Looking for a quiet, peaceful spot to launch your kayak in the Niagara Region? The Welland River might be the perfect spot for you!
A gravel launch is available at the Wellandport Community Centre and Park, allowing public access to the Welland River, which is known as Chippewa Creek.
Our Recommended Trip
Put In / Take Out:
Wellandport Community Centre and Park, 5042 Canborough Rd, Smithville, ON. L0R 2A0. There is a long driveway that leads behind the community centre and into a looping road with 2 small and one medium sized parking lot. There is a gravel boat launch.
Wellandport Community Centre and Park, 5042 Canborough Rd, Smithville, ON. L0R 2A0. There is a long driveway that leads behind the community centre and into a looping road with 2 small and one medium sized parking lot. There is a gravel boat launch.
Trip Length:
The Welland River is over 50 km long. Because it’s an easy up and back paddle, you can make this trip as short or as long as you would like. We chose to head left from the launch (shown below), and paddled up about 6.5 km, making for a 13 km round trip in approximately 3 to 4 hours. If you choose to launch to your right instead, the same distance would take you to the Chippewa Creek Conservation Area (shown second). We will try that route another day.
The Welland River is over 50 km long. Because it’s an easy up and back paddle, you can make this trip as short or as long as you would like. We chose to head left from the launch (shown below), and paddled up about 6.5 km, making for a 13 km round trip in approximately 3 to 4 hours. If you choose to launch to your right instead, the same distance would take you to the Chippewa Creek Conservation Area (shown second). We will try that route another day.
The Welland River runs over 50 km, but you can make your trip as short or long as you want. We set out to the left of the launch.
Another option, going right out of the launch, will take you over to Chippawa Creek Conservation Area.
Cost: there were no admission or launch fees.
Degree of Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate. The Welland River is deep and slow moving, and is a gentle paddle. The only major challenge is that with steep muddy banks, it can be hard to get in and out of your kayak. This isn’t a problem at this launch, but do be aware that spots to get in and out along your trip will be hard to find. Higher winds may make your return paddle more difficult, so make sure you save some steam for the trip home!
Recommended Gear
Life jackets and all Transport Canada required safety gear are always a must. Sunscreen and sun hats are definitely recommended when you're on the water. A throw rope and extra paddle are always recommended for paddling on moving rivers.
The largest of the 3 parking lots is located at the far end of the looping drive way and has room for trailers and cars. There are 2 other smaller lots on either side of the loop.
Paddle in Niagara Region
With its depth and length, the Welland River is also frequented by jet skis and power boats, so you should take care when going around corners to stay to the outsides of the river. The boaters we met were respectful and slowed down, but we still had to deal with some wake (waves) that can create rougher water conditions than you may be used to. With the frequent boat traffic, we didn't see much for wildlife or water fowl, but the area was surrounded by pretty farms.
This small community park has many shady spots to sit under towering oak trees, but there are no washrooms or other amenities.
The first to launch! Headed off into the Welland River, also known as Chippewa Creek, in Niagara Region.
The Welland River is deep enough for power boats and jet skis, as well as kayaks. Kayakers should stick to the outsides of the river.
There is very little current, so you can paddle both ways on the river. We did get caught fighting the wind on the way back and the kids were tired out by the time we returned to the launch.
It was a beautiful sunny day - the perfect kind of day to be on the water!
Additional Reading
Rose City History - a History of the Welland River
Outfitter Options
No rentals available.
