Ottawa Valley
The Ottawa Valley is renowned as the Whitewater Capital of Canada and home to some of the fastest, cleanest and safest rivers in Canada. Created from glacial retreats thousands of years ago, the Valley offers a unique blend of outdoor recreation and historic, small-town charm. It’s a perfect road trip destination.
The region’s expansive network of four-season, multi-use trails cater to a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, paddling, snowmobiling, skiing and snowshoeing. The newest multi-use trail, the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail, stretches for almost 200 kilometres between Arnprior and Deux-Rivières.
Where is the Ottawa Valley?
The Ottawa Valley is situated along the boundary between Eastern Ontario and Quebec, Canada.
From Toronto, drive north for about 4.5 hours to reach Barry’s Bay. The town of Arnprior is located an hour’s drive west of Ottawa. You can also catch the Ontario Northland bus from Ottawa or Sudbury with daily service and stops in Arnprior, Renfrew, Pembroke and Petawawa.
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Things to do in the Ottawa Valley
Tour local breweries, cideries and wineries
The self-guided Tap and Cork Route tour will introduce you to the Valley’s top breweries, cideries and wineries.
Follow the A.Y. Jackson Trail
The well-worn A.Y. Jackson Trail offers breathtaking sights throughout the Ottawa Valley that the famous Group of Seven member and artist painted during his visits.
Hike to breathtaking lookouts
Hike up the Gun Mountain Loop Trail to Tom’s Lookout for sweeping views of the Madawaska Highlands or bike along the 296-kilometre Ottawa Valley Rail Trail, a former CP rail line.
Explore an ancient cave system
Located near Eganville, Bonnechere Caves is a stunning cave system formed millions of years ago. Come for a tour of intriguing fossils, geological formations and ancient sea creatures.
Lounge on the beach
Soak in the sun at Pine Point Beach in Deep River. Extending along the Ottawa River, this picturesque sandy beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing and afternoon strolls.
Go whitewater rafting
Wilderness Tours’ whitewater rafting excursions guide you through big waves at varying difficulty levels.
Get inspired
Plan your visit with these experiences and itineraries.
Points of interest
Discover more highlights this destination has to offer.
Last updated: October 22, 2024