Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, there are plenty of transportation options to suit your needs. Your journey to our whitewater resort can be an adventure in itself. While most guests opt to drive their own car, other convenient options include taking a bus, renting a car, using car-sharing services, or even bringing an RV. Remember, every small effort helps in preserving the beauty of our natural world. So, gear up, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable experience at OWL Rafting!

Travel by Bus with Ontario Northland

Experience the comfort and convenience of Ontario Northland for your next whitewater rafting trip to OWL Rafting! Start your adventure by catching a bus from cities like Ottawa or Toronto to Cobden, where you’ll enjoy cushioned seats, electrical outlets, onboard washrooms, and complimentary Wi-Fi as you take in the scenic views of Northern Ontario.

To make your journey even easier, we offer shuttle services from Cobden to our rafting site on a case-by-case basis. These shuttles are typically available for $20 per person per direction, depending on staff availability. We recommend contacting us in advance to confirm shuttle availability for your preferred dates before booking your bus ticket. With friendly drivers and a smooth, comfortable ride, Ontario Northland and our shuttle service make for a seamless start to your adventure at OWL Rafting!

Schedule Your Trip: Ontario Northland Schedules

Memorable Adventures with CanaDream RV Rentals

Traveling to OWL Rafting with CanaDream can be a memorable adventure. Renting an RV allows you to enjoy the journey with family and friends all in one spot. Whether you choose the spacious Maxi Motorhome or the cozy Deluxe Van Camper, you’ll have comforts like a kitchen, bathroom, and cozy sleeping arrangements. Imagine coming together with your loved ones, blasting your favorite road trip music, and enjoying the scenic route. An RV experience offers a very comfortable space where beautiful moments can happen before you hit the water at OWL Rafting. CanaDream Club members also benefit from exclusive discounts and helpful planning tools.

Rent an RV: CanaDream

Flexibility with Rental Cars

Renting a car for your trip to OWL Rafting gives you the freedom to explore Ontario’s beautiful landscapes at your own pace. Whether you’re departing from Ottawa, Toronto, or elsewhere, the drive is straightforward and picturesque, making the journey part of the adventure. Once you arrive, you’ll find plenty of free parking at OWL Rafting. A rental car is perfect for carrying large or heavy personal belongings and camping equipment, adding convenience for families or groups.

Rent a Car: Rental Cars

Easy Travel with Evo Car Share

Traveling to OWL Rafting with Evo is a breeze. Use the app as your gateway to convenient transportation. With real-time maps, you can quickly find and book cars or e-bikes (we don’t recommend biking to our resort), whether you’re planning ahead or need to get moving right away. Reserve a free-floating Evo, which you can pick up and drop off anywhere within the Home Zone, up to 30 minutes in advance, or book an Evo Return up to 30 days ahead. Just find a car, unlock it with the app, and enjoy a smooth, effortless trip to your destination.

Download the App: Evo

Start Your Whitewater Rafting Adventure Today!

No matter which transportation option you choose, your journey to OWL Rafting will be part of the adventure. Enjoy the ride, make memories, and experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Ottawa River. Book your trip now and let the excitement begin!

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Sources

• https://www.tripadvisor.ca/HotelsNear-g2167038-d265229-OWL_Rafting-Foresters_Falls_Township_of_Whitewater_Region_Ontario.html
• https://vancouversun.com/news/evo-car-share-reverses-800-charge-and-offers-tips-for-ending-trips
• https://www.ontarionorthland.ca/en/travel/schedules
• https://evo.ca/car-share-app
• https://www.canadream.com/service/
•  https://zurl.co/yh6g
• https://www.ontarionorthland.ca/en/travel/schedules

Photo Credit: https://anishinabeknews.ca/2015/06/10/development-on-the-chaudiere-falls-no/

Here in Canada, June is Indigenous History Month. But we recognize our Indigenous brothers and sisters every day. OWL Rafting, our proud third-generation family-owned business, has been hosting adventurers of all ages on the stunning Ottawa River. We recognize the deep and inherent connection between the Kitchisippi – the Ottawa River – and the Algonquin peoples who have called this place home since time immemorial. We’re grateful for their enduring legacy and how it enriches our daily lives. So, come along with us as we journey through the Indigenous history of the Ottawa River. Together, we’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this beautiful region and the stories it holds. Let’s discuss: 

1)Ottawa River History

2)The Algonquin Nation

3)Canoe Culture

4)Sacred Sites & Spiritual Connection

5)Honouring Indigenous History Month

The Ottawa River: A Historical Lifeline

The history of the Ottawa River is deeply intertwined with that of the Algonquin people. Known as “Kitchissippi” meaning the “big river” or “grand river” in Anishinaabemowin, the Algonquin language, this mighty river is the “main artery” of Algonquin territory, with their homelands encompassing all of the Ottawa River watershed. Flowing through unceded Algonquin territory, the Kitchisippi has always been a vital transportation route for trade and travel, a gathering place for ceremony and celebration, and a rich source of sustenance for thousands of years. The Algonquin people are the original stewards of this land.

