Looking for the best places to Kayak in Ottawa, here is Riverview Mobile Kayak Rental’s top picks for 2021.
Brantwood Park - Rideau River
Very nice place to paddle, quiet - no motor boats. This part of the Rideau River is accessible from Clegg Street off Main Street, right in the heart of the City of Ottawa. Easy to get on and off the water with beach/shore launch. The water here is usually calm. High winds and rough waves are uncommon here. Kayaking from Brantwood takes approximately two hours to both, the Bank Street and Queensway bridges, and back to the park. The wildlife includes; Great Blue Herons, Double-Crested Cormorants, Midland Painted Turtles just to name a few. Great location for beginners and for those who are located in the right in the City.
Eccolands Park - Rideau River
Located west of the Ottawa International Airport off River Road, Eccolands is a beautiful park with a small boat ramp. From this location, paddle up to Jock River Landing on the south side of Vimy bridge. Approximate distance: 18 kilometers both ways / 3-hour paddle. This part of the Rideau is fairly narrow especially when compared to the Ottawa River. With respect to the wildlife, many birds are found here on the river such as Cedar Wax Wings, Great Blues and, Green Herons. Keep an eye out for them along the shoreline. Midland Painted Turtles are also often seen. In addition, you’ll see several beautiful large and homes along this part of the Rideau. These dwellings are worth checking out.
Kettle and Duck Islands – Ottawa River
These islands have become a number one place for paddling. Located just across the north end of Blair Road, the National Capital Commission - Massey Lane has a nice sandy beach making it easy to get in and out of a kayak. Kettle Island is owned by The Nature Conservancy of Canada and is listed as “ecologically sensitive”. Upper Duck Island contains a long inner channel providing a great home for many animals, birds and turtles protecting them from winds and fast water currants. Also seen near these islands, is a Bald Eagle. Bald Eagle in the Ottawa area? Who knew! According to iNaturalist, there have been half a dozen sightings since 2013. For more information check out inaturalist.com
Petrie Island – Ottawa River
Petrie Island is a favorite place for paddling especially for those in Ottawa east end. It is classified as “Significant Wetlands” and defined as an Area of Natural and Scientific Interest. The island contains many inner channels which make for great places to discover. Petrie is known for its Midland Painted Turtles. Many can be seen sunbathing on dead logs partially out of the water. Best to enjoy them from a distance and make sure to be as quiet as possible. In addition to the many turtles, many birds have been seen at Petrie Island such as Flycatchers, Baltimore Orioles, Great Horned Owls, Eastern Kingbirds and much more.