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ABOUT FOREST THE CANOE

Professional Adventurers

Forest The Canoe is your gateway to unforgettable outdoor experiences in the rugged beauty of Northern Ontario. Based in Goulais River, just north of Sault Ste. Marie, we offer guided nature tours, backcountry camping trips, and seasonal adventures that make it easy for everyday outdoor enthusiasts to connect with the land, the water, and each other.

We embrace all the “True North” has to offer—windswept shorelines, towering pines, foggy mornings on the lake, and the joy of sitting around a campfire after a day well spent. At the heart of it all is our belief in creating meaningful connections between people, place, and the natural world through interpretation, education, and shared experience.

Whether you're a curious first-timer or a seasoned camper looking to unplug and go deeper, we’ll meet you where you’re at—with approachable guides, thoughtfully designed trips, and a big welcome into our community.

We’re not here to summit mountains or chase records (unless the record is who can pack the best camp snacks). We’re here to make the outdoors feel accessible, authentic, and deeply rewarding. Our trips are thoughtfully guided, our experiences are rooted in respect for the land and local history, and our vibe is always welcoming.

We work closely with organizations like Algoma Highlands Conservancy, and Lake Superior Watershed Conservancy, and we’re proud to be part of a growing community of guides, educators, and nature lovers who care deeply about this place.

Whether you're booking a half-day kayak tour on Lake Superior, joining a multi-day camping trip under the northern lights, or just looking for the best route to paddle with your dog, we’re here to help you feel at home outside.

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Lead Guide Ryan Walker

RYAN WALKER

Interpretive Guide & Owner

Ryan Walker is a Sault College Adventure Recreation and Parks Technician graduate. He is a certified Interpretive Guide through Interpretive Guides Association and has Paddle Canada certifications in canoeing and kayaking. Ryan is also a Wilderness First Responder and Wilderness First Aid Instructor. Ryan loves identifying plants and animals and is always willing to share nature nuggets. Be sure to ask him about the Manitoba Maple.

Guides and Owners Ryan and Shana

SHANA SHIPPERBOTTOM

Interpretive Guide & Owner

From Girl Guide to Interpretive Guide, Shana has been wandering the woods since she was a small child and spent time camping all over Canada. Having worked in social services for over 15 years, she fully understands the importance and healing properties of nature. Shana also works for Parks Canada as an Interpretation Officer and speaks both English and French.  Whether in a canoe or on trail, her upbeat nature will keep you smiling.

Guide Mason

MASON

Lover of winter

Mason is an adventure partner that can pull her own weight plus her owner Ryan's weight and more! She is named after famous Canadian canoeist and conservationist Bill Mason and lives up to her name as an awesome paddling companion. Winter is her favourite season and she gets all her energy once the snow starts flying. Mason loves helping out on tours - so let us know if you want her to join.

WHY CHOOSE
FOREST THE CANOE?

Adventuring with the Walkerbottoms

CERTIFIED INTERPRETIVE GUIDES

Vibrant members of Interpretive Guides Association

QUALITY GEAR

Canadian-sourced gear whenever  possible

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WILDERNESS

FIRST AID
CERTIFIED

Current

Wilderness First Aid &

Tour Operator Insurance
for safer excursions

UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES

Meaningful & memorable connections with nature

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EXPLORE ALL THE BEAUTY

OUR REGION HAS TO OFFER

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Algoma Country logo
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©2020 by Forest The Canoe. 

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