TL;DR:
- Yes, you can carry a canoe on a Backwoods DRIFTR Roof Rack
- Use cam straps, ratchet straps, and bow and stern tie-downs
- Foam blocks add grip and protect your canoe
- The DRIFTR's tie down points and modular rails make mounting easy
- Strong enough for off-road travel and long hauls
- Perfect fit for 3rd Gen Toyota Tundra crew max models
Absolutely—your canoe can fit on a Backwoods DRIFTR Roof Rack, and it’ll look downright epic up there. Whether you’re headed to a quiet lake, a fast-moving river, or the coast, the Backwoods DRIFTR roof rack is built to handle the job. With its heavy-duty 1/4" thick aluminum frame, triple-slotted crossbars, and smart tie-down features, it's perfect for hauling your canoe—and then some.
Let’s break down how to attach a canoe to a roof rack and why the DRIFTR system makes it easy and secure.
Why the DRIFTR Roof Rack Is Canoe-Ready
The Backwoods DRIFTR roof rack isn't just for rooftop tents and recovery gear. Thanks to its adjustable extrusions, tie down points, and optional deck panels, it's a perfect fit for outdoor gear—especially your canoe.
This rack is modular, low-profile, and more than strong enough to hold your canoe’s weight, even while bouncing down dirt roads to your favorite put-in spot.
How to Strap a Canoe to a Roof Rack: Step-by-Step
If you're new to this, here's a quick and safe guide to how to strap a canoe to a roof rack using a DRIFTR system.
What you’ll need:
- Cam straps or ratchet straps (avoid overtightening with ratchets!)
- Bow and stern ropes
- Foam blocks (optional, for added protection)
1. Position the Canoe:
Lift the canoe and place it upside down with the hull resting evenly on the roof rack crossbars. Make sure it's centered and not hanging too far over the passenger side or side of the vehicle.
2. Add Foam Blocks (Optional):
If you're worried about scratches or shifting, you can add foam blocks between the canoe and rack. This also helps prevent wind noise and gives extra grip.
3. Secure Canoe to Roof Rack with Straps:
Loop a cam strap over the canoe and under each crossbar. Tighten until snug, but not crushing. Repeat for the second crossbar. This is the key to keeping the canoe stable during the drive.
Our deck panels have specific anchor point cutouts on them made for a variety of straps. L-track, e-track, etc. They're designed so you don't have to loop anything under. It's clean and efficient.
4. Tie Down Bow and Stern:
Use ratchet straps or ropes to secure the bow and stern of the canoe to the tie down points on your bumper or frame. This prevents front-to-back shifting, especially on highways or rough roads.
5. Check and Drive:
Once everything’s tight and tidy, give the canoe a shake test. You’re good to go.
DRIFTR Racks Make Canoe Carrying Easy
With a Backwoods DRIFTR Roof Rack, tying a canoe to a roof rack becomes less of a chore and more of a simple step in your adventure. You’ve got the strength, adjustability, and mounting points you need to secure a canoe to a roof rack like a pro.
So go ahead—load up, strap down, and chase the water. Because when your rig is built by Backwoods, no trail or tide is off-limits.
Ready to rig your ride? Check out our full selection of roof rack accessories and get your Tundra canoe-ready today!