Paddle Board Sherbrooke: 12 Nearest Spots for Sherbrooke Enthusiast

If you're looking to paddle board in Sherbrooke, you won't want to miss these top spots. While Sherbrooke may not be situated directly on a major body of water, the surrounding lakes, rivers, and reservoirs provide excellent opportunities for paddle boarding. These locations boast stunning natural landscapes and diverse waterways suitable for all skill levels. Dive into this guide to discover the most scenic spots and enjoy a fantastic outdoor adventure!

DISCLAIMER: Before traveling to a paddle location, ensure that the location still allows for paddle boarding and make yourself aware of any rules and regulations in place.

1. Saint-François River

The Saint-François River is the most significant waterway in Eastern Townships. Its shallow depth and rocky bed create great conditions for any water sport.

Image source: Pexels

This incredible waterway has a stunning section that passes through Sherbrooke. Paddling between Richmond and Ulverton takes you into a peaceful, verdant valley where you can only hear the sound of singing birds and the breeze rustling through leaves.

• Types of water/winds: Placid water and generally calm wind
• Skill levels: All skill levels
• Launch points: You can access the water through launch points such as public parks (such as Frontenac National Park), rental facilities, and boat ramps along the river.
• Amenities: Depending on specific launching points. Some may even include restaurants and shops.
• Unique features: The exceptional, calming paddle journey begins in the lovely Frontenac National Park with views of the surrounding countryside, mountains, trees, and blue sky, creating a memorable experience.

2. Magog River

The second location paddle board Sherbrooke, is the picturesque Magog River. It's also located on the Corridor Bleu in the center of Sherbrooke, offering the beauty of both nature and urbanity.

The river is 15 km, and the paddling journey will take more than 3 hours, starting from the park of the plage-Municipale-de-Deauville and ending at Parc Lucien-Blanchard.

• Types of water/winds: Generally calm; however, you may experience more turbulent waters in some sections.
• Skill levels: Both beginners and experts can enjoy the river's placid water and minimum currents, while experts can challenge themselves with areas featuring stronger currents.
• Launch points: It's possible to approach the water from Centrale Frontenac Park or Lucien-Blanchard Park.
• Amenities: Parking slots, rental services, trails, picnic areas
• Unique features: Besides admiring the lush greenery along the bank, paddle boarders can have a chance to see the hydroelectric plant while walking near the natural history museum in the park.

3. Lac des Nations

Lac des Nations is a picturesque urban lake in Sherbrooke, Quebec. Paddlers may find peace and quietness here, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, greenery, and city landmarks.

Image source: Pxhere

The unique experience of combining the urban and natural beauty of Lac des Nations will keep you coming back for relaxation.

• Types of water/winds: Calm and stable water and occasional light to moderate winds
• Skill levels: All skill levels, including beginners.
• Launch points: Paddle board launches are available in Lac des Nations at both public and rental locations. They are usually found in parks or other open spaces.
• Amenities: Parking, picnic spots, benches, shops and cafes
• Unique features: Paddlers may combine their outdoor experience with cultural exploration by visiting the nearby galleries, museums, and historic places that make up the lake's cultural attractions.

4. The Cherry River Marsh and Lake Memphremagog

If you want to paddle board Sherbrooke in the summer, head to Magog's shores. The river offers stunning mountain views along its 40-km length, attracting many SUP enthusiasts.

This hidden gem will offer a great treat for your eyes and make your excursion more memorable. Sometimes, there can be paddle boarding competitions for community gatherings.

• Types of water/winds: Crystal clear and stale water
• Skill levels: Since the water is calm with slow flows, any paddle boarder can enjoy it.
• Launch points: There are many launch points along its shores and rental services.
• Amenities: Parking, trails, and benches for resting along the shoreline
• Unique features: You can explore the serene setting of the place at night while paddle boarding on the lake and enjoy the moonlight.

5. Aquaticook

Aquaticook is a 42 km circuit covering 3 portions of the Coaticook River. This dynamic river experiences significant seasonal fluctuations due to precipitation and dam management along its banks. The lakes that feed the river also affect the water level, making it crucial to ensure sufficient water before visiting.

