Ottawa river, Champlain rapids

The Champlain rapids are ideal for brushing up on your playboating skills on a warm summer afternoon. Conveniently located near to downtown Ottawa, this is a great after work paddling opportunity.

Halfway across the Champlain bridge, turn onto Bate island and park up. The waves are all to be found on the river left side of the island between Bate island and the Quebec shore. The best waves form next to the island above about 58.5 m on the gauge. Any lower than this, and the better option is further out in the centre of the channel. This is not difficult water, but a swim would be a long lonely experience.