The Thijssengracht is a long, straight canal located in the province of Overijssel, part of the extensive network of waterways in the Giethoorn and Weerribben-Wieden National Park region. It serves as a key connector within popular paddling routes. A primary access point for launching kayaks is directly at the Thijssengracht itself, specifically at a small mooring place for motor yachts located just before a bridge; if boats are moored there, paddlers can launch from a small space left at the bridge where the sides are low. This canal leads towards the village of Giethoorn. The overall character of paddling here is defined by navigating through classic Dutch canal landscapes, often as part of longer circular trips. One recommended day trip is a 23.6 km round trip starting from the Thijssengracht. This route heads east, crossing the Canal Beukers-Steenwijk and the lake Bovenwijde, which is noted as being rather shallow at about one meter deep. The route eventually loops back, passing through other canals and the village of Wanneperveen. When planning a trip that includes the Thijssengracht, paddlers should be aware that in Giethoorn, which is accessible from this canal, there is one-way traffic for boats, and passage is only possible in a northern direction. It is strongly advised to avoid Giethoorn on busy days due to high congestion from many rental boats, some of which are poorly handled; paddling through in the evening when it has quieted down is described as very nice. The surrounding area features notable sights such as the historic village of Dwarsgracht, which you pass through on some routes, and the oldest ash tree in the Netherlands located nearby. Facilities are limited to basic infrastructure like the mentioned kayak piers and low sides for access; a specific picnic table is noted on a corner along a connecting canal. The water body's aesthetic is typical of the region, with straight canal sections opening into wider, shallow lakes, bordered by reeds and marshland.