Yes! The Rideau River near Ottawa has calm, slow-moving water, making it ideal for beginner paddlers. It’s an easy place to practice your balance and paddle technique without strong currents or boat traffic.
Rideau River Paddleboarding: My Ottawa Weekend Getaway
As a paddleboarder living in Ottawa, I’ve been waiting for a good place to get out on the water. Last weekend, I decided to explore a section of the Rideau River.
My starting point was Bloor Park, just south of downtown Ottawa. There’s a convenient launch point right on the riverbank, and parking was easy to find. I inflated my Funwater paddle board with an electric pump (which I highly recommend if you don’t want to tire yourself out before paddling), and within minutes I was floating peacefully on the calm, slow water.
What struck me was the quietness of the place—even though I was technically still in the city, I felt like I had entered another world. The riverbanks were dotted with tall trees and native plants, with the occasional heron or duck floating by.
I’ve been paddleboarding for several years—I’m not an expert, but I’m comfortable standing up or even kneeling for long periods of time. If you’re a beginner, this section of the Rideau River is also an easy ride: no rapids, few boats, and calm waters that give you more confidence.
Because I was using a Funwater inflatable paddle board, I didn’t have to worry about shallow water or struggling to paddle over small rocks or branches. These inflatable paddle boards are surprisingly durable and very portable—ideal if you’re paddling off the beaten path.
Want a quiet, solo paddle? Go in the morning and have a long stretch of river to yourself. Want an afternoon of socializing? I saw at least three groups of friends paddling together, a couple with a cooler strapped to their paddleboards, and one person even brought a puppy along.
I brought a small waterproof bag with snacks and a camera, and stopped on the grassy banks to eat during my paddle. The sun shone through the treetops and the birds chirped overhead—honestly, it was the relaxation I never knew I needed.
If you’re in Ottawa and looking for a weekend stand up paddle board getaway that doesn’t require you to go far, the Rideau River is the place for you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Rideau River suitable for beginner stand up paddle boarders?
Yes! The Rideau River near Ottawa has calm, slow-moving water, making it ideal for beginner paddlers. It’s an easy place to practice your balance and paddle technique without strong currents or boat traffic.
Why choose an inflatable paddle board for a weekend getaway?
An inflatable paddle board is lightweight, easy to transport, and simple to store. It’s perfect for spontaneous weekend trips like paddling the Rideau River, where access points might require a short walk from parking areas.
How durable is an inflatable SUP board for rivers like the Rideau?
Modern inflatable SUP boards like the ones from Funwater are made from rugged materials that can handle shallow spots, branches, and small rocks—no need to worry about dings or cracks like with hard boards.
What should I bring when paddleboarding on a stand up paddle board trip?
For any SUP trip, bring a waterproof bag with essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a phone or camera. If you're paddling for beginner practice, consider a leash and a personal flotation device for safety.
Can I paddleboard alone on the Rideau River with an inflatable paddle board?
Absolutely. Many solo paddlers enjoy the peaceful atmosphere along the Rideau. With an inflatable paddle board, it’s easy to carry and launch on your own—even at quieter, less crowded access points.