Maksym KuzaievWhen I first tried kayaking, I believed I was an exceptional adventurer—until I got trapped in a reed patch for 10 minutes! My friends stood onshore, laughing so hard they could barely breathe—safe to say, my ‘paddling career’ didn’t exactly make waves.
But I kept going back. Why? Because Ottawa has some of the most stunning canoe and kayak spots that are perfect for beginners, pros, and even those of us destined to be ‘reed wranglers’.
Whether you want peaceful paddles, scenic routes, or just a chance to show off your skills (or lack thereof), these gems we listed will make you fall in love with the water. So, keep reading and start planning your trip!
Ottawa River
– Media credit: cmac7_8
Expertise: Easy to Intermediate
Distance: Approximately 1,271 km (spans across Ontario and Quebec)
Shops/Rentals in and nearby: Ottawa Outdoor Gear, Escape Tours
Fees: None
The Ottawa River, spanning 1,721 km, is a classic favourite for canoers and kayakers looking to experience a great paddling route—it’s perfectly accessible from downtown!
It’s known for its diverse water conditions that are perfect for any level. Surrounding you as you paddle are lush forests and beautiful riverside views.
There are several entry points along the river, some of which have a parking spot and facilities to make the experience smooth. If you don’t have your gear, there are rental shops available around the popular launch points.
| Pro tip: Check out the white-water sections if you’re feeling adventurous. Remember to look at the local river conditions before heading out, as water levels here can significantly change the experience. |
Rideau Canal
– Media credit: danielllehammondd
Expertise: Easy
Distance: Approximately 202 km (connects Ottawa to Kingston)
Shops/Rentals in and nearby: Rideau Tours, Escape Tours
Fees: None
The Rideau Canal is a must-paddle spot, offering a calm and serene experience right in the heart of Ottawa. This 202-km UNESCO World Heritage Site is primarily known for its picturesque waterway.
The canal’s waters are relatively still and ideal for a leisurely paddle, with historical landmarks, beautiful pathways, and parks surrounding you.
Facilities along the canal are abundant, including entry points with convenient parking. Furthermore, kayak and canoe rentals are available at Dow’s Lake Pavilion, one of the more popular spots to begin your journey.
| Pro tip: Rideau Canal transforms into the world’s largest natural skating rink during winter, so make sure to experience skating here as well! |
Petrie Island Beach
– Media credit: petriecanoe
Expertise: Easy
Distance: Varies (depending on trails, beach area about 2 to 3 km)
Shops/Rentals in and nearby: Petrie Island Marina, Riverview Mobile Kayak Rental
Fees: None
Petrie Island Beach, located about 25 kilometres from downtown Ottawa, is part of a larger conservation area and provides a beautiful experience. The water here is gentle and shallow, so it’s suitable for a relaxing bit of paddling.
The surrounding wetland area is home to an impressive array of wildlife, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Beautiful sandy beaches and picnic spots enhance the experience, along with several facilities like ample parking, restrooms, and concession stands. Rentals is also available on-site!
| Pro tip: Make the most of your experience by strolling through the Petrie Island Nature trails, known for their picturesque views and local wildlife. |
Dow’s Lake
– Media credit: gwesleygraham
Expertise: Easy
Distance: Approximately 2 km for a leisurely paddle around the lake
Shops/Rentals in and nearby: Dow’s Lake Pavillion
Fees: Rental fees for equipment only
Nestled within the National Capital Commission’s Dominion Arboretum, Dow’s Lake is actually a part of the Rideau Canal system. It’s not uncommon to see dragon boats or pedal boats sharing the water here!
This lake is more of a recreational hub, though, offering calm waters that are terrific for learning and fun for families. Facilities in the area include rentals, washrooms, paid parking, and easy access to the water.
Its pavilion is a bustling spot where you can get everything from a quick snack to full meals after a morning of paddling.
| Pro tip: If you head out in May, you might catch the Canadian Tulip Festival happening nearby, providing a stunning floral backdrop for your paddle. |
Bate Island
– Media credit: holerider
Expertise: Easy
Distance: Approximately 800 metres long (small recreational area only)
Shops/Rentals in and nearby: None nearby
Fees: None
Along the Ottawa River, you’ll find Bate Island. It’s a must-visit for all paddlers who want to kayak or canoe surrounded by gorgeous river views and green spaces.
The small island is part of the Champlain Bridge and provides easy access to calm stretches of the river. The water conditions here vary, depending on the area you choose to explore, but much of it is gentle and welcoming.
The best part is how accessible the island is for a casual outing! There is parking right on the island, and facilities including picnic tables, shaded spots, and plenty of open areas to prep your gear before hopping on the water.
| Pro tip: Canoe and kayak rentals aren’t available on-site and nearby, so you’ll need to bring your own. After your paddle, explore the little hiking trails on the island—a great way to stretch your legs this time! |
Britannia Beach
– Media credit: b612travel
Expertise: Easy to Intermediate
Distance: Varies depending on activities
Shops/Rentals in and nearby: Surf Side
Fees: Rental fees for equipment only
Britannia Beach, about 10 kilometres west of downtown, is a popular and accessible hub for water-based activities. This spot provides access to the Ottawa River, with gentle water conditions ideal for beginners or those wanting a smooth paddle.
The shoreline and surrounding area are stunning, with sandy beaches and plenty of space for chilling. Its shallow waters make it ideal for kids who want to splash around.