The river passes through urban areas, agricultural zones, and forests. Thus, you can enjoy different settings while paddle boarding. You will even cross a covered bridge on your way!

• Types of water/winds: Quite calm water with minimum waves and moderate winds.
• Skill levels: Suitable for both beginner and advanced levels.
• Launch points: Public access points are available along the river.
• Amenities: Parking and picnic areas.
• Unique features: While enjoying the breathtaking view of Aquaticook, you will even cross a covered bridge on your way!

6. Brome Lake

If you're looking for a peaceful location paddle board Sherbrooke, you should consider Brome Lake. The lake is 14km2 and located near Knowlton.

Image source: PICRYL

Its tranquil atmosphere and stunning mountainous views will attract visitors. Brome Lake is ideal for many water sports, such as paddle boarding, kayaking, and canoeing, since there are few motor boats.

• Types of water/winds: Placid water and light to moderate winds
• Skill levels: All skill levels
• Launch points: You can access the water through public and private launch points along its shore.
• Amenities: Parking and picnic spots
• Unique features: You may have a chance to explore the lake's ecosystems with various wildlife. Plus, it may be possible to glimpse Mount Brome during the excursion.

7. Parc Jacques-Cartier

Parc Jacques-Cartier is a popular location paddle board Sherbrooke. The park's stunning waterways and recreational opportunities offer a serene outdoor experience for paddlers of all skill levels.

Paddle boarding here will allow you to enjoy the lush forests and rocky outcrops. Plus, you can explore the wildlife of fish, birds, and other species.

• Types of water/winds: Since it's located along the Magog River, the water conditions are diverse, ranging from calm, mild currents to fast-moving currents.
• Skill levels: The location is generally beginner-friendly. However, some areas are more suitable for intermediate to advanced levels.
• Launch points: The park likely has designated launch points along the Magog River, offering paddle boarders easy access to the water through docks or ramps.
• Amenities: Parking, picnic areas, and restrooms
• Unique features: Besides paddling, visitors can enjoy other outdoor activities, including picnics, hiking, and cycling.

8. Lake Massawippi

Lake Massawippi, in Quebec, Canada, is a serene lake surrounded by lush forests and picturesque countryside. Here, you'll have a chance to immerse in nature and relax while paddle boarding.

Image source: Pexels

People who love paddle board Sherbrooke and explore nature should come to Lake Massawippi. The environment of Lake Massawippi supports fish, birds, and aquatic plants, and it also provides historical charm and opportunities for animal observation.

• Types of water/winds: Generally calm and clear water and occasional light to moderate winds
• Skill levels: It's suitable for both novices and experts.
• Launch points: Several public access points are available along the shoreline. In addition, there are some private resorts and docks where you may find access.
• Amenities: Parking facilities, benches, picnic areas, shops and restaurants
• Unique features: Lake Massawippi always has something to offer everybody. You may even catch glimpses of Mount Orford in the distance.

9. Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook

This scenic natural park in Coaticook, Quebec, is a must-visit paddle board Sherbrooke destination for all paddle boarders. It's well-known for its breathtaking scenery, hiking paths, and outdoor leisure options.

Visitors can explore the picturesque river and enjoy the peace and quiet of the outdoors while paddling along. Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook always has something to offer everyone.

• Types of water/winds: Calm stretches and gentle currents with light to moderate winds
• Skill levels: Beginner-friendly
• Launch points: You can find launch points equipped with docks or ramps along the Coaticook River.
• Amenities: Parking, rest areas and visitor center
• Unique features: Paddle boarders can enjoy the magical atmosphere of night paddling and admiring the moon and the stars. Besides, Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook hosts various adventure activities such as mountain biking and zip-lining.

10. Parc Victoria

Parc Victoria is a beautiful park in the center of Sherbrooke, Quebec. Paddling here offers a delightful way to take in the beauty of nature without having to travel far from the city.

Visitors can paddle board Sherbrooke and enjoy a unique viewpoint of the city, with views of the surrounding urban landscape, which includes parks, historic buildings, and cultural attractions.