The Kitchisippi has long been a gathering place for Algonquin peoples and numerous other indigenous nations who have paddled these waters.

The Algonquin Nation 

The Algonquin people have a rich history and deep connection to the Ottawa River watershed, dating back at least 12,000 years, with oral traditions stating their presence since time immemorial. Their ancestors were semi-nomadic hunter-gatherers who used birch bark canoes for transportation and relied on the rivers for hunting, fishing, and gathering. 

European contact began in 1613 with Samuel de Champlain, leading to significant changes and challenges for the Algonquin people. The fur trade, initiated in the 1530s, and the subsequent Beaver Wars (1640-1701) brought conflict and displacement. Despite hardships, the Algonquins maintain their cultural heritage and connection to the land.

• Sources:
  • https://waaseyaaconsulting.ca/blog/brief-history-of-the-madaoueskarini-algonquin-people 
  • https://ottawariver.org/pdf/05-ch2-3.pdf

Canoe Culture

Since time immemorial, birch bark canoes have played a fundamental role in the lives of Algonquin people. The canoe enables them to travel extensive distances and connect their communities. However, the continued impacts of colonization have led to an interruption in their relationships with this ancestral craft. They are (re)connecting and (re)learning knowledge and practices, including how to build a birch bark canoe. A canoe is built in ceremony and with intention. 

At OWL Rafting, we pay homage to this rich canoe culture by sharing the Algonquin people’s travel routes with our guests – but in a different craft; a raft designed for big whitewater.

• Source: https://waaseyaaconsulting.ca/blog/omamiwinini-wiigwas-chiiman-algonquin-birch-bark-canoe 

Sacred Sites & Spiritual Connection 

The Ottawa River is home to many sacred sites, deeply revered by Algonquin communities for their cultural and spiritual significance as meeting places, portage sites, and trade routes. 

Chaudière Falls: The Chaudière Falls, best known as Akikpautik, and Islands have been a sacred meeting place for over 5,000 years, predating the Great Pyramid and Stonehenge. Samuel de Champlain witnessed Algonquin ceremonies here in 1613. The area, in Algonquin territory, was a neutral meeting place where people from vast distances would gather peacefully, leaving their weapons behind. This tradition ended with European settlement and industrialization.

In 1908, the Ring Dam submerged the Chaudière Falls, once a major tourist attraction. Ottawa’s bid to become Canada’s capital included paintings of the Falls, influencing Queen Victoria’s decision. Prime Minister Mackenzie King’s 1950 Master Plan for Ottawa envisioned restoring the Falls as a central park. The National Capital Commission, established in 1958, implemented these plans, purchasing industrial land to free the shoreline. 

Algonquin leader William Commanda advocated for undamming the Falls, creating parkland, and establishing an Indigenous peace and healing center, a vision supported by many and recognized by the Order of Canada. Work is still being done to restore this sacred place.

• Sources:
  • https://anishinabeknews.ca/2016/10/01/chaudiere-falls-is-an-indigenous-cathedral/ 

Oiseau Rock: This site is located along the Ottawa River near Sheenboro, Quebec. This towering rock face rises over 150 meters above the river and features ancient pictographs created by Indigenous peoples. These pictographs, painted in red ochre, depict various symbols and figures, believed to have been created for spiritual and ceremonial purposes. Oiseau Rock is a testament to the deep spiritual connection Indigenous peoples have with the land and the river. It served as a place of vision quests, where individuals sought guidance and spiritual insight.

• Sources: https://albinger.me/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/friends-of-oiseau-rock-sacred-aboriginal-site-ottawa-river.pdf 

Important Note: INTERACT RESPECTFULLY WITH INDIGENOUS LANDS. Visitor activity can create additional challenges or increase vulnerability for the Indigenous community you are visiting. Wildfires, stranded or injured backcountry visitors, and increased pollution of waters and lands place extra strain on Indigenous communities and resources. If you can’t keep away, please enrich your experience by developing your respect for the water, plants, and animals that have sustained the people for millennia. Take direction for your adventure and wildlife experience from local Indigenous guides.

