Family Whitewater Rafting on the Ottawa River

A word from our whitewater rafting experts

“I’ve spent much of my life on the Ottawa River, and as a father, I wanted to create an experience where families feel genuinely welcome. Our base is located on the Quebec side not too far from the river, a beautiful spot that offers some of the best family-friendly water in the region. I believe every child should have the chance to experience the rush of the river in a way that feels safe and fun.
When you join us for a family adventure, you aren’t just a booking on a spreadsheet. We treat our guests like friends coming over for a day on the water. We take care of the lunch, the gear, and the navigation so you can focus on making memories with your kids. If you want to get your family away from screens and into the fresh air, come see us in Quebec this summer. We are just on the other side of the river and strangely, make us the closest rafting destination from downtown Ottawa ... ok, just by 9 minutes, but we are still the closest 🙂 Our trips fill up quickly during the peak season on the weekends, so I encourage you to book your trip early if you want a Saturday or Sunday. I look forward to seeing you on the river!"”
Philippe OuelletteDirecteur général

Real Family Adventure on the Ottawa River

Most summer activities for families involve crowded parks and long lines. At Rafting Momentum, we offer a different pace on the Ottawa River. Our family rafting trips are designed specifically for parents with younger children who want excitement without the high-intensity risks of pro-level whitewater. We navigate the “Family Channel,” a route known for warm water and fun, splashing waves that are perfect for kids.

Our kids rafting program focuses on building confidence in the water. It’s a full day of activity where children aren’t just passengers—they get to be part of the crew. Between the rapids, there is plenty of time to swim in the current, push those who deserve it in the water (often the guide) 🙂 and see the river up close. We handle all the gear and logistics so you can focus on having a good time with your children. It’s a straightforward, active day outdoors that appeals to everyone from five-year-olds (40 pounds) to grandparents. If you are looking for a genuine way to get the family outside and doing something active together, this is the trip for you.

1-Day Rafting for Everyone

The Ottawa River, for the regions of Ottawa / Gatineau

Only 1 hour from downtown Ottawa

If you’re looking for family rafting nearby, we are closer than you think. Located on the Quebec side of the Ottawa River, Rafting Momentum is an easy drive from Gatineau and Ottawa, making us the perfect choice for a day trip or a full weekend getaway. To truly experience the river, we recommend checking out our lodging options. Instead of rushing home after a day on the water, you can keep the adventure going by staying right at our base camp

We offer various stay-and-play packages that include lodging to suit your family’s style. Whether you prefer the simplicity of camping under the stars (camp site free for one night we every rafting package) or the comfort of our rustic cabins, cottages or luxury apartment, staying on-site allows you to wake up to the sound of birds singing. It’s a great way to unplug and enjoy a campfire without the hassle of a long commute. For families traveling from across Quebec or Ontario, having everything in one place—the rafting on the river, the meals, and a place to sleep—makes the trip much more relaxing. Why settle for a quick afternoon activity when you can turn your river trip into a true mini-vacation? Grab your spot and spend a night or two in the heart of the action.

See Our Lodging Options

Safety and Peace of Mind

We know that for parents, safe rafting is the top priority. Our approach to river safety starts with choosing the right environment. We use specific sections of the river that offer gentle rafting and predictable conditions. This makes our trips ideal for beginner rafting and families who might be nervous about their first time on the water.

Every trip begins with a clear, hands-on safety briefing. Our professional guides are experts at working with kids; they know how to explain the basics in a way that is reassuring rather than intimidating. We provide all necessary safety equipment, including life jackets and helmets specifically sized for children. Our guides stay with your group for the entire duration, navigating the boat and ensuring everyone is comfortable. We’ve spent years refining our family routes to provide a controlled, professional experience. You get the thrill of being on the river with the peace of mind that comes from being in expert hands. We prioritize your family’s security so you can actually relax and enjoy the splash.

Our Family Rafting Package