Travel to Canada

We review this information and update this page from time to time, but it is your responsibility to verify travel requirements and documentation requirements for your trip to Canada.

The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) from the Department of Homeland Security established permanent changes to the process of crossing the U.S. border with Canada. We've done the homework for you. Below is everything you need to know, including links to government sites that publish the pertinent info and to resources you may need to secure documentation. If the following does not answer your questions contact us and we will help you figure it out. Use the quick links below to jump to the info you need.

Who Needs What Documents?

  • U.S. citizens can present a valid: U.S. Passport; Passport Card; Enhanced Driver’s License; Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST); U.S. Military identification card when traveling on official orders; U.S. Merchant Mariner document when traveling in conjunction with official maritime business; or Form I-872 American Indian Card, or (when available) Enhanced Tribal Card. SEE EXCEPTION BELOW!

  • All minors of under the age of 16 need only their birth certificate, the original or a copy of the original.

Exception for Religious Groups: READ THIS!!!

U.S. and Canadian citizen children under the age of 16 (or under 19, if traveling with a school, religious group, or other youth group) need only present a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship. The birth certificate can be original, photocopy, or certified copy.

The group should be prepared to present a letter on organizational letterhead with the following information:

  • The name of the group and supervising adult;

  • A list of the children on the trip, and the primary address, phone number, date of birth, place of birth, and the name of at least one parent or legal guardian for each child; and

  • A written and signed statement of the supervising adult certifying that he or she has obtained parental or legal guardian consent for each participating child.

How and Where to Get Documents

Passport Card

This will cost a little over $70 ($30 for the Passport Card, $35 for the processing fee and the photos will cost you anywhere from $6 - $20). Follow these steps to get a Passport Card:

  1. Get a Passport Photo. A great place to get your Passport photos is at CVS or Walgreens.

  2. Apply for the Passport Card: To apply for a Passport Card click here. Once you finish the application, print it out, locate the nearest place to turn in your application, and a list of all the items and documentation you need to have with you when you turn your application. Make sure that you send a check or money order with the application to cover the cost. All checks and money orders should be made out to the Department of State.

  3. Time Line: You may choose Routine Service (4-6 week turnaround) or Expedited Service (2-3 week turnaround) for an additional $60 fee.

Enhanced Drivers License

Available in the following states:

  • Michigan

  • Minnesota

  • New York 

  • Vermont 

  • Washington

Park Permits

Algonquin Park requires permits for overnight backcountry camping. There is a reservation flat fee for each travel group (up to 9 ppl) and a per night fee for each group member. Current fees thru April 2, 2025, are:

  • Group Fee: $12/travel group

  • Per Person Fees

    • Ages 6-17: $5.65 (CDN) pp/night

    • Ages 18+: $12.43 (CDN) pp/night

  • Current fees are online here.

Map It

1035 Algonquin Outfitters Rd, Dwight, ON P1H 2J6, Canada

OTHER HELPFUL DETAILS

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the group size rules in Algonquin Park?

The park regulations limit travel/campsite groups to 9 people and most campsites only support 3 or 4 tents.  So larger groups will require registration of multiple travel groups. The goal is to protect the pristine nature of the wilderness. Larger groups can reserve routes that have multiple campsites within the same vicinity each night and can gather for meals, travel together during the day, etc..., as long as they take care to "leave no trace." Our team has over 35 years of helping plan group trips.  We can help you design the optimal route and dynamics for your group.

Will transportation to and from base camp be provided for our people and/or the canoes and gear?

You will self-transport your people to the access point at the beginning of your trip and back to base camp after you exit the park.  You will park your vehicles in the parking area at the access point.  Parking passes are free with your backcountry permits and park staff regularly patrol the area.  Canoes will be transported to and from your access point by the outfitter.  This approach gives you max flexibility to control your trip schedule, even when the weather or other dynamics change it on the fly.

Where is base camp located?

Location is just East of Dwight, Ontario -- about 15 minutes West of the primary access point we use (Canoe Lake, #5). Map the drive here.

What are the trip route options?

Frankly, there are a ton of options in Algonquin.  Check out paddleplanner.com, which has an interactive map of the Algonquin. The Canoe Routes Map by Friends of Algonquin Park is a digital version of the print maps included in our packages.  It may be more helpful. Most groups do 6- or 7-day trips.  But shorter or longer trip lengths are viable too.  We can help you design the right fit for your group.

Can multiple groups travel together?

Yes. The biggest thing here is to make sure you are strategic in protecting the pristine natural resource Algonquin provides. If traveling together throughout the day, particularly when on portages and stopping at campsites for lunch, take extra care to stow any garbage, avoid undue wear on the environment, etc…

We’ve been helping churches, schools and other organizations run high impact wilderness trips for over 35 years. Leverage our experience to design an effective ministry trip around your group and your goals for them.

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