The Keele River originates in a small, unnamed lake near the border of the Northwest Territories and the Yukon, approximately 25 kilometres (16 mi) south of Macmillan Pass, which is the terminus of the drivable section of the North CANOL Road.

From the Natla Confluence, The Keele turns and snakes its way northward for 85 kilometres (53 mi) until it meets the Twitya River, its largest tributary, flowing in from the west.

Just after the Twitya confluence, the Keele is deflected east around the Tigonankweine Range by the towering Mount Eduni Massif and continues in this direction until reaching the Mackenzie River.

This is due to a perfect combination of spectacular rugged mountain scenery, excellent fishing and wildlife viewing and fun but challenging class 2+ whitewater with no portages.

Swift currents, rapids and aquamarine glacial water in a wilderness setting hundreds of kilometres from the nearest road mean that this river offers a thrill to all who paddle it.