There’s ample parking, too, and the area has washrooms, shaded picnic areas, food options, and rental options nearby.
| Pro tip: You can paddle east along the shoreline where you’ll have the chance to explore hidden bays and small islands—the calmer waters in this direction are perfect for a more secluded adventure. |
Mooney’s Bay Park and Beach
– Media credit: cobelifestyle
Expertise: Easy
Distance: Approximately 4 km (small loops and paddling routes along the Rideau River)
Shops/Rentals in and nearby: Escape Tours, Rezgo
Fees: None
Mooney’s Bay, about 8 kilometres south of downtown Ottawa, is a well-loved spot, offering direct access to the Rideau River. The water here is calm and steady, so it’s beginner-friendly. Pro paddlers can venture further upstream for more of a challenge.
The beach area is large and welcoming, offering a perfect launch point for your paddle. Surrounding the area are well-kept parks and picnic areas, perfect for a family outing.
Facilities at Mooney’s Bay are excellent, with parking, playground, washrooms, picnic spaces, and even concession stands. If you don’t own gear, equipment rentals are available on site and nearby.
| Pro tip: Before planning your trip here, to check the water quality conditions on the Ottawa Public Health website. This makes a safe and enjoyable experience for swimming and paddling. |
Morris Island Conservation Area
– Media credit: cyclecats
Expertise: Intermediate
Distance: Approximately 4 to 6 km of trails and water routes
Shops/Rentals in and nearby: None
Fees: None
Located near the Fitzroy Harbour, Morris Island Conservation Area has several smaller waterways that offer slow, steady currents, perfect for exploration. The area is scenic, with lush greenery and plentiful wildlife, where you may encounter turtles, beavers, and an array of bird species!
The facilities at Morris Island are well-maintained, with a parking area near the entrance and some picnic tables scattered throughout. While there aren’t rental options here, the environment makes it worth bringing your own.
| Pro tip: Paddling is strictly prohibited in the adjacent open Ottawa River. This is because the fluctuating water levels caused by the Chat Falls Generating Station make the open river unsafe. |
Lac Leamy (Gatineau)
– Media credit: ariane_theberge
Expertise: Easy
Distance: Distance varies based on paddling routes—usually 1 to 3 km
Shops/Rentals in and nearby: Centre de plein air du Lac-Leamy
Fees: None
Lac Leamy is a gem blended from nature and cityscapes. It’s just across the Ottawa River in Gatineau, less than a 10-minute drive from downtown.
The lake isn’t massive, but its calm and sheltered waters make it perfect for a laid-back paddle. It connects to other bodies of water in the region, allowing you to extend your paddle to the Gatineau River.
Nearby, you’ll find walking trails, picnic areas, and even a beach where you can unwind after paddling. There are also equipment rentals, along with some shops and outfitters in Gatineau or Ottawa.
| Pro tip: Paddle over toward the Casino du Lac-Leamy area, which offers a waterfront area—the view is lovely! Just watch out for boats that might be navigating the connecting channels and stay close to the shoreline for safety. |
Calabogie Lake
– Media credit: lorioco
Expertise: Intermediate
Distance: Approximately 15 km around the lake
Shops/Rentals in and nearby: Calabogie Peak Resort
Fees: None
Calabogie Lake is about an hour and ten minutes west of downtown Ottawa—it’s a quick road trip. This larger lake in the Ottawa Valley offers plenty of space to explore by canoe or kayak.
The water here is clean and relatively calm, though it can get choppy if the wind picks up, so mornings or evenings tend to be quieter. The scenery is gorgeous, surrounded by rolling hills, lush trees, and the occasional cottage or dock.
Calabogie itself is a super outdoorsy spot, with plenty of facilities nearby, like a public boat ramp for launching and nearby rental shops. If you feel like hiking a bit to catch fantastic views of the valley, check out the Eagles Nest Trail!
| Pro tip: Pack some binoculars if you’re into birdwatching, and you’ll likely spot a heron or two—maybe even some bald eagles—around Calabogie Lake. |
The Madawaska River
– Media credit: myamstein
Expertise: Intermediate to Hard
Distance: Approximately 230 km (spanning several locations with calmer and whitewater sections)
Shops/Rentals in and nearby: Madawaska Kanu Centre
Fees: Guided tours may involve fees
Located about an hour’s drive from Ottawa, the Madawaska River stretches for miles, offering plenty of opportunities for exploration and adventure. The surroundings are pure Ottawa Valley beauty—forested banks, occasional cliffs, and wide-open skies.
Many parts of the river offer mild rapids that make for an exciting ride, perfect if you’re experienced and want a bit of challenge. If you’re aiming for flatwater paddling, head to the Palmer Rapids area—this section is slower-moving and perfect for scenic exploration.
Launch points are scattered along the river’s length, some with easy access parking, and a few outfitters if you need to rent equipment.
| Pro tip: Since the river covers a long stretch, you might want to plan out specific sections and driving logistics if you want to cover more ground. Local towns like Arnprior and Barry’s Bay have amenities and dining options. |
Bon Echo Provincial Park
– Media credit: toronto_ecoadventures
Expertise: Easy to Intermediate
Distance: Mazinaw Lake is approximately 18 km
Shops/Rentals in and nearby: Bon Echo Paddle Centre (first-come, first-served basis)
Fees: Daily Vehicle Permit (must be booked 5 days in advance)
Bon Echo Provincial Park is a dream location, located a little over two hours from Ottawa. The centrepiece of the park is Mazinaw Lake, which is famous for its towering cliffs covered in Indigenous pictographs—a sight you need to witness!
The lake is massive, with both calm bays and wide-open stretches. While the wind can make larger sections challenging, the sheltered areas remain incredibly smooth to paddle.
There are multiple launch spots here, and canoe and kayak rentals are conveniently available within the park. You’ll also find hiking trails, beaches, campgrounds, and a visitor centre to round out your experience.
| Pro tip: To visit here, you’ll need to obtain a Daily Vehicle Permit, which must be booked online at least 5 days in advance. Also, remember to bring a waterproof map to make navigation easier, as Mazinaw Lake is big enough. |
