Salmon River, Ontario

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The Salmon River is located near Marmora, Ontario, about two hours northeast of Toronto. It’s a Class 2/3 river for whitewater kayakers and canoers, and like many of the rivers in the area it is generally only paddleable in spring runoff. Salmon River is one of the earliest rivers in the area that becomes ice free, and usually the flows last the longest on this river. It is a less demanding run than some of the other Hwy #7 runs. The levels range, with no maximum flow.

Location:

It is located a short drive from Marmora just north of Tamworth off Hwy 41. It is best to drop off a shuttle vehicle at the take out on the way to the put in. The take out is approx 5 km north of Tamworth. Turn left on Woodcocks Mill Rd. (indicated on the map here) and continue to the bridge. The put in is located down County Rd. 15 approx another 5km and make a left at the big white campsite sign. Drive in till the turn around and park.

The River:

There are some nice class 2 warm up rapids at the start of the river. The first significant drop on the river is a class 3 double drop rapid with a small hole at the bottom. That can be easily punched. It is best to scout / walk this rapid on the right.

The second major rapid is a long semi canyon run. You will know when you get to this rapid as the river does a quick left then right turn. Hop out on river right for best scouting and walking options. The water on this rapid gets funneled down between the two shores and makes a funky curling wave that can shoot you in to the river right rock shore if you are not paying attention. There is a long run out to this rapid as well and several less intimidating spots to put in further down this rapid.

The last rapid that warrants a mention is a small ledge rapid that drops off and can sometimes create a very sticky hole. This rapid is right on a left turn in the river and will sneak up fast if you are not paying attention. Both sides are easy to walk and scout from. Safety is best set up on river left.

There are several smaller class 2 to 3 stuff along this river as well and makes for a nice warm up run or great first time spring run for paddler’s not quite use to the weather. At higher level a small but friendly play wave appears near the bottom of this run. Stop and get some surfs in because the take out is just around the corner.

Note: at the take out keep an eye on the river right side for your vehicles. If the river is high the water can be flowing quite fast under the bridge and there is not enough room for a kayak to fit under. It is best to take a look at when you drop your car off. The take out is on river right in a large eddy.

Other area activities:

The Salmon is one of the rivers included in Mackfest.

This entry needs more detail on:

• nearby accommodation
• where to find water levels
  
• what those water levels mean to this river
  
• what the river looks like at various levels.
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