• Types of water/winds: Calm water and minimal wind
• Skill levels: All skill levels
• Launch points: Access to the lake is easy through public launch points along the shores and nearby rental services.
• Amenities: Parking, green spaces for resting, cafes, and restaurants
• Unique features: Parc Victoria offers a range of outdoor activities, such as paddle boarding, walking, cycling, and picnicking. It also enhances the outdoor experience by hosting events and festivals all year long.

11. Sherbrooke's Corridor Bleu

For those who enjoy paddle boarding, the Corridor Bleu in Sherbrooke is a beautiful and easily accessible location that provides a lively and engaging outdoor experience. It features interconnected waterways, such as the Magog River and Lac des Nations, offering leisure and exploration opportunities.

Image source: Pexels

The Corridor Bleu provides tranquil sections of the Magog River and Lac des Nations, which are ideal for inexperienced paddlers to develop skills. Meanwhile, intermediate-to-advanced paddlers may choose to explore other parts of the Magog River for their paddle board Sherbrooke experience with quicker currents or navigational issues.

• Types of water/winds: Diverse water conditions, from calm stretches to occasional rapids
• Skill levels: All skill levels depend on location
• Launch points: Launch points vary, including parks like the park of the plage-Municipale-de-Deauvile and the Parc Lucien-Blanchard park, other designated launch sites, waterfront areas, and rental places.
• Amenities: Parking facilities, resting areas, and Sherbrooke's urban setting, including cafes, restaurants, and shops
• Unique features: The paddling experience is enhanced by several yearly events in Corridor Bleu, including community gatherings and festivals.

12. The Missisquoi and Missisquoi North Rivers

The river spans 46 km from Eastman to Highwater near Mansonville. It provides a tranquil paddling route with many launch points along its shores.

The river is suitable for paddling. However, navigation is limited due to rapids or dams. Plus, you should check the water level before traveling, particularly in the Eastman area, where it may be quite low during the summer, to ensure a seamless experience.

• Types of water/winds: A mix of calm stretches, gentle currents, and occasional rapids
• Skill levels: Beginner-friendly, but some sections require expert skills
• Launch points: You can approach the water through public launch points along the river. However, some sections belong to conservation organizations and require permission to access.
• Amenities: Parking, picnic spots, campgrounds, accommodation and stores
• Unique features: The rivers offer opportunities for exploration and education as they flow through areas rich in history and cultural heritage. Besides, you can have an exceptional experience of thrilling white water features for adventure-seeking paddlers.

Safety Tips & Rental

Ensure you follow safety tips while enjoying the paddle board Sherbrooke excursion.

You should:

• Prepare your equipment: You should pump your inflatable SUP board to the suggested PSI and correctly assemble the paddle to ensure safety.
• Check the weather forecast: It is not recommended to head out in adverse weather, such as a too-strong wind or storm. Thus, check the forecast before going.
• Use a leash: A waist-belt leash or ankle leash is useful to maintain balance, especially for beginners.
• Wear a PDF: Bring a Personal Flotation Device, such as a Waist Belt PFD or Buoyancy Aid, to keep you floating when you fall off.
• Take a phone: It's always better to let your closest people know where you are and what your plan is in case of risk.
• Paddle with a friend: A companion will make your excursion more fun and offer help if necessary.
• Know your skills: Understanding your level identifies where the water is suitable for your paddle board.
• Research the water: Knowing information about the area, such as water type or tiding time before going, will ensure a smooth and safe experience.

Image soucre: Peakpx

You can rent paddle boards at many places, including outdoor recreation stores, beach resorts, and water sports centers. These places can even give you advice and suggest suitable locations for your level. However, it’s highly recommended to have your own stand up paddle board. You can purchase one from reliable shops, such as iROCKER, to receive ideal, well-maintained equipment.

Paddle Boarding in Sherbrooke with iROCKER

For an unforgettable paddle boarding adventure, explore the recommended spots in Sherbrooke. The stunning scenery and serene environment provide the perfect backdrop for honing your paddle boarding skills and unwinding. Enjoy a peaceful and rejuvenating experience with iROCKER paddle boards in this beautiful setting.

Your journey can be more convenient with the help of the Blue Adventures App of iROCKER. This great travel companion will suggest suitable locations, save your favorite spots, and record your sessions. Download it right now and explore!