Rafting the Wild Rapids of the Ottawa River at the Ontario/Quebec Border
Rafting the Wild Rapids of the Ottawa River at the Ontario/Quebec Border
The Ottawa River is one of Canada’s most exciting whitewater rafting destinations, offering world-class rapids along the Ontario/Quebec border. This section of the river features both high-adrenaline Class III to V rapids and calmer stretches, making it ideal for various skill levels. The combination of powerful waves, deep channels, and surrounding natural beauty makes this a must-visit for adventure seekers.
Adventure Guide to Rafting the Wild Rapids of the Ottawa River
1. The Main Channel – High-Intensity Whitewater
- Location: OWL Rafting and Wilderness Tours, Foresters Falls, Ontario
- Why It’s Special: This section features massive Class IV and V rapids like “Coliseum” and “Garvin’s Chute.” Big waves, technical maneuvers, and fast water make it thrilling for experienced rafters.
- Key Features: OWL Rafting offers full-day guided trips with lunch and video footage included. Rafts accommodate 6–12 people, and trained guides ensure safety even in extreme conditions.
2. The Middle Channel – A Balanced Adventure
- Location: Wilderness Tours, Beachburg, Ontario
- Why It’s Special: The Middle Channel provides a mix of challenging rapids and scenic floating sections, making it a great choice for first-timers. Rapids like "Split Rock" and "Lower No Name" offer excitement without the same intensity as the Main Channel.
- Key Features: Wilderness Tours offers both family-friendly and high-thrill package options. They also have a riverside lodge with dining, swimming spots, and hiking trails.
3. Gentle Rafting and Kayaking – Soft Adventure Option
- Location: Rafting Momentum, Bryson, Quebec
- Why It’s Special: Those looking for a milder experience can enjoy smaller rapids, ideal for families or those preferring a relaxed ride. There are also inflatable kayaking options for navigating minor rapids independently.
- Key Features: Rafting Momentum offers small-group guided trips, making it perfect for those wanting personalized experiences.
Local Insights
- The Ottawa River was a vital trade route for Indigenous peoples and fur traders for centuries. The currents historically shaped communities and economies in this region.
- Many rapids have Indigenous names, preserving the cultural heritage of the land.
Visitor Tips
- Best Time to Visit: May to September, with higher water levels in early summer.
- What to Bring: Quick-dry clothing, secure footwear, sunscreen, and a waterproof camera. Wetsuits provided in colder months.
- Getting There: Approx. 1.5 hours from Ottawa via Trans-Canada Highway (ON-417 W) toward Foresters Falls.
Adventure Map
Reviews
Erin Clarke6 months ago
This was our second time going. Last time we did just the one day medium intensity and camped the night before. This year we brought a few more friends and did the raft and resort package on the long weekend in August. Amazing time, great food and wonderful staff. Our guide, Jamie, was fantastic! Next year I think we will shoot for the two day medium / high intensity! Kudos to all the staff. We will definitely return year after year!
LRA Modelsa week ago
First time going rafting ever. My girlfriend did win a 3 day rafting adventure for two people.
The staff is very friendly and is taking good care of you. Our guide Pete was a blast, had so much fun on the entire trip.
BBQ on the boat and at the main house was also very good.
We stayed in the glamping tent which was located at the end of the tent camping ground. It was definitely comfortable and the view was just awesome !
Coming back for sure !
patricia Dewar5 months ago
We stayed in tents. Camping area was very clean and grass was cut. Bathrooms were easily accessible and clean. Well stocked as well. Outdoor bathrooms near tents as well. Staff are very helpful and friendly and work very hard at keeping the resort clean and well stocked. The rafting trips are safe and such a great time thanks to the guides such as Pete, Angus, Luc, Sam and Cara just to name a few. Food on the pontoon and at the resort is very good with a good variety for all. They make sure all dietary needs are looked after as best as they can. I HIGHLY recommend Owl Rafting for an exciting and well worth get away if only for one night. You can do as many as you can handle. Great fun for all ages as long as you are 50 lbs and up
Caitlin M5 months ago
Have been rafting with OWL Rafting four or five times now, the first visit being over 15 years ago and the most recent visit being a couple days ago. Every trip has been a great experience, family and friends always have fun and enjoy the awesome challenge of rafting!
Guides are super friendly and skilled. Our most recent guide, Chris, made our trip so much fun and yet we felt very safe. All guides ask if everyone is comfortable to go down each rapid, so there's no pressure to actually do anything if you feel unsure.
We were on a 12 person raft for the medium intensity trip and loved it. Of our group of 8 friends, 6 had never rafted before, and now they're hooked! They'll be back again for sure.
We have also tried the 2 night package with the tandem kayak high-intensity trip, and that was also very fun! Camp site was great and food was perfect.
Thank you for another great day on the river.
Celine3 months ago
INCREDIBLE! One of the best things I've done so far in Canada. It was my first time doing white river rafting, but being a confident swimmer, I choose the extreme intensity. Falling out of the raft was very fun, and loved all the swims!
I would 100% choose this company over the others in the area. The lunch was delicious and very healthy, the staff were amazing and we had such a fun time. The starting/ending location was stunning and super fun.The only issue is that we were merged with a large group who were a little lazy and afraid to take risks, so we managed to ask for a boat of our own. I'd recommend calling in advance to see what group you'll be with. Can't recommend Owl Rafting enough!
