Two Days on the Ottawa: A Low‑to‑Medium Whitewater Progression at OWL Resort

FORESTERS FALLS RAFTING FIELD GUIDE

Two Days on the Ottawa: A Low‑to‑Medium Whitewater Progression at OWL Resort

A two‑day OWL Rafting package in Foresters Falls that pairs a gentle introduction with a fuller, medium‑intensity raft day — this guide explains the flow, the kit, and who can take part.

Two Days on the Ottawa: A Low‑to‑Medium Whitewater Progression at OWL Resort.

Duration
One Day Low Intensity & One Day Medium Intensity
Location
Foresters Falls
Operator
OWL Rafting on the Ottawa River
Category
Rafting
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Set against the Canadian Shield at the OWL Resort in Foresters Falls, this two‑day package pairs a low‑intensity introduction to the Ottawa River’s Rocher Fendu rapids with a second day of medium‑intensity rafting, complemented by resort amenities, meals, and waterfront downtime.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE RIVER

Rocher Fendu and a Measured Introduction to Whitewater

Day one follows conservative lines through the Rocher Fendu (split rock) rapids for a splashy but accessible introduction; day two advances to medium‑intensity runs on a larger raft where all participants paddle under the direction of experienced guides.

THE RESORT

Relaxation and Facilities Between Runs

OWL Resort serves as basecamp: guests have access to a beach, floating swim dock with slide, SUPs, kayaks, canoes, frisbee golf, beach volleyball, a life‑size maze and a hot sauna, plus on‑site snacks and cold drinks for sale.

THE PROGRESSION

Two Days, Two Intensities

The package is structured to build confidence — a low‑intensity day featuring conservative paddling and optional body surfing or cliff jumps (if water levels allow), then a medium‑intensity day on a larger raft that requires all participants to paddle.

What the day feels like

What the Two-Day Progression Feels Like

Over two days you move from playful splashes and controlled lines to louder water and sustained paddling; guides control the craft from the stern using paddles on the low‑intensity day and oars on the medium day, with shared moments of floating, body‑surfing and, where conditions allow, cliff jumping, punctuated by pontoon‑boat BBQs and evenings at the resort.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this package suits — and who should choose alternatives.

1
Active FamiliesFamilies with members over the 90 lb (41 kg) threshold can enjoy the full two‑day progression and resort amenities; younger or lighter children may be limited to low‑intensity sessions or alternative providers.
2
First‑Time RaftersIdeal for beginners who want a graduated experience — the first day offers conservative lines and controlled exposure before advancing to medium‑intensity water.
3
Lighter Participants & ChildrenOWL’s low‑intensity rafting accepts rafters from 50 lbs (23 kgs) and up, but the two‑day package requires participants to meet the 90 lb (41 kg) product minimum — those under 50 lbs are directed to the sister company.
4
Paddling‑Ready AdventurersThe medium‑intensity day requires all participants to paddle and is suited to those ready to be active in a crew‑paced environment, provided they meet the weight minimum for the package.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Bring your own camping gear if camping; the package includes campground access but no personal camping equipment. Pack non‑cotton clothing, a towel and a sweater for the pontoon boat, and a bag for wet items.

Footwear

Wear shoes you can swim in — watershoes, sport sandals, or running shoes are recommended; Crocs and flip‑flops are not permitted.

Wetsuits & Rentals

Bring a wetsuit if you own one or rent one for the day; synthetic materials and wool are recommended over cotton for wet clothing.

On‑site Conveniences

OWL has on‑site ice cream, snacks, cold drinks and ice for sale; glasses wearers will find sunglass retainers available in the operator’s boutique.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

Where do I check in for the trip?

Meeting and check‑in are at 40 OWL Lane, Foresters Falls, ON, K0J1V0; check‑ins for the arrival day begin at 5:00 PM.

How long is the package?

The package comprises one low‑intensity rafting day and one medium‑intensity rafting day across the stay, with associated overnights at OWL Resort.

Is there a weight minimum to participate?

Yes: this product is suitable for anyone over 90 lbs (41 kgs) and guests who do not meet this minimum will not be able to participate in the package; OWL’s low‑intensity rafting alone accepts rafters 50 lbs (23 kgs) and up.

Can younger or lighter children still raft?

Children 50 lbs (23 kgs) and above can participate in OWL’s Low Intensity rafting; guests under 50 lbs are advised to check the operator’s sister company, Madawaska Rafting, which accepts rafters from age 2 and up.

Do participants have to paddle?

On the medium‑intensity day all participants are required to paddle; on the low‑intensity day guides control the raft from the stern using paddles while guests follow directions and enjoy the experience.

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. Wear non‑cotton clothes and bring a towel, sweater and a bag for wet items; wetsuits can be rented if needed.