The Gaspe is a long haul from anywhere and, although there are small fishing villages scattered here and there on the peninsula's edge, the interior is virtually uninhabited. For canoeists, this means an undisturbed expanse of virgin wilderness surrounding an unspoiled gem of whitewater.

	Bonaventure River Practicalities Length: 85 Miles. Difficulty: Class II - IV Hazards: Rapids, remote wilderness Cautions: Help is not readily available in this remote area. Location: Gaspe peninsula in the Gulf of St. Lawrence Best time to go: Early to mid-June How to get there: Highway 132 from Quebec City Permits, fees, and special regulations, if any: None For more information: Contact Sunrise Expeditions

Best time to run the Bonaventure is in early- to mid-June. The mountain snowmelt is at its peak, the runoff is high enough to practically guarantee exciting rapids, and the bugs have yet to begin their annual onslaught. Not as challenging as the Moisie, the Bonaventure can still reach up and bite you. Its remoteness ensures that you will probably have the river to yourself, at least until you near its mouth at the sea.

The Gaspe is about 330 miles from Quebec City, so make the trip worthwhile. Part of the fun of running the Bonaventure is driving there. The coast road (Highway 132) follows the sheer cliffs and coves of the rugged coastline, threading through the picturesque villages and forests. Take extra time after your canoeing to drive to the eastern end of the peninsula and visit the Parc National Forillon. Ninety-three square miles of dense forest are there for your exploration and enjoyment.

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