Algonquin Portage

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

How far is your location from? (approximate driving times)

Algonquin Park Sand Lake Gate - 15min
Barron Canyon access point Squirrel Rapids - 20min
Barron Canyon access point Brigham Lake - 35 min
Achray campground/ Grand Lake - 45 min
Lake Travers - 1 hour
Lake McManus - 40 min
Sec Lake - 20min
Ottawa - 1 hour 45 min
Toronto - 4 hours 45 min
Pembroke & Petawawa - 15 min

Do we need to make a reservation?

In general it is better to make a reservation. There is no cost to you. If you wish to cancel please give us 48 hrs advance notice.

Do you take reservations over the internet?

At this point in time we are currently taking reservations only over the phone. We can quickly & thoroughly answer your questions better over the phone than on the internet. We also like to make sure you are confident with the type of trip you have planned and are getting the right services.

Do you deliver canoes?

Yes, we deliver any number of canoes. This service is usually helpful and economical for groups with 3 or more canoes. Please see our rates and call for details.

Most clients prefer to transport the canoe(s) on the roof of their vehicle. If you need to rent a car top carrier kit at a cost of $4 we can easily show you how to transport the canoe yourself. Transporting the canoe yourself also allows you greater time flexibility and you can take advantage of our after hours late return.

Can we put 2 canoes on one vehicle?

Yes, our staff will show you with a few simple steps how you can put 2 canoes on most vehicles (even small hatchbacks). The 2-canoe roof rack is simple, won't scratch your car and is inexpensive at $8 rental. 10-15 min should be all the time you need to securely tie your canoes on your car.

How do you load your rented canoe(s)?

Transporting a canoe(s) is very simple and economical. Our staff is there to assist you, give tie-down instructions and help you lift the canoe(s) if you require. Click Here for pictures.

Please note:

It is the customer's responsibility to tighten the canoe(s) to their vehicle ensuring the canoe(s) are stable and secure before they leave our location.

One Canoe one Vehicle
Cost: $4
Includes: 4 canoe foam pads & adjustable tie-down straps that won't scratch your car.

Click Here for a downloadable PDF of instructions.

Place the canoe on the ground beside your vehicle. Make sure it is positioned equally from front to back parallel to your car.
Attach the 4 foam pad to the gunnels of the canoe so that once the canoe is lifted onto your vehicle the pads will rest on the roof the car.
Lift the canoe onto the roof your car. Please ask our staff for assistance if you need it. Please ensure the yoke of the canoe is not resting on the roof of your car.
Attach the tie-down straps to the ends of the canoe.
Secure the tie-down straps to a strong metal brace or hook under both the front and rear bumpers of your car.
Every vehicle is different and it may be difficult to find a good place to secure the straps. If you are having trouble please let our staff know. We can provide you with Quick Loops which are a very handy attachment that fit securely under your car's hood or trunk. They won't scratch your car and give you instant stable and strong hooks.
Tighten every strap and secure them with a knot. Give the canoe a test shake and you are ready to go!

Two Canoes one Vehicle
Cost: $8
Includes: 2 padded roof top racks, adjustable tie down straps that won't scratch your car & rope.

Click Here for a downloadable PDF of instructions.

Place the canoes on the ground with one on each side of your vehicle. Make sure they are positioned equally from front to back parallel to your car.
Place the padded roof top racks on the roof of your car. Adjust the width so that they are centered on your car.
Lift one canoe at a time onto the roof racks. Ask a friend to lightly brace one canoe by holding it at its side while the other canoe is being lifted onto the car.
Attach the tie-down straps to the ends of the canoes.
Secure the tie-down straps to a strong metal brace or hook under both the front and rear bumpers of your car.
Every vehicle is different and it may be difficult to find a good place to secure the straps. If you are having trouble please let our staff know. We can provide you with Quick Loops which are a very handy attachment that fit securely under your car's hood or trunk. They won't scratch your car and give you instant stable and strong hooks.
Tighten the straps slowly just so everything is stable.
Attach a rope to end of one roof rack and toss it diagonally over both canoes. Tighten the rope and secure it around the other end of the roof racks.
Re-Tighten the tie-down straps so that the canoes are secure. Tie off the straps with a knot.
Give the canoes a test for stability and you are ready to go!

Will you help us tie the canoe(s) on our vehicles?

Yes, our staff is there to help you get on your way. We will show you pointers and give you instructions how to load and secure your canoe(s). Please note that it is the customer's responsibility to tighten the canoes down until they are secure.

When are the bugs gone?

Every year is a bit different but generally the seasons are as follows:
Black flies: May-late June
Mosquitoes: May-mid July
Deer flies: July-mid Aug

Can we drink the water out of the lakes & streams?

Algonquin's water is clean and fresh. Many people drink it as is but to be absolutely sure it is advisable to boil your water, filter it or simple use water purification tablets (available at most camping stores and at our location).

Should we be worried about bears?

The Algonquin Park Rangers are immediately alerted to any bear issues and there have been very few incidents for concern over the last few years.

The best way to protect yourself not only from unwanted bears visiting your campsite but also raccoons is to tie your food up in a tree. Your food barrel or pack sack should be tied to a long rope so that it hangs in mid air high enough that a bear cannot reach it from the ground. Keep your campsite free of food scraps by burning any leftovers your don't want to keep.

More info about bear safety and securing your food pack is available at the Park Gate or Ranger Station at Achray campground.

Bear deterrent pepper spray is also available for purchase at our location.

Can we reach the Barron Canyon Trail from the Barron River?

No, the Barron Canyon Trail is located along the steepest and most dangerous part of the canyon and is inaccessible from the river.

Both the trail & river are equally scenic but need to be ventured separately.

Algonquin Portage
Barron Canyon Road
613-735-1795