FORESTERS FALLS BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Easy Whitewater and Lakeside Leisure: A Family-Friendly Day on the Ottawa at Foresters Falls
A full-day, low‑intensity rafting outing on the Ottawa River that mixes gentle whitewater, body surfing and a pontoon-boat BBQ—use this guide to plan what to bring and who should come.
Easy Whitewater and Lakeside Leisure: A Family-Friendly Day on the Ottawa at Foresters Falls.
Soft Adventure Rafting at Foresters Falls is a full‑day, low‑intensity rafting experience on the Ottawa River that balances playful whitewater with relaxed after‑raft comforts. Guided by OWL Rafting staff, the trip runs the split‑rock Rocher Fendu rapids on conservative lines suitable for children, pauses for swimming and optional cliff jumping where conditions allow, then transfers guests to a pontoon boat for a grilled buffet while cruising past the exposed contours of the Canadian Shield before returning to OWL Resort.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Rocher Fendu: playful whitewater on conservative lines
The heart of the day is navigating the Rocher Fendu (split rock) rapids under the control of experienced guides rowing with oars; lines taken are conservative to keep the experience family‑friendly while still delivering excitement and splashes.
Pontoon boat, BBQ and shoreline views
After rafting the group boards OWL’s signature pontoon boat for a freshly grilled buffet and dry clothes, cruising back to the resort while taking in the rugged shoreline of the Canadian Shield.
Body surfing, a possible cliff jump and guided learning
The itinerary makes room for swimming and body surfing in friendly water; if river levels allow, participants may take a supervised cliff jump, and guides lead a briefing and in‑raft instruction to keep the day accessible.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
From check‑in at OWL you move through a compact rhythm: a morning briefing, shuttle to the river and a few hours of guided rafting on the Rocher Fendu rapids where guides steer and guests follow simple commands. The mood shifts from high energy in the rapids to slow repose once the pontoons are reached—towels, warm clothes and a hot BBQ reset the group before a calm cruise back to the resort and a closing video presentation to relive the day.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this day is best for — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Check in at 40 OWL Lane, Foresters Falls, ON (OWL Office). Typical schedule begins with an 8:15 AM check‑in and the day runs roughly 7.5 hours with a 4:30 PM typical departure time from the resort.
Bring swim‑capable shoes (watershoes, sport sandals, or running shoes—no Crocs or flip‑flops), non‑cotton clothes you don’t mind getting wet, and a towel and sweater for the pontoon. Wetsuits may be brought or rented; bring a bag for wet items. If camping, bring your own gear—campground access is included.
A freshly prepared grilled buffet is provided on the pontoon boat after rafting; dry clothes and towels can meet you on the pontoon.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Soft Adventure Rafting experience?
The trip is a full‑day experience lasting approximately 7.5 hours.
Where do I meet for check‑in?
Check in at the OWL Office, 40 OWL Lane, Foresters Falls, ON, K0J1V0.
Is there a minimum weight or age to join?
Participants must weigh at least 50 lb (23 kg); for rafters under that threshold the operator recommends their sister company, which accepts younger participants.
What footwear and clothing should I bring?
Bring shoes you can swim in (watershoes, sport sandals or running shoes—Crocs and flip‑flops are not permitted), non‑cotton quick‑dry clothing, and a towel and sweater for the pontoon; wetsuits can be brought or rented.
Will there be food on the trip?
Yes—the group meets a pontoon boat for a freshly prepared grilled buffet after rafting.
Can I camp as part of my visit?
Yes—package access to OWL’s campgrounds is included, but you must bring your own camping gear; upgrading to a cabin is an option if camping isn’t desired.