The Souris River in southwestern Manitoba is a gentle, wide waterway that meanders through rolling hills, originating near the North Dakota border and flowing northeast to its confluence with the Assiniboine River near Treesbank. The river's character is generally calm and well-suited to beginner and intermediate paddlers, though conditions change significantly with the season. In spring, particularly around Treesbank where it meets the Assiniboine, the river can move quickly with rapids. Spring runoff is considered the best time for fast-moving water, though levels decrease rapidly as the season progresses. The river is best paddled early in spring to take advantage of higher flows.

A documented two-day route covers approximately 58 kilometres, rated Class I or II in April, with no portages required. The put-in for this route is at the Provincial Road 348 crossing of the Souris River, and the take-out is at the Highway 2 crossing. Alternate access points exist at Provincial Roads 346 and 10. The surrounding landscape along this stretch includes high, sharp cliffs on each side in parts of the Souris Valley, with the broader corridor described as relatively remote farm and cottage country.

Wildlife along the river is varied and includes beaver, turtles, ducks, herons, white-tailed deer, and hawks. Coyotes can be heard in the area. The river also supports walleye and northern pike.

The town of Souris itself offers a dock located in Victoria Park and is accessible for boating, canoeing, and fishing. Paddlers moving downstream through town must be aware of a dangerous dam located on the east end of Souris. Warning signs are posted as paddlers approach the area, but caution is strongly advised. The dam creates an aggressive and turbulent current, and users are warned to stay off the cement pads and away from steep embankments near the dam structure.

Notable landmarks near the town of Souris include the Souris Swinging Bridge, the Agate Rock Pit, and a local Rock Shop, making the town a reasonable destination point for a paddling trip. Topographical maps covering the river corridor are 62 F/9, G/5, and G/12.