The route starts at the Shall Lake Algonquin Park Access Point, found at the end of Major Lake Road north of Madawaska. The first take-out is located at the Aylen River/Opeongo River confluence. The other take-out is found where the river flows near Highway 60 east of Madawaska.
The towns of Madawaska and Barry’s Bay offer accommodations, food and gas. Alternatively, Algonquin Bound Outfitters offers shuttles and supplies for those looking to run the river.
The Opeongo River is an exciting whitewater river that travels from Shall Lake within Algonquin Provincial Park, south to Bark Lake. The river flows over 30 km (19 miles) from the put-in point in Algonquin Park to the Highway 60 take-out. The section of the river from Victoria Lake to the Aylen River confluence is almost a continuous whitewater ride! The river drops over 80 metres (260 feet) in this stretch creating Class II to IV rapids. Portages can be spotted from the river. Be sure to scout all whitewater before attempting to run it.