Pukaskwa Coast Expedition – Michipicoten River to Hattie Cove
Come experience the most remote coastal wilderness area on Lake Superior!
This route covers approximately 175 km over 9 days, from the mouth of the Michipicoten River to Hattie Cove in Pukaskwa National Park. It is the most remote and wild coastline on all of the Great Lakes.
This exceptionally remote and exposed coastline lies far from the highway and demands a particularly careful eye on the weather. We will be completely self-sufficient, making daily decisions as a group about whether it is safe to paddle. Along the way, you will encounter stunning cliffed headlands, powerful waterfalls, and incredible beach campsites. We will also pass by ancient Pukaskwa pits—relics of a distant past.
The first half of the trip is all crown land and then we will enter Pukaskwa National Park. This wild coast is a place like no other—a vast, untamed wilderness where boreal forest meets the rugged, rocky shores of Lake Superior. It’s the only wilderness national park in Ontario and one of the most untouched and pristine landscapes in Canada. Towering granite cliffs, ancient cobble beaches, and dense spruce and pine forests define this dramatic coastline. As we paddle through this remarkable landscape, we’ll be immersed in the raw beauty and solitude that make this section of the coast so special.
This area is steeped in cultural history. One of the highlights of the journey is Otter Island, home to a historic lighthouse that has guided mariners for over a century. The lighthouse, perched atop rugged cliffs, stands as a sentinel over the wild waters of Lake Superior—a reminder of the region’s rich maritime heritage.
We will also pass the Pukaskwa Depot, which once acted as a base of operations for logging industries along the north shore of Lake Superior and a vital link to the outside world. Commercial fishing also has deep roots in this area, with families making a living off the lake’s abundant waters for generations. Though much of that industry has faded, remnants of fish camps and old structures still echo stories of hard work and perseverance along this stretch of Lake Superior.
Wildlife thrives in this untouched environment. Keep an eye out for bald eagles soaring overhead, river otters playing along the shore, and even the occasional black bear foraging near the water’s edge. At night, with no light pollution, the sky comes alive with a breathtaking canopy of stars—sometimes even the shimmering northern lights.
We will plan to paddle 20–30 km per day on average when the weather is favourable. This pace allows us to get ahead of schedule, leaving room for at least one layover day to account for weather or just slow down and have some more relaxed paddling days toward the end of the trip.
This expedition is self-catered, so you will need to bring your own food, cooking equipment, and camping gear. Kayak rental gear is available at a special expedition rate.
What’s Included:
- Two qualified and experienced guides
- Dinner and camping the night before at the beautiful Naturally Superior Adventures Rock Island Lodge
- all campsite permit fees
- vehicle shuttle service
- A variety of small dry bags for group gear and food
- Topographic maps of the local area
- Expedition 1st Aid Kit & Repair Kit
- Emergency Communication (VHF Radio & Inreach)
- Group Kitchen Kit (If you have your own special large mug, bowl or spork you are welcome to bring it)
- Group sanitization, kitchen cleaning kit & Toilet kit
- Some extra stuff you might have forgot
Dates:
July 30th to August 7th 2025
Please email info@suchaniceday.com to inquire and we can send you our pre-trip information package.
Dates don’t work for you but you are interested in a trip like this? Please get in touch and we are happy to discuss how we can make it work for you.
