One of Ontario’s most dramatic natural attractions, the 325-foot rock walls of Algonquin Park’s Barron Canyon are nothing if not majestic. The day-long guided canoe trips run by Esprit Rafting provide vantage points from both above and below, in an easy hike-and-paddle package appropriate for families and first-time canoeists. The trip begins with a two-kilometre forest hike to a panoramic vista of the gorge. Guides offer quick eco-lessons along the way, stopping to observe patches of bright orange lichens that thrive on the canyon walls or to offer a taste of refreshing wintergreen leaves. Canoes wait at Brigham Chute, the departure point for a short paddling lesson followed by an eight-kilometre trip downstream. A lunch stop leaves time for splashing in a waterfall before continuing into the canyon. By the end of the afternoon paddle, the river widens into a marsh, where you might spot a blue heron or a moose. If flatwater seems dull, Esprit offers whitewater canoeing trips on the Petawawa River. These include Family Float Trip rafting excursions, which allow children age seven and up to join in the fun. For aficionados of extreme sports, riverboarding is sure to thrill. Guides lead the way on a seven-hour, 15-kilometre trip through Class 2 to 4 whitewater. A helmet, flippers, life jacket and picnic lunch are provided.