A Natural Marvel

The Ottawa River

A True Canadian Icon

Why the Ottawa River is Canada’s Premier Whitewater Destination

The Ottawa River is home to the most popular whitewater rafting in Canada, attracting more adventurers each year than any other river in the country. Why? Simply put, it’s the best whitewater in Canada—and that’s true no matter what time of year.

Thanks to the strategically placed dams along the river, the Ottawa River provides consistent, high-quality water levels year-round, ensuring epic rapids even during the low-water seasons. In fact, while other rivers experience a drop in water flow during summer months, the Ottawa’s summer low is often the same as other rivers’ spring flood—making it an ideal destination for rafting throughout the entire year.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rafter, the Ottawa River’s three distinct channels offer a perfect mix of rapids and challenges for all skill levels. From mellow, scenic stretches to adrenaline-pumping rapids, there’s always something to suit every adventurer’s thrill level, no matter the season.

With its stunning natural beauty and unmatched consistency, the Ottawa River is a must-visit for anyone seeking the ultimate whitewater rafting experience in Canada.

The River

Experience the Unique “Paddle Home” Adventure with Wilderness Tours on the Ottawa River

One of the most unique aspects of whitewater rafting on the Ottawa River with Wilderness Tours is the opportunity to “paddle home” after your thrilling adventure. Unlike other rafting experiences where you end your day with a shuttle ride back to base, Wilderness Tours allows you to finish your rafting journey right where you started—paddling back to the base after an exciting day on the river.

Much like how a ski resort base village is strategically located at the base of the mountain for easy access, Wilderness Tours is perfectly situated on the banks of the Ottawa River, just below the confluence of the Main and Middle Channels. This idyllic location ensures that your rafting experience is not only filled with adrenaline but also offers the convenience of paddling right back to your starting point, making it a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

This unique “paddle home” feature enhances the overall experience, allowing you to relax and take in the stunning views of the river as you make your way back to Wilderness Tours’ base—a perfect way to wrap up an unforgettable day on the Ottawa River.

Need some more information? Check out our FAQ’s section or send us an e-mail at [email protected] 
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High Adventure White Water Rafting Ontario Canada Ottawa River

The Main Channel of the Ottawa River: Home to Some of North America’s Most Powerful Whitewater

The Main Channel of the Ottawa River is renowned for its size, power, and challenging rapids, making it one of the premier whitewater destinations in North America. With some of the largest and most exhilarating commercially run whitewater rapids, it’s the ideal location for rafting enthusiasts seeking an adventure-packed experience.

At Wilderness Tours, we bring our high-adventure and sport rafting trips to this iconic stretch of river, offering participants the chance to tackle some of the most exciting and intense whitewater in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned rafter or a first-timer, the Main Channel provides an unforgettable rafting experience, with powerful rapids that will push your limits and leave you craving more.

Join us for an adventure on the Ottawa River’s Main Channel—where thrilling rapids and unmatched excitement await!

Explore the Middle Channel of the Ottawa River: Perfect for All Levels of Whitewater Rafting

The Middle Channel of the Ottawa River is a top destination for whitewater rafting, offering a wide range of rapids that cater to all levels of experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced rafter, the Middle Channel’s dynamic rapids provide a thrilling adventure that can be enjoyed in varying water levels, making it an ideal spot for rafting year-round.

The unique variety of rapids in the Middle Channel allows us to offer a diverse selection of multi-day rafting programs designed for all skill levels. From mellow, scenic sections for newcomers to fun filled rapids for seasoned rafters, there’s something for everyone on this stretch of the Ottawa River.

With its flexibility and range, the Middle Channel is perfect for dynamic multi-day rafting trips, allowing participants to experience a mix of excitement and relaxation throughout their adventure. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing or a fun whitewater challenge, the Middle Channel has it all.

sea kayak day trip ottawa river at wilderness tours

The Lower Channel of the Ottawa River is truly one of the best-kept secrets on the river, offering an incredible combination of natural beauty, tranquility, and adventure. Known for its hidden channels and rich wildlife, the Lower Channel provides a unique and unparalleled experience for those looking to explore a more serene, yet equally captivating, part of the river.

This pristine wilderness remains largely undisturbed, offering rare opportunities for wildlife viewing, scenic exploration, and an authentic outdoor adventure.

If you’re seeking a peaceful yet thrilling experience on the Ottawa River, look no further than the Lower Channel—a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and those looking to escape the crowds while still enjoying an unforgettable rafting experience.

Explore the longest untamed stretch of the Ottawa River and discover why the Lower Channel is quickly becoming a must-visit for adventurers seeking something truly special.

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