• Source: https://www.indigenousbc.com/how-to-travel-responsibly 

Honouring Indigenous History Month

This Indigenous History Month, we invite you to join us in honouring the profound history and culture of the Algonquin peoples along the Ottawa River. Whether navigating the rapids or enjoying the serene beauty of the river, take a moment to reflect on the deep connections between the land, water, and the Algonquin communities who have cherished this region for generations.

Are you interested in learning more about the Indigenous history of your current homelands? Here’s a good resource > 

Note: Dear reader, We welcome your feedback. We recognize the profound distortions and omissions that have characterized indigenous history. If you have any suggestions for improvement or any pertinent information to contribute, contact us. We are committed to making necessary revisions to ensure accuracy and respect.

We would like to give a very special thank you to Waaseyaa Consulting for sharing their knowledge and insightful perspective on this topic. 

1)Whitewater Rafting Trip

2)Kayaking & Canoeing Course

3)E-Bike Rentals

4)Bungee Jumping

5)Zip Lining

6)Camp Fortune Adventures

7)Trail Cycling & Hiking 

Whitewater Rafting Trip

Adventure Level: Low – High

Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Ottawa River, just 90 minutes west of downtown Ottawa. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rafter, there’s a route for every skill and age level. Your knowledgeable guide will lead the way as you navigate through exhilarating rapids and enjoy breathtaking views of the Canadian Shield. After your adventure, relax and indulge in a delicious grilled buffet on OWL Rafting’s signature Pontoon Boats as you cruise back to the resort. It’s a perfect day out for the whole family!

Distance from Ottawa: 123km / 1.25hr drive          

More Details > 

Whitewater Kayaking & Canoeing Course

Adventure Level: Medium – High 

The Madawaska Kanu Centre provides full-day and multi-day kayak and canoe instruction in and around Ottawa. Additionally, the Ottawa River Runners offer children, cadets, and youth the opportunity to enhance their whitewater kayaking skills under the expert guidance of club coaches. Their program includes small group local sessions and introductory river runs, with entry contingent on participants meeting specific skill levels, as verified by instructors or the head coach.

Distance from Ottawa: 204.3 km / 2.45hr drive 

More Details >

E-Bike Rentals

Adventure Level: Low

Explore the stunning scenery of the Ottawa Valley or Algonquin Park with an E-bike rental. These electric bikes are eco-friendly and easy to ride, making them perfect for families. Cruise along winding trails and enjoy the fresh air as you create lasting memories with your loved ones. It’s a fantastic way to reconnect with nature and each other!

Distance from Ottawa: 47.2 km /1.2 hr drive 

More Details >

Bungee Jumping

Adventure Level: High

For the ultimate adrenaline rush, try bungee jumping in the Ottawa region. Plunge 200 feet into a stunning blue lagoon and conquer your fears alongside your family. With top-notch safety gear and expert staff, you can enjoy this thrilling experience with peace of mind. Afterward, relax at Morrison’s Quarry Beach and Picnic area and relive the excitement of your jump. It’s an adventure you’ll never forget!

Distance from Ottawa: 31.0 km / 38 min drive 

More Details >

Zip Lining

Adventure Level: Medium

Zip through nature just outside of Ottawa and experience the thrill of a lifetime. Glide through the canyon and tackle obstacle courses among the towering pines. For the more adventurous, try the Via Ferrata, a climbing and hiking experience above the Coulonge River. With options for all skill levels, it’s the perfect family adventure!

Distance from Ottawa:  31.0 km / 37 min drive  

More Details > 

Camp Fortune Adventures

Adventure Level: Medium

Camp Fortune is the ultimate destination for an exciting getaway. From the thrilling Mountain Coaster to the challenging Aerial Park, there’s something for everyone. Glide between peaks on the Peak to Peak Zipline or explore picturesque mountain biking trails. With delicious food options and its proximity to downtown Ottawa, Camp Fortune promises a memorable outing for the whole family.

Distance from Ottawa: 22.1 km / 34 min 

More Details > 

Trail Cycling & Hiking

Adventure Level: Low – Medium

Explore the trails at Calabogie Peaks for some epic cycling and hiking opportunities. From wide, flat sections to challenging terrain, there’s something for every skill level. Bring your bike and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area with your family.

