Rouge River Creeking

Outing Type → 

 


We plan to paddle down the Rouge River from Milne Dam Conservation Park to about Old Finch Road, approx. 14 kms.  Last year we did this in 5 hours, which included lunch.   This should be a total of 14 km. 
The water level was at 3.42m (discharge flow 2.2 m3/s) and it was a bump and grind adventure.   I am hoping to do the river at a higher level this year.  Maybe double?   Generally, the river was a classic class 1 to 1.5 creek, with lots of obstacles.

If the water is too high or low we might move the event to Saturday, April 11, 2026.


You will need a whitewater boat and prepared to jump in and out of your boat to get around sweepers and downed trees,rocks, etc.
Real-Time Hydrometric Data Graph for ROUGE RIVER NEAR MARKHAM (02HC022) [ON] - Water Level and Flow - Environment Canada


If you are looking for a canoe partner or canoe to sit in, let me know, and I will try and coordinate connected people with canoes with people looking for a canoe.  Send me an email or call me.
 

Check out previous years YouTube videos

https://youtu.be/IIN-4Hk3dxc

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIglq057Rn0

The Basics
Event Location

Rouge River, Markham, Ontario

Date(s) & Time
Event Duration
1 day
Difficulty Rating
Novice
Registration Cut Off
April 2, 2026
Participant Info
Who's Invited
People capable to paddle in Class 1 swifts and rapids with sweepers
Maximum Group Size
8 boats
Minimum Group Size
2 boats
Itinerary
Itinerary description

Put In 8:30 am
Place 2 cars at Finch takeout (limited parking). Or drivers share an Uber ride back to put in to pick up their cars.
Start 9 am at Milne Dam Conservation Park
Lunch ~12 noon ish 1/2 hour
4-5 hours paddle
2-3 pm Takeout. Drivers shuttle back to putin to collect their vehicles.
3-4 pm vehicle shuttle to pick up everybody at Finch.

 

 

Required Items to Bring

Whitewater boat and gear
Dry or wet suit
water/food

Recommended Items to Bring

Water/food

Drysuit
Extra clothes if you go for a swim.

How to Get There
Event Directions

Putin Milne Dam Conservation Park
https://maps.app.goo.gl/LUA7gSnPPY29kSft6
 

Takeout Finch Road Bridge
https://maps.app.goo.gl/DijYLMnfjXpsUj3B9

 

Limited parking here at Old Finch Road only

https://maps.app.goo.gl/WZARtiMDLVG1rpex9