All River Guide Stops

GPS Coordinates: N57° 06.281′ W117° 16.726’

Here you will see the high voltage power lines to the Saw Mill. You will see the markers on the power lines these are there to make the lines visible for pilots. Many small-aircraft pilots love to fly along the river valley and sometimes pilots will follow the river in poor weather to find their way home. These markers also serve as flotation devices. If the power line was ever to come down for some reason, it would not sink to the bottom of the river.

GPS Coordinates: N57° 05.423′ W117° 15.434’

This private cabin is provided for reference purposes only and is not intended for access or use.

GPS Coordinates: N57° 04.474′ W117° 10.135’

Here you will find a boat launch with road access in case of emergency.

GPS Coordinates: N57° 02.775′ W117° 13.452’

This private cabin on the east shore is provided for reference purposes only and is not intended for access or use.

GPS Coordinates:N56° 54.656′ W117° 15.050’

While you are traveling on this river check out the trees along the banks of the river. Bald eagles like to nest along this river. They build their nests that can be 4.5m across, in old growth trees with a view away from human populations.

On the banks of this area of the river you will start to see the Loon River Formation, located below the Shaftesbury Formation and the Peace River Formation. The Loon River Formation is primarily dark grey shale and siltstone, with some minor sandstone and concretions. More and more of it will be visible as you travel north.

Here there is road access in case of emergency. You will find private residents at this location and a boat launch . This spot is only 13km from the Town of Manning.

GPS Coordinates: N56° 51.664′ W117° 19.580’

These private cabins on both sides of the river are provided for reference purposes only and is not intended for access or use.

GPS Coordinates: N56° 51.200′ W117° 17.867’

This is a point of reference.

GPS Coordinates: N55° 37.014′ W117° 42.481’

Here you will come across an impressive clay wall showcasing a stunning variety of colors and textures. From reds, browns, greens, yellows, greys and whites . A great spot to pause, take photos, and admire the unique patterns carved by time and nature.

GPS Coordinates: N55° 36.705′ W117° 39.875′

Here, you will discover holes in the riverbank where Bank Swallows have built their nests. These remarkable birds migrate all the way to South America each year, returning in the spring to raise their young and continue the cycle of life along the river.

GPS Coordinates: N55° 36.461′ W117° 39.123’

Here is a beautiful sandy beach a great spot to spend the night or stop. There are private ATV trails down to this beach.

GPS Coordinates: N55° 39.831′ W117° 37.719′

Here you will find a natural spring where water flows directly from the riverbank into the river.

GPS Coordinates: N55° 40.356′ W117° 37.908’

Here you will find the confluence of the Little Smoky and the Smoky Rivers. This meeting area of the two waterways features a gravel beach, perfect for relaxing, skipping stones, or enjoying the view of the flowing rivers. A great spot for a stop.

GPS Coordinates: N55° 40.543′ W117° 38.340’

Here you will see an impressive clay wall, a natural display of vibrant colors and textures. The wall showcases a variety of clay types, from reds, greens, greys, browns, yellows and whites, each formed over thousands of years. It’s a fascinating spot for anyone.

GPS Coordinates: N55° 42.923′ W117° 37.309’

The Watino Boat Launch is located on the south side of the Smoky River, just across from the charming community of Watino and near the Smoky River Bridge on Highway 49. Here you can visit the Valley Bee Café a Francophone bee farm offering hands-on self-guided tours, an observation hive, honey extraction viewing, local artisan goods, and community tables for conversation. Fun for all ages, this unique experience lets visitors explore the fascinating world of bees while enjoying local food and drinks.

GPS Coordinates: N55° 42.957′ W117° 36.131’

Here you will see a striking ledge of sandstone erosion on the east side of the river. This natural landmark is impossible to miss, with layers of sandstone. Wind, water, and time have sculpted the cliff. It’s a remarkable feature of the Smoky River and a must-see for anyone navigating this section.

GPS Coordinates: N55° 43.388′ W117° 36.278’

Km 67.6: Watino Train Trestle, Birch Hills County & MD of Smoky River

GPS Coordinates: N55° 44.415′ W117° 38.499’

Here you will encounter the Watino Rollers. A name that perfectly captures this section of the river. On the east side, the water churns and swells, creating a dramatic, rolling stretch of river.

Km 67.6: Watino Train Tressel, Birch Hills County & MD of Smoky River
GPS Coordinates: N55° 43.388′ W117° 36.278’

GPS Coordinates: N55° 46.154′ W117° 36.410’

Here you will encounter more whitewater before arriving at the Watino Flats. The area above the beach is private, with cabins and RVs on the property. You are welcome to stop and enjoy the sandy and rocky beach along the river, but please respect the private land above it.

GPS Coordinates: N55° 46.937′ W117° 36.122’

Here you will encounter more white water, as well as road access on the MD of Smoky River side of the river.