Distance from Ottawa: 109 km / 1.31hr drive 

More Details > 

Final Notes

This summer, make memories that will last a lifetime with these exciting adventures in Ottawa. Whether you’re seeking thrills or looking to relax in nature, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. So, grab your loved ones, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready for an unforgettable summer in Ottawa!

If you’re struggling to figure out the perfect Canadian vacation for your crew, we’ve compiled a list of our most popular trips and packages. Read along as we outline the itineraries and details of our top 5 whitewater adventures:

      1. Adventure Whitewater Rafting | Day Trip

      2. Soft Adventure Whitewater Rafting | Day Trip

      3. Sport Whitewater Rafting – Stay & Raft | 2-Day Trip

      4. Low + Medium Raft Package | 3-Day Trip

      5. Adventure Raft and Resort | 3-Day Trip

1. Adventure Whitewater Rafting | Day Trip

Enjoy a full-day of Adventure Whitewater Rafting on the Ottawa River with our experienced guides! Paddle alongside your rafting crew, while indulging in body surfing and/or cliff jumping. After journeying the world-renowned rapids, you’ll finish off an awesome day by hopping on our signature Pontoon Boat Cruise to enjoy a hot and delicious buffet-style meal. You’ll cruise back to the OWL Resort via the historical route of the First Nations, the Voyageurs and the Log Drive, viewing the rugged beauty of the Canadian Shield. At the end of an awesome day of rafting and ​​camaraderie, there will be a video recap of your epic adventure! 

• Duration: 8 Hours (1 Day)
• Intensity: Medium
• Minimum Weight Requirement: 90lb (41kg)

Reserve Your Spots >

2. Soft Adventure Whitewater Rafting | Day Trip

Experience Soft Adventure Whitewater Rafting, a great Canadian river trip – this introduction to whitewater is a full day natural roller coaster where you’ll paddle as a team. Your experienced guide steers from the stern – all you have to do is listen for directions, join in and have fun. This soft adventure trip descends 8 km of beautiful scenery and tumbling whitewater, interspersed with quiet pools where you get to body surf and float in the friendly warm waters. As the currents calm down, we transfer to the comfort of our signature Pontoon Boat to enjoy a freshly grilled meal. Relax and reenergize while you cruise back to the OWL Resort and take in the beauty of the Canadian Shield. At the resort a video presentation will let you relive your day’s adventure. Here the fun can continue on our sandy beach, where kayaks, canoes and stand-up-paddle boards are in abundance for guest use. This trip is perfect for groups with younger kids, or participants that are hesitant to adventure out on whitewater!

• Duration: 8 Hours (1 Day)
• Intensity: Low
• Minimum Weight Requirement: 50lb (23kg)

Reserve Your Spots > 

3. Sport Whitewater Rafting – Stay & Raft | 2-Day Trip

Our ​Sport Whitewater Rafting – Stay & Raft is a 2 day (1 night) high-intensity whitewater rafting excursion on the Ottawa River. As you journey the river with 7 other enthusiastic rafters and your professional whitewater guide, you will all be able to enjoy activities like body surfing and cliff jumping (where possible). After some wild whitewater fun your team will inevitably approach calming waters. This will serve as a sign that it’s time to cruise back to the OWL Resort via our Pontoon Boats and enjoy a grilled buffet (a favorite amongst our guests). At the resort, it’s time for some much needed outdoor relaxation. Utilize amenities like a floating swim dock, SUPs, kayaks, canoes, a bike pump track, life-size maze, frisbee golf, beach volleyball, and a hot sauna. Guests are welcome to bring their own alcoholic beverages. Ice cream, snacks, cold drinks and ice are available for sale on site. 

Spend Night 1 with us at the resort, making the most of our facilities. On Night 2, gear up for an adventurous day conquering the rapids!

• Duration: 2 Days (1 Night)
• Intensity: High
• Minimum Weight Requirement: 90lb (41kg)

Reserve Your Spots > 

4. Low and Medium Raft Package | 3-Day Trip

The 3-day Low + Medium Intensity Whitewater Rafting Package is a family-friendly package that caters to mixed-intensity interests within families and is designed for a gentle introduction to the world of whitewater rafting on the Ottawa River. 

Begin your journey with a serene low-intensity trip, ideal for children and a leisurely cruise over fresh whitewater. Then, elevate the excitement with our medium-intensity Adventure Rafting experience by paddling, splashing and rolling through more challenging routes with the opportunities to cliff jump, body surf, and float on the river. Both river trips end with our unique BBQ Pontoon Boat cruise, where you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared grilled buffet while viewing the rugged Canadian Shield landscapes. Back at the resort, your guides will show a video presentation where you can relive your day’s adventure!

