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Key
Put In Put In
Take Out Take Out

Ottawa river, Blacks farm to OWL rafting *

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Key
  • Grade: 2-3
  • Level: Any! Can be paddled anytime it is free of ice
  • Gauge: The physical gauge is upstream of this section, and is the one that all other sources reference. There is an online gauge now, maintained by Shaggy Designs. Several other websites report the readings, but may not update very regularly: OWL Rafting (Twitter), or ask on the Boatwerks message board
  • Length: 11 km
  • Time: An afternoon float
  • Put In: Blacks farm (the take out for the Rocher Fendu section)
  • Take Out: OWL rafting base
  • Shuttle: 12 km
  • Character: A gentler and much less crowded version of the Rocher Fendu section above

This section is often overlooked in favour of the 'normal' Ottawa section, but provides a pleasant, more moderate trip. There are a few rapids encountered near the start that are usually grade 2, and are an ideal training ground for ferry gliding and attainment practice. High water pushes this section up to grade 3, and means a few good surf spots as well. Soon though, the water flattens off as the lake formed by the hydro dam at Portage-du-Fort is reached. As you float down, reflect that pre-dam, this section contained some of the biggest rapids on the Ottawa. The take out is on the right, and is a few hundred metres downstream of a big construction crane now used as a bungy tower. You need to ask permission at the OWL rafting office. There is an alternative (public) access point further downstream at the end of Acres road.

To get to the take out; Turn off Grant Settlement road onto Rafting road and follow it to the end. OWL rafting is on the right. This is well signposted from highway 17 in all directions.

To get to the put in; Go back to Grant Settlement road and turn right. RiverRun rafting is on the right, or Blacks access is just past RiverRun. Currently there is a fee to acces the river here, and only one access will be open at any given time.