The Pefferlaw River (also referred to locally as Pefferlaw Brook) flows northward through the village of Pefferlaw in York Region, Ontario, emptying into the southeast shore of Lake Simcoe. The river passes through a mix of wetlands, cedar bush, reed beds, and tree-lined banks, with occasional residential properties visible along its shores. Paddlers have compared the lower stretch to classic Lake Simcoe periphery habitat, with glassy water and a character reminiscent of the Minesing Swamp area.

The recommended put-in is at Zephyr Road (sometimes spelled Zepher Road), where a concrete launch slab is available near the intersection of Pefferlaw Road and Main Street. From Zephyr Road northward to Lake Simcoe, the river is generally clear for paddling with only a couple of short portages required. South of Zephyr Road, the river becomes increasingly narrow and choked with deadfalls, making it impractical for paddling. The section between the Goodwood area and Zephyr Road is described as beautiful but heavily obstructed by fallen trees, surrounded by dense cedar bush and wetlands.

The lower stretch from the dam area in Pefferlaw to Lake Simcoe is a manageable day trip. Paddlers can also access the river from Old Homestead Road and paddle upstream and back. The village of Pefferlaw itself is accessible mid-route, offering a stop for lunch or refreshments at the Belvedere Hotel, a historic building dating to approximately 1894.

On busy summer days, the river near its mouth can see heavy motorized boat traffic between the several marinas and the public boat launch in the area, which may affect the paddling experience on the lower section. Everglades Marina and Flying Bridge Marina are both located on the Pefferlaw River near its outlet to Lake Simcoe.

The surrounding wetlands and cedar bush support abundant wildlife, and the area is noted as a healthy wildlife habitat. The Udora Lions Club organizes an annual spring paddle day on the river, suggesting spring is a viable and popular season for paddling. A conservation area is located in downtown Pefferlaw along the river at Pefferlaw Road, though no parking is provided at that specific location.