If you live in Ottawa, you already know this city is ridiculously well set up for paddling. Within 20 minutes of downtown, you can be on the water with a kayak, canoe, or SUP — and within an hour you're deep into Gatineau Park or floating down a stretch of the Ottawa River that feels like you've left civilization entirely.
We've been helping Ottawa paddlers get on the water since 1976, so we know a thing or two about where to go and what to bring. Here's our take on the best local spots and the gear worth packing.
Remic Rapids Park
Right in the city, Remic Rapids is a local favourite for beginners and intermediate paddlers alike. The calm water upstream is perfect for flatwater kayaking or SUP, while the rapids downstream give whitewater enthusiasts something to work with. It's also one of the best spots in the city to just launch and float on a summer evening.
What to bring: A solid flatwater kayak like something from our Flatwater Kayaks lineup, a good PFD, and sunscreen. The Ottawa River sun reflects off the water hard.
Lac Leamy (Gatineau, QC)
Just across the river in Gatineau, Lac Leamy is calm, scenic, and very beginner-friendly. It's a fantastic place to test out a new inflatable SUP or take kids out on a tandem kayak for the first time. Parking is easy, the launch is gentle, and the views are lovely.
What to bring: Comfortable paddling footwear, a dry bag for your keys and phone, and maybe a picnic.
The Rideau River
The Rideau winds through the heart of Ottawa and is one of the most underrated urban paddles in Canada. You can put in near Billings Bridge and float all the way through the Glebe and Old Ottawa South — waving at dogs and reading patios from the water. Life is good.
What to bring: A recreational kayak or canoe, a paddle leash, and the willingness to take a slow morning.
Gatineau Park (La Pêche Lake and Beyond)
If you're willing to drive 40 minutes, La Pêche Lake and the surrounding Gatineau Park lakes offer some of the most stunning flatwater paddling in the region. Crystal clear water, loons, the smell of pine. It's the real deal. You'll need a National Capital Commission day pass, but it's absolutely worth it.
What to bring: For longer paddles, a touring kayak or tripping canoe is the way to go. Pack canoe bags if you're heading out overnight, and don't skip the throw bag — always good to have on backcountry water.
One More Thing: Dress for the Water, Not the Air
The number one mistake we see every spring is paddlers heading out in shorts and a t-shirt because it's 22°C on shore. The Ottawa River is cold — sometimes dangerously so — until well into June. Always dress for immersion, especially early season. Our paddling clothing section has everything from splash tops to full drysuits depending on conditions.
Come visit us at 2148 Carling Ave and we'll help you sort out exactly what you need for wherever you're headed. See you on the water.