TAKING EFFECT IN 2022: WILDERNESS TOURS TO PROVIDE FREE TAKEOUT ACCESS TO THE PADDLING COMMUNITY.

Foresters Falls, Ontario – November 25, 2021

Following the last 6 years of pay-per-use takeout access, Wilderness Tours is removing access fees for private paddlers to provide a more equitable opportunity for all to experience the Ottawa River.

The pay-per-use fee structure for paddler’s takeout access was to offset the costs associated with providing this service to the public; including road maintenance, snow removal, emergency response, waste collection, theft, vandalism clean-up, insurance, and liability.

Wilderness Tours recognizes the strain the paid model has had on the community and the barriers it placed for some paddlers. We’ve reflected on this and with our core value of “sharing the magic of whitewater” we are committed to access to the Ottawa River and to supporting the long-term growth and development of the whitewater community.

Starting in 2022, a simple check-in at our entrance reception office is all that will be required for takeout access. Complete 2022 park policies and access information will be published soon.

This is a long-term commitment to access that we feel is in line with our renewed commitment to community, economic equity, and to benefit our local tourism community who also depend on access to the world-class whitewater as part of their own destination marketing.

See you on the water,

Joe, Joel, and Katie Kowalski

Owners, Wilderness Tours Raft & Kayak Resort / Ottawa Kayak School

1260 Grants Settlement Rd, Foresters Falls ON, Canada

1-888-723-8669

[email protected]