The fun doesn’t end at the resort – enjoy frisbee golf, beach volleyball, and riverside relaxation. Explore our floating swim dock, slide, SUPs, kayaks, canoes, bike pump track, life-size maze, and hot sauna as well! Bring your own alcoholic beverages as we don’t carry any, and enjoy the convenience of purchasing ice cream, snacks, cold drinks, and ice during your stay.

• Duration: 3 Days (2 Night)
• Intensity: Low, Medium
• Minimum Weight Requirement: 90lb (41kg)

Reserve Your Spots > 

5. Adventure Whitewater Rafting and Resort Package | 3-Day Trip

Enjoy our 3-Day Adventure Whitewater Rafting and Resort Package, featuring exhilarating whitewater rafting adventures and a day of relaxation at the OWL waterfront resort.

Paddle, splash, and roll down more challenging routes of the Ottawa River for a full day excursion. Your experienced and passionate guide controls the raft using oars at the back, while you are paddling with your crew. You’ll get a chance to body surf and float, and possibly do some cliff jumping too – it’s up to the river! As the currents calm down, we transfer to the comfort of our signature Pontoon Boat where your dry clothes and a feast of freshly prepared grilled buffet awaits. Relax and reenergize while you cruise back to the OWL Resort via the historical route of the First Nations viewing the rugged beauty of the Canadian Shield. Once back at the resort your guides will show a video presentation where you can relive your day’s adventure!

At our resort, you have the option to play a round of frisbee golf, a game of beach volleyball, or relax on the beach. We also boast a large floating swim dock right off shore, a bike pump track and a life size maze. Ice cream, snacks, cold drinks and ice are available for sale on site. The resort is not a licensed establishment so our guests are welcome to bring their own alcoholic beverages.

• Duration: 3 Days (2 Night)
• Intensity: Medium
• Minimum Weight Requirement: 90lb (41kg)

Reserve Your Spots > 

We hope you consider adding an OWL Rafting experience to your summer bucket list, as we’d love to host you at our riverside resort. For any inquiries or questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us >

Note: You can purchase online gift cards on our website! These make a wonderful and thoughtful holiday gift. 

1) What is whitewater rafting?

2) What are the different classes of rapids?

3) What do I need to wear for whitewater rafting?

4) Do I need any experience to go whitewater rafting?

5) Are there age restrictions for whitewater rafting?

6) Do I need to know how to swim to go whitewater rafting?

7) What kind of equipment is provided on a whitewater rafting trip?

8) How long does a typical whitewater rafting trip last?

9) Is whitewater rafting safe?

10) What can I bring on a whitewater rafting trip?

11) Can I bring a camera or phone on the raft?

12) Are there different levels of whitewater rafting trips?

13) What is the best season for whitewater rafting?

14) Is tipping the rafting guides customary?

15) Can I go whitewater rafting if I have a medical condition or disability?

Whitewater rafting is one of our very favourite things to do! 

After 42+ years of introducing folks to the world-class whitewater of the Ottawa River, we consider ourselves specialists in the matter. Here are some common questions we receive about OWL Rafting whitewater trips:  

1.What is whitewater rafting?

Whitewater rafting is a recreational activity in which a group of individuals board a large inflatable raft that can hold up to 12 people and paddles down a river with rapids and turbulent water. It’s an exciting and adventurous water sport that’s enjoyed by families, friends, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and corporate team building groups!

2. What are the different classes of rapids?

Whitewater rapids are classified on a scale from I to VI, with Class I being the least difficult to navigate and Class VI being extremely risky (and unnavigable). Most commercial rafting trips focus on Class II to Class IV rapids. 

The Ottawa River rapids are rated as Class I to V. Although it has some more extreme rapids, it’s world-renowned for its big waters. The depth of the river (meaning less rocks) and large pools downstream make this a friendly river for whitewater kayakers, canoeists and rafters alike. Additionally, its warm summer temperatures and epic surfing waves make for a perfectly exciting day on this picturesque Canadian river!

3.What do I need to wear for whitewater rafting?

