If you’re wondering where to paddle near Ottawa,you don’t have to go far at all. Ottawa and Gatineau sit at the centre of one of the best paddling regions in the country, with everything from a calm river right in the heart of the city to quiet backcountry lakes less than two hours away.
The best place to start is closer than you think. Escape Tours & Rentals is based right on the Ottawa River at the NCC River House, in Rockcliffe Park, just minutes from downtown Ottawa. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for a new spot to explore, here’s our updated guide to the best places to paddle in and around Ottawa-Gatineau, starting with the easiest one to reach.
1. Start Right at Our Doorstep: The Ottawa River at the NCC River House
Escape Kayak Tours and Rentals is located 300 metres downstream from the NCC River House, a beautifully restored heritage building on the shores of the Ottawa River in Rockcliffe Park neighbourhood. It couldn’t be easier to get here. The River House sits just off the parkway with two dedicated parking lots (P3 and P4), a short walk from the water, and it’s only minutes from downtown Ottawa, the ByWard Market, and the Rockcliffe Parkway. So, you can park once, grab your gear, and be paddling within minutes.
From here you can paddle along a gorgeous stretch of the Ottawa River, take in views of Rockcliffe Park’s forested shoreline, or join us for a guided tour, including our popular sunset kayak tour. The site also has a public launch dock, a supervised summer swimming area, and the Ottawa River Pathway right at the water’s edge for anyone combining a walk or bike ride with their paddle.
Rent a single or tandem kayak, a stand-up paddleboard, or a bike right at the water: see our rentals and current rates.
Are you planning a weekend escape? You can also find various campgrounds, lodges, and resorts around the lake.
2. Stay Local with a Trip to Meech Lake
About a 25-minute drive from our River House location, Meech Lake is the closest lake to the city and a favourite for an easy day trip into Gatineau Park.
The lake is calm with almost no boat traffic, and mornings and evenings bring beautiful light and quieter parking lots. Parking is paid and limited during the summer season, so arriving early or late in the day is worth it. The launch at the P12 parking area is less than 100 metres from the water.
Are you planning a weekend escape? You can also find various campgrounds, lodges, and resorts around the lake.
3. Paddle the Gatineau River in Wakefield
Less than 30 minutes from our location, Wakefield is one of the most popular spots on the Gatineau River, and for good reason. There are multiple easy access points along the riverside, including near the Wakefield General Store.
Once you’re on the water, drifting downriver for a few kilometres is a relaxed way to spend an afternoon, or you can paddle upstream toward the photogenic Wakefield Covered Bridge. The current picks up closer to the bridge, so less experienced paddlers may want to walk their kayak or SUP along the shoreline through that stretch.
Are you planning a weekend escape? You can also find various campgrounds, lodges, and resorts around the lake.
4. Enjoy Crystal-Clear Water at Calabogie Lake
A little over an hour’s drive west of Ottawa, Calabogie Lake is one of the region’s best-loved spots for a longer paddling day trip, with clear water and sweeping views of the Ottawa Valley’s hills.
It’s a large lake with numerous access points along its perimeter, so it’s easy to find a quiet spot to launch from. If you’re planning a weekend away rather than a day trip, the area also has campgrounds, lodges, and resorts.
