SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/scout-canoe-gunwales

What are the rails along the top edge of both sides of a canoe called?

Gunwales, pronounced "gunnels."

Start playing free

  1. Thwarts
  2. Gunwales ✔
  3. Painters

Why: Gunwales run along the top of each side and help the hull keep its shape. Thwarts are the braces across the width, and painters are ropes at the ends.

Huh, didn't know that: A keel helps a canoe go straight but makes it harder to turn.

The dad joke
Why did the canoe go to therapy? It had too many issues on board.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: Gunwales. Gunwales run along the top of each side and help the hull keep its shape. Thwarts are the braces across the width, and painters are ropes at the ends.

  1. Canoeing merit badge pamphlet filestore.scouting.org/filestore/Merit_Badge_ReqandRes/Pamphlets/Canoeing.pdf
    Gunwales (pronounced “gunnels”) are rails that run along the top edge of both sides of the canoe.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Outdoors & CampingOn a canoe paddle, what is the throat?Outdoors & CampingWind picks up and waves build while you're canoeing. What body position helps prevent capsizing?Outdoors & CampingYou're lost on a hiking trail. What do you do?

That's stuff everyone should know.