Sauble River - The Falls & the Rankin River Canoe Kayak Route

Sauble River & Sauble River Falls

The Sauble River is a river in Bruce County, Ontario which flows from headwaters in Chatsworth County to empty into Lake Huron at Sauble Beach, Ontario.

Sauble Falls Provincial Park is located at a waterfall close to where the Sauble is joined by its tributary, the Rankin River.

The river was originally called Riviere aux Saubles, or sandy river, by the French. It was named the River aux Saubles in 1759 and became the Sauble River in 1859.

In the spring, rainbow trout make their way from Lake Huron up the fishing ladder at Sauble Falls to spawn in the tributaries of the Sauble River. Huge fish can be seen leaping and thrashing their way up the falls. In the autumn, salmon make the same journey up the Sauble River for spawning.

Summer fishing is great for small mouth bass and perch. Check the dates of the Chantry Chinook Classic Fishing Derby to test your fishing skill on the waters of Lake Huron. Fishing licenses may be purchased at T.J. Sports on the Main Street of Sauble Beach. Rainbow trout and salmon fishing is permitted year round within the westerly boundary of Sauble Falls Provincial Park to Lake Huron. Boat launching is available at the Sauble Marina and municipal boat launching dock at the mouth of the river.

Photos From Panoramio

Boating on the Rankin River & Sauble River

You can follow the age old portage route between the Georgian Bay and Lake Huron by canoeing on sections of the Rankin River. Native people and later arrivals avoided the distance and perils of a trip around the Peninsula by using this portage.

The canoe route extends from Sky Lake, east of Red Bay, through Isaac and Boat Lakes, to the Rankin, and finally the Sauble River, ending at Sauble Falls. Maps can be obtained from the Ministry of Natural Resources or from local information centres.

The Sauble River’s northern portion can be accessed on Bruce Road 8, west of Hepworth. The river winds through farmlands and steep sand dunes providing a relaxed canoe ride. The Sauble River is joined by several creeks and meets the Rankin River just above the bridge at Sauble Falls. Exit right at the bridge. enjoy the beauty of the falls while having a picnic in the provincial park.

Bruce County Information on the Rankin River Route
The Rankin River canoe route travels from Sky Lake to Sauble Falls, a distance of 18 km with a travel time of 5-7 hours. (Please note: these times are typical for mid-summer. Actual time may vary depending on the ability of the paddler and water conditions.) Campsites at Sauble Falls Provincial Park are easily accessible or book space at one of the private campgrounds located close to the canoe route.

Paddle the Rankin all in one trip or break it down into three shorter trips...whichever route suits! Visit Bruce County for more information

Rankin River Canoe Route by Sue Lebrecht

Sauble Falls Provincial Park

Sauble Falls Provincial Park is a must see in any season. Spring and Fall rainbow trout and Chinook salmon will fascinate you, or visit in the summer when there is less water flowing over the falls and they appear like a lace bridal veil. The Sauble Trail, which is a hiking trail, only, provides a leisurely stroll over ancient sand dunes. It’s a diverse habitat to explore. Scenic vistas overlooking the Sauble River are a highlight of the walk.