Leave the city at dawn and return with river stories: this full-day shuttle from Ottawa to OWL Rafting combines guided whitewater runs, a pontoon meal cruise, and hands-off logistics. It’s an easy way to sample some of the Ottawa River’s most dynamic rapids in a single, scenic day.
Leave the city at dawn and return with river stories: this full-day shuttle from Ottawa to OWL Rafting combines guided whitewater runs, a pontoon meal cruise, and hands-off logistics. It’s an easy way to sample some of the Ottawa River’s most dynamic rapids in a single, scenic day.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by OWL Rafting on the Ottawa River · Foresters Falls, Ontario
moderate.
12 hours.
Moderate: ability to sit and paddle for short bursts, climb in/out of a raft, and tolerate long active day outdoors.
The shuttle meets downtown Ottawa at the Lord Elgin Hotel for morning departures; confirm exact pickup time on your booking confirmation.
Plan for approximately 12 hours from pickup in Ottawa to return to the Lord Elgin Hotel.
No — guides provide instruction and safety gear, making the trip suitable for first-time rafters comfortable with active days.
Minimum ages vary by operator; check OWL Rafting's booking rules but families with older children commonly take part.
Wear a swimsuit or quick-dry layers, secure water shoes, and bring a lightweight top for sun protection.
Yes — bring a waterproof case or small dry bag; keep devices stowed during challenging rapids per guide instructions.
The Ottawa River was a major trade and timber route and remains central to the cultural landscape of the Algonquin people.
Practice Leave No Trace along shorelines, avoid disturbing wildlife, and rinse gear to prevent spreading aquatic invasive species.
OWL Rafting on the Ottawa River operates from Foresters Falls, Ontario, offering guided whitewater rafting and waterfront resort experiences on the Ottawa River. The company presents a wide range of trips and packages, including half-day intro trips, soft-adventure options for lighter children, medium and high intensity sport rafting, and multi-day stay-and-raft resort packages. Many packages combine guided rafting with on-site resort amenities such as meals, pontoon cruises, a floating swim dock, frisbee golf, and beach volleyball. Paddler Camping provides a first-come, first-served camping option for kayakers and canoers, with trailers and RVs welcome at the site. Family-focused trips note weight guidelines—for example, some soft-adventure trips accept children over 50 pounds—while sport and adventure options are available for experienced rafters seeking higher-intensity rapids. Several packages include a video recap of the trip and a pontoon boat return to the resort for post-rafting relaxation and a BBQ or communal meal. Guides and staff lead guests on river sections that vary by intensity, emphasizing safety and guided instruction tailored to each group's experience level. Bookings are available for groups and individuals, and many trips include safety briefings, lifejackets, and equipment suitable for varying river conditions and skill levels and on-site staff support.
Book with OWL Rafting on the Ottawa River