Rainbow Country Travel Association

Welcome to French River Area

The French River is an ancient river system surrounded by dramatic landscape sculpted by the ice age glaciers. These glaciers left behind cliffs, ridges, shoals and thousands of islands, which gives this vast water system its unique topography.

Located approximately 320 km (200 miles) north of Toronto, the French River is best described as a 125 km (80 miles) long series of island dotted lakes connected by rapids and falls that gently lower the river a total of 20 meters (60 feet) as it flows from Lake Nipissing, it’s headwaters, to Georgian Bay on Lake Huron. With this much water, the French River is considered a boating and canoeing paradise with an excellent selection of experiences to suit every taste.

Follow the route of the “original visitors” – the Route of the Voyageurs! These historic rivers and waterways opened Canada to the world and today the world still visits this truly spectacular setting.

For over 50 years the French River has enjoyed a well deserved reputation for its quality of fishing experiences. Ontario’s most sought after game fish can be found in these waters. Walleye, Northern Pike, Large and Small Mouth Bass even Trout in a couple of the area lakes. Of course there are pan fish such as Perch, Sunfish and Rock Bass. If you are looking for a challenge then this is the river for you. Home to the elusive Muskier, mighty Sturgeon, large Channel Catfish and Whitefish, there is a species for every taste and skill level. On you own or with the help of a guide you will be out on the water enjoying a true Canadian vacation tradition.

The areas vast array of lodging from remote camping to full services lodges and everything in between will provide a great base to discover and explore the timeless beauty of the French and Pickerel River systems.

Get off the beaten path and explore Grundy Provincial Park, with its great beaches, challenging hiking trails and, of course camping!

Stop into and discover the French River Provincial Park Visitor’s Centre located near Highway 69 where it crosses the historic French River and Gorge. The new center is part of the Ontario Living Legacy/Great Lakes Heritage Coast plan. Explanative exhibits and educational events related to the cultural and natural resources of the river.

If heights are not your issue, you’ll want to cross the new French River Bridge, Canada's largest cable supported snowmobile bridge. It has a span of over 300 feet and rises to 50 feet above the French River’s water level to provide visitors a bird’s eye view.

If you listen closely you can almost hear the songs of the Voyageurs!

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