Appropriate clothes to wear rafting includes a swimsuit or moisture-wicking synthetic clothing, a wetsuit (if the water is cold), and secure footwear like water shoes, running shoes, sandals with a backstrap (no flip flops or Crocs), or neoprene booties. On days that are really hot, it’s recommended to also bring sunscreen, a buff or bandana, and a sun shirt. On cold days, consider wool layers! Cotton materials are not recommended as once they get wet, it uses your body’s heat to dry, leaving you very cold. For more recommendations, check out our ‘Plan Your Visit’ page. 

4. Do I need any experience to go whitewater rafting?

No experience is required to whitewater rafting with us. For first-time rafters we offer 2 lower intensity trips that are the perfect introduction to whitewater: Soft Adventure Rafting & Adventure Rafting. Our experienced whitewater guides will provide necessary safety gear, instructions, and paddle training at the beginning of your trip!

5. Are there age restrictions for whitewater rafting?

Age restrictions can vary by company and river, but our trips do not have any age restrictions – only minimum weight restrictions as per the life jacket regulations from Transport Canada. Our Soft Adventure Rafting trips require that all participants be at least 50lbs (23kg), while our Adventure Rafting and Sport Rafting trips require all participants to be at least 90lbs (41kg). This helps us ensure that all our safety gear is effective on the river!

6. Do I need to know how to swim to go whitewater rafting?

While it can be helpful to know how to swim, it’s not a requirement at OWL Rafting. Every rafter is equipped with safety gear, including life jackets, and guides are taught techniques to get everyone back in the boat should anyone end up in the water. Everyone is required to be OK with getting wet!

7. What kind of equipment is provided on a whitewater rafting trip?

We provide all of our rafting guests with life jackets, helmets, paddle, and of course, the rafts. We also offer wetsuits and splash jackets if the water is cold. You can purchase rafting appropriate shoes and other accessories in our on-site gift shop.

8. How long does a typical whitewater rafting trip last?

All of our whitewater rafting trips have a duration of 8 hours from the time you arrive on site to the time you leave. All of our day trips include a morning briefing, shuttle to the river put-in, rafting, snack and juice break, BBQ pontoon meal cruise, and a trip video. It’s a FULL day of epic fun!

9. Is whitewater rafting safe?

Risks are minimized on commercial whitewater rafting trips when conducted by experienced and safety-focused guides. They are trained in safety protocols and know the river conditions. However, there are inherent risks in any outdoor activity, so it’s important to follow the guide’s instructions and wear appropriate safety gear. At OWL Rafting, our biggest focus is your safety on and off the river. 

10. What can I bring on a whitewater rafting trip?

You should bring essentials like sunscreen, a water bottle (with a carabiner), and any necessary medications. Be sure to check with your guide for specific recommendations on what to bring and what to leave behind.  

11. Can I bring a camera or phone on the raft?

It is not generally recommended to bring a personal camera or phone on your rafting trip. Due to the adventurous nature of this activity, you should not bring anything on the trip that you are not prepared to lose. You must also consider potential water damage. The good news is that on every trip, a video boater will paddle alongside your crew to capture your entire experience. The video and photos will be available for viewing and purchase afterwards!

12. Are there different levels of whitewater rafting trips?

Yes, there are trips ranging from family-friendly floats to more challenging and adventurous runs. At OWL Rafting, we offer low intensity, medium intensity and high intensity trips for all skill and comfort levels. We want everyone to have the best experience possible! 

13. What is the best season for whitewater rafting?

The best time for whitewater rafting on the Ottawa River is Spring and Summer due to snow melt and warmer water temperatures. The coolest thing about the Ottawa River is that the water levels are always changing, resulting in varying runnable rapids and river channels. You’ll never go on the same rafting trip twice!

14. Is tipping the rafting guides customary?

Tipping is a common practice in the outdoor industry. It’s always very appreciated if you had a positive experience. At OWL Rafting, we accept cash tips and e-transfers (you can send them to owltriptips at gmail.com). You may specify if a tip is for an individual crew member who made your experience special, otherwise the tip is shared with all of our staff! 

15. Can I go whitewater rafting if I have a medical condition or disability? 

If safety wasn’t a concern, we would opt to take everyone rafting! However, because the safety of guests is a top concern of ours, we urge those with medical conditions and disabilities to communicate their needs and concerns in advance. Just keep in mind that we aren’t medical professionals and may refer you to ask your doctor for medical advice.

Final Note: Remember that the answers to these questions listed above are specific to OWL Rafting. They may vary depending on the location and rafting company, so it’s essential to do your research and contact the company you plan to raft with to get the most accurate information for your trip. Please contact our office team if you have any further questions!