The Ruiten Aa Kanaal runs through the province of Groningen in the northeastern Netherlands, stretching from Ter Apel to Veelerveen. The waterway passes through the Dal van de Ruiten Aa, a landscape of forests, meadows, and meandering streams in the Groningen countryside.

Paddlers navigating the canal will encounter two locks: the Bourtanger lock, which has a movable bridge, and the Vlagtwedder lock, which has a fixed bridge with a clearance of 30 dm. Lock operating hours are 08:00–20:00 on weekdays, Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. The canal connects to several other waterways, offering options for extended trips. Via the Bourtanger Canal (approximately 1.5 km, with one fixed bridge at 25 dm clearance), paddlers can reach the fortified town of Bourtange, which has a marina. Beyond the Vlagtwedder lock, Parc Emslandermeer is accessible on the port side. The B.L. Tijdenskanaal, branching off near the Noabersbadde bridge at the junction with the Mussel-Aa-kanaal, provides a route toward Bad Nieuweschans or the Wedderbergen recreation area via the Veendiep.

Canoe rental is available locally through Kanoverhuur Ruiten Aa, located at Bovennieuwlandsweg 1, 9541SZ Vlagtwedde. The operator offers duo canoes and is open every day of the week. Free parking is available at the rental location, and catering facilities are nearby. The rental is described as suitable for a range of ages and experience levels.

Paddlers planning trips involving locks or movable bridges should verify current operating schedules and any temporary closures or construction-related disruptions before departure. The emergency number for the Hunze en Aa's water board is 0598-693470.