Flooded Forests in “Canada’s Amazon”
Scouting Big Creek with Mike Farr
In our recent field notes, we’ve talked a lot about the changing seasons, the “False Spring,” and the countdown to open water. Well, after the recent major melts and massive runoff, we didn’t just sit on the shore waiting for summer—we got out there to see what the water was doing.
If you’ve paddled with us before or read our blogs and social, you know Big Creek is affectionately known as the “Canada’s Amazon”. Normally, it offers a sheltered paddle through winding, narrow channels and under a thick canopy of Carolinian forest, providing a deep sense of isolation that makes you feel a thousand miles from the nearest highway. But recently, the creek was a completely different beast.
The major melts sent a massive surge of runoff down the valley, pushing the creek 3 to 4 feet higher than normal. The water completely breached the banks, flooding out into the surrounding farm fields and spilling deep into the forests. Paddling through the flooded timber instead of the usual narrow channels was a surreal, once-in-a-season experience.
To help me navigate and scout these wild, high-water conditions, I brought along Mike Farr. I am beyond thrilled to announce that Mike will be stepping up to guide the Grand Experiences “Big Trips” this 2026 season!
Mike is an absolute legend on the water. He is ORCKA certified, bringing top-tier safety and skill to every expedition. But beyond his technical expertise, he is also a phenomenal canoe trickster and a drummer, meaning he brings a rhythm, style, and energy to the river that our guests are going to absolutely love. If you want to see some of his paddling skills in action before you meet him on the water, you can find him on social media at farr_out_adventures1.
Navigating the flooded Carolinian forests with a paddler of Mike’s caliber was an incredible way to kick off the spring thaw. Once the water levels settle down to our safe, standard commercial levels, Mike and the rest of our team will be ready to take you out on our Big Creek Guided Canoe & Kayak Eco-Adventures.
Don’t let the season slip away—grab your gear, book your trip, and come see why we love the Amazon of Ontario!