Two Days on the Ottawa: A Medium-to-High Intensity Rafting Progression from Foresters Falls

FORESTERS FALLS WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE

Two Days on the Ottawa: A Medium-to-High Intensity Rafting Progression from Foresters Falls

A 2-night, 2-day OWL Rafting package that pairs a medium-intensity run with a high-intensity sport-raft day, plus resort nights, a pontoon-boat BBQ and on-site amenities.

Two Days on the Ottawa: A Medium-to-High Intensity Rafting Progression from Foresters Falls.

Duration
2 Nights & 2 Days of Rafting
Location
Foresters Falls
Operator
OWL Rafting on the Ottawa River
Category
Water Activities
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Set on the Ottawa River at OWL Resort in Foresters Falls, this two-night, two-day rafting package moves rafters from a guided medium-intensity run to a high-intensity sport-raft day — expect paddling as a crew, the chance to body-surf and cliff jump, and a full-service resort to recover in between.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE ROUTE

A progressive whitewater sequence: medium then high

The itinerary is designed as a progression: an initial medium‑intensity day with an oar-guided raft and crew paddling, followed by a high‑intensity day in a smaller, sportier six-person raft where all participants paddle, body-surf and may cliff jump; be prepared for the raft to flip.

THE RITUAL

Pontoon-boat BBQ and First National return

Each day finishes with a meet-up at the pontoon boat for a freshly grilled buffet and a relaxed cruise back to the OWL Resort along the historical First National route, giving paddlers time to dry off and relive the run.

RECOVERY & AMENITIES

Resort facilities for downtime and play

Between runs the OWL Resort offers a floating swim dock with slide, SUPs, kayaks, canoes, a life‑size maze, frisbee golf, beach volleyball and a hot sauna — options to unwind, play or recover after heavy paddling.

What the day feels like

What the two-day rafting sequence feels like

Arrive to the resort for an evening on site, then move through a morning briefing and shuttle to the river for a full day of guided paddling; the second day intensifies in a sport raft where every rafter paddles in a tight crew, with body-surfing, floating and possible cliff jumps before the pontoon boat recovery and BBQ return.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this package suits — and who should opt for alternatives.

1
Experienced, active raftersAppropriate for paddlers who want a progression from medium to high intensity and who are prepared to paddle as part of a small crew on the sport raft.
2
Teens and adults (recommended 14+)The product is recommended for participants 14 years of age and up and for guests meeting the minimum weight requirement.
3
Those under the 90‑lb minimumGuests under 90 lbs are advised to choose OWL's Low Intensity Rafting option, which is suitable for rafters 50 lbs (23 kgs) and up.
4
Very small children or under 50 lbsIf guests are under 50 lbs (23 kgs) the recommendation is to check OWL's sister company, Madawaska Rafting, which accepts rafters from age 2 and up.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Bring camping gear if you plan to camp (the package includes campground access). Wear shoes you can swim in — watershoes, sport sandals or running shoes; Crocs and flip‑flops are not permitted. Bring non‑cotton clothes to get wet in; wetsuits can be brought or rented. Pack a towel, sweater and a bag for wet items for the pontoon boat.

Footwear & Clothing

Synthetic or wool layers that dry quickly are recommended; footwear must be secure for water use and swim-ready.

Camping & Accommodation

If camping, bring all your gear; alternatives include upgrades to glamping tents, cabins or cabanas at the OWL Resort.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

Where do I meet for the trip?

The meeting location is 40 OWL Lane, Foresters Falls, ON, K0J1V0.

How long is the package?

The package runs over 2 nights with 2 days of rafting.

What is the minimum weight to participate?

This product is suitable for anyone over 90 lbs (41 kgs); guests below that should consider OWL's Low Intensity Rafting.

Is there a recommended minimum age?

The package is recommended for participants 14 years of age and up.

Will I be required to paddle and is flipping possible?

All participants are required to paddle on the high-intensity day; the operator warns that the sport raft may flip and rafters should be prepared to get wet.

Can I rent a wetsuit and what shoes are allowed?

Wetsuits can be brought or rented for the day; recommended footwear includes watershoes, sport sandals or running shoes while Crocs and flip-flops are not permitted.

When should I check in and when do I typically depart?

Check‑ins begin at 5:00 PM on arrival day and a typical departure on Day 3 is around 4:30 PM.