Two Days on the Ottawa: Paddle, Surf and Pontoon BBQ from OWL Resort

FORESTERS FALLS GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Two Days on the Ottawa: Paddle, Surf and Pontoon BBQ from OWL Resort

A two-day, medium-intensity rafting package on the Ottawa River that pairs big-raft whitewater with a pontoon-boat BBQ and overnight resort access—this guide explains what to expect and what to pack.

Two Days on the Ottawa: Paddle, Surf and Pontoon BBQ from OWL Resort.

Duration
Two Days of Rafting with Two Nights
Location
Foresters Falls
Operator
OWL Rafting on the Ottawa River
Category
Guided Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Experience two full days of guided rafting on the Ottawa River out of Foresters Falls: paddle challenging rapids from a large guide-steered raft, try body surfing or cliff jumps when conditions allow, then trade wet kit for a pontoon-boat BBQ and the comforts and activities of the OWL Resort between runs.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE RIVER

Full-day whitewater and play

Spend full days paddling tougher runs of the Ottawa River in a large raft guided from the stern; the itinerary includes opportunities to float, body-surf and, when conditions permit, cliff jump.

THE RETURN

Pontoon-boat BBQ recovery

As the current eases, rafters meet the signature pontoon boat for a freshly grilled buffet and a dry place to change while cruising back toward the resort along a historic route.

THE RESORT

OWL Resort downtime and extras

Between days you can relax at OWL Resort—play frisbee golf or beach volleyball, swim from a large floating dock with slide, try SUPs and kayaks, or catch the post-run video presentation that relives the day’s highlights.

What the day feels like

What the two-day adventure feels like

The trip alternates focused, physical river time with deliberate recovery: mornings begin with a briefing and shuttle to put-in, then you paddle and splash through a day of rapids in a big, guide-steered raft; afternoons slow as you meet the pontoon boat for a BBQ and a cruise back to the resort before evening activities and an overnight stay—then you do it again on day two.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this trip suits—and who should consider alternatives.

1
Adventure Rafters (90 lb / 41 kg and up)This medium-intensity, multi-day rafting package is designed for guests who meet the 90 lb minimum and want active, wet days on the Ottawa River with evenings at the OWL Resort.
2
Lightweight Guests (50–90 lb)Guests under 90 lb are steered toward the Low Intensity Rafting option; that program is suitable for anyone 50 lb (23 kg) and up.
3
Families with very young childrenIf participants are under 50 lb, the operator recommends the sister company (Madawaska Rafting in Barry’s Bay), which accepts rafters as young as 2 years old.
4
Overnight & Activity SeekersGuests who enjoy camping or simple resort amenities will find on-site camping, glamping, cabins and a range of beach and lake activities to fill evenings between runs.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Duration & Nights

The package spans two days of rafting with two nights’ accommodation included.

Meeting Point & Address

Meet at OWL Resort: 40 OWL Lane, Foresters Falls, ON, K0J1V0 for check-in and departures.

What to Bring

Bring camping gear if you’ll camp (campground access is included). Pack non-cotton clothes to get wet, a towel and a bag for wet items; wetsuits may be brought or rented.

Footwear & Clothing

Wear shoes suitable for swimming—watershoes, sport sandals, or running shoes are recommended; Crocs and flip-flops are not permitted.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

What is the minimum weight to participate?

Participants must weigh at least 90 lb (41 kg) to join this medium-intensity rafting package.

Is there a gentler option for lighter guests or children?

OWL Rafting’s Low Intensity Rafting is suitable for rafters 50 lb (23 kg) and up; guests under 50 lb are recommended to contact Madawaska Rafting, the sister company that accepts rafters from age 2 upward.

How many days and nights does the trip include?

The Adventure Rafting Package includes two days of rafting with two nights of accommodation.

Will there be food provided during the day?

Yes—rafters meet a pontoon boat around mid-afternoon for a freshly grilled buffet BBQ, and dinners are served at the OWL Resort; snacks and cold drinks are also available for sale on site.

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. Use non-cotton clothing; wetsuits can be brought or rented, and bring a towel and dry sweater for the pontoon.

Where do I check in and when?

Check-in begins at 5:00 PM at the OWL Resort address (40 OWL Lane, Foresters Falls).