Wapizagonke. Midday, pause for lunch at a scenic spot along the route, with time to rest and appreciate the natural beauty around you. Return to camp in the late afternoon, where you can swim, unwind, and reflect on the day’s achievements. In the evening, share another meal together and spend your final night bonding around the campfire through games, music, and conversation.
DAY 3: On our final morning, wake up and take your time enjoying breakfast and breaking down camp. We will then begin the final paddle back to the put-in, working together as a team one last time. We will have lunch at the put-in, all together! Once back, we will regroup and prepare for the journey home.
We can’t wait to meet you!
Funmi & Kibben
2026 Canoeing Frosh Coordinators