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
![OWL Rafting](/sites/default/files/images/2021/05/Soft-adventure-credit-OWL-Rafting-on-the-Ottawa-River.jpg)
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.
![Great Canadian Bungee Great Canadian Bungee](/sites/default/files/images/2020/02/Bungee-high-jum-facing-the-camera-DSC04590-credit-GREAT-CANADIAN-BUNGEE_0.jpg)
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 Aventure Outaouais](/sites/default/files/images/2024/05/Aventure-Outaouais.png)
Aventure Outaouais
Guided tour operator offering over 20 different all-inclusive experiences in the Outaouais region.
![Calabogie Peaks Resort Calabogie Peaks Resort](/sites/default/files/images/2024/06/Calabogie-Peaks-Resort-FB.jpg)
Calabogie Peaks Resort
Four-season leisure destination in the Ottawa Valley offering hiking, skiing, golf, event venues, boutique hotel accommodations and more.
![Eco-Odyssée Eco-Odyssée](/sites/default/files/images/2020/03/DJI_0008-1-credit-Eco-Odyssee-Regional-Park.jpg)
Eco-Odyssée
Discover the beaver habitat while travelling through a water maze that comprises more than 60 intersections spread out over 6 km.
![Locations Escape Locations Escape](/sites/default/files/images/2022/07/Locations-Escape-IMG_4739.jpg)
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!
![kayaking kayaking](/sites/default/files/images/2024/09/kayak-AdobeStock_281861435.jpg)
Farran Park Beach
Head to this sandy St. Lawrence River beach for sunbathing, swimming, boating and seasonal family fun just an hour from Ottawa.
![Snowshoeing in Gatineau Park Snowshoeing in Gatineau Park](/sites/default/files/images/2024/11/Snowshoeing-Gatineau-Park-2017-0496-credit-National-Capital-Commission-NCC.jpg)
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.
Upcoming water-based events in Ottawa
![Tim Hortons Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival](/sites/default/files/styles/card_image_960x560/public/externals/8e12b35482a1c2901e5555ba4a590517.jpg?itok=Yc0fBt4l)
Tim Hortons Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival
This free multi-day summer festival on the Rideau River—the largest event of its kind in North America—features racing, concerts, family fun, local…
Explore even more outdoor activities in Ottawa
![Dominion Arboretum in Winter, Central Experimental Farm Dominion Arboretum in Winter, Central Experimental Farm](/sites/default/files/images/2024/11/Dominion-Arboretum-Winter-0074-credit-Ottawa-Tourism.jpg)
Running and hiking in the Ottawa area
Running and hiking outdoor activities in the Ottawa area.
![Rideau Canal Pathway, Cycling, Fall Rideau Canal Pathway, Cycling, Fall](/sites/default/files/images/2024/08/Cycling-credit-NCC.jpg)
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.
![Arbraska Laflèche, climbing in caves Arbraska Laflèche, climbing in caves](/sites/default/files/images/2024/08/LAFLECHE-climbing-in-caves-048-credit-Arbraska-Lafleche.jpg)
Outdoor rock climbing and spelunking in the Ottawa area
Discover the best outdoor rock climbing and spelunking activities in the Ottawa area.