Looking for perfect paddling options this summer in Ottawa? Check out rentals, lessons and access points on the many waterways in the region.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing activity or something to get your adrenaline pumping, Ottawa has a water-based adventure for you! With world-class rapids perfect for white water rafting and numerous waterways where you can rent stand up paddle boards, peddle boats, kayaks and more, getting out on the water has never been so fun.
Explore water activities in the Ottawa
Epic whitewater adventures on the Ottawa River
Get your whitewater fix—a gentle splash or world-class high adventure—by rafting, tubing and kayaking within the city or in Ottawa’s nearby countryside.
Outdoor activities in Ottawa: a summer 2024 itinerary
Start planning your epic outdoor visit to Ottawa!
Water activity-based businesses in the Ottawa area
Aventure Outaouais
Guided tour operator offering over 20 different all-inclusive experiences in the Outaouais region.
Calabogie Peaks Resort
Four-season leisure destination in the Ottawa Valley offering hiking, skiing, golf, event venues, boutique hotel accommodations and more.
Eco-Odyssée
Discover the beaver habitat while travelling through a water maze that comprises more than 60 intersections spread out over 6 km.
Escape Tours & Rentals
Enjoy views of city sights as you paddle the Ottawa River in downtown Ottawa-Gatineau in a rental kayak or on a standup paddleboard (SUP). Bike rentals also available!
Gatineau Park
Swim, hike, bike, camp, cross-country ski, snowshoe or visit heritage sites amid towering trees and rocky outcrops in this expansive park just 15 minutes from Ottawa.
National Capital Greenbelt
Hike, bike, cross-country ski, learn about nature and visit heritage sites in this environmental gem, which encircles Ottawa with 20,000 hectares (almost 50,000 acres) of wetlands, woods and other unspoiled green spaces.
Upcoming water-based events in Ottawa
Learn-to Paddle
Join Parks Canada this summer at Hartwells Lock in Ottawa for a free Learn-to Paddle program. The experienced paddle team will introduce visitors to…
Light at Night Kayaking
Join in for an enchanting "Light at Night" kayaking experience in downtown Ottawa. This 2.5 hour, 5.5km paddle along the Rideau Canal offers a perfect…
Explore even more outdoor activities in Ottawa
Running and hiking in the Ottawa area
Running and hiking outdoor activities in the Ottawa area.
Cycling and mountain biking in the Ottawa area
Get easy access to urban and rural pathways, plus tours, events and more in Canada’s capital.
Outdoor rock climbing and spelunking in the Ottawa area
Discover the best outdoor rock climbing and spelunking activities in the Ottawa area.
