Looking for a way to spend your leisure time with excitement and adrenaline? Ottawa offers extreme activities on land, in the air, and on water. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the capital of Canada has countless options to raise your adrenaline levels. Wondering what to try? Ottawa Name presents some thrilling ideas.
Interzip Rogers
This exciting adventure, launched in the summer of 2021, has already captured the attention of Ottawa residents and visitors. It’s the world’s first interprovincial zipline, connecting Ontario’s Ottawa with Gatineau, Quebec. Along the ride, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views, including the iconic Parliament Hill.
Interzip Rogers operates during both day and night, with the evening rides offering a spectacular view of the city lights. A multi-angle video recording of your journey ensures you’ll have a lasting memory of the thrill.
Great Canadian Bungee
Located just 20 minutes from downtown Ottawa, this spot offers a 61-metre bungee jump platform, with rebounds that exceed the height of the jump itself. If you love adrenaline, this is an experience not to miss.
Note that the Great Canadian Bungee is closed during winter, but visitors consistently praise it as Canada’s premier bungee jumping site.
Rafting in Ottawa
From May to September, rafting on the Ottawa River is a favourite among thrill-seekers. Located west of downtown Ottawa, Beachburg is the hub for rafting adventures, offering options for both light thrills and expert-level excitement. Some companies also provide sunset boat cruises and hot tub experiences to complement your adventure.
The Ottawa River’s numerous channels create an ideal environment for rafting, making it one of the best places for this activity in Canada.
Kayaking
Discover the rapids of the Ottawa River with a kayaking adventure. Wilderness Tours, Canada’s largest kayaking outfitter, offers programs for all ages, from one-day excursions to week-long, adrenaline-packed adventures.
Kayaking lessons are held near the Canadian War Museum, just a five-minute drive from Parliament Hill, making it convenient for visitors to try their hand at navigating the water.
Paddling at Wabakimi Park
For those seeking a more immersive experience, paddling near Wabakimi Park is worth the journey. Each year, at least 700 visitors paddle through the pristine wilderness of Ontario. Guided tours are available to help you make the most of this serene yet adventurous activity.
If you’re traveling from Ottawa, consider pairing your visit to Wabakimi with stops at nearby landmarks, such as the White Bear statue in Cochrane or the Iroquois Falls.
Camp Fortune
Located just 15 minutes north of downtown Ottawa, Camp Fortune offers three-hour nature adventures that include ladders, zipline descents, zigzag bridges, and treetop challenges in Gatineau Park. For an extra thrill, try free-fall jumps or hill descents.
This destination is also perfect for trail running, hiking, and extreme mountain biking, ensuring something for every adrenaline enthusiast.
Parachute GO Skydive
For skydiving enthusiasts, Parachute GO Skydive in Gatineau, Quebec, is the place to be. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced jumper, their “First Jump” program offers a breathtaking experience.
Each session begins with a 15-minute training session, followed by a jump featuring freefall speeds of 200 km/h and a scenic parachute descent offering stunning views of Ottawa and Gatineau.
Ottawa Biplane Adventures
If freefalling isn’t your thing, consider an exhilarating biplane ride. Located at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, Ottawa Biplane Adventures offers flights in an authentic 1939 WACO UPF-7 biplane from WWII.
This unique activity is perfect for couples or friends, as the plane accommodates two passengers alongside the pilot. It’s an excellent opportunity to capture stunning aerial selfies and enjoy panoramic views of Ottawa.
Jet Skiing
During the warmer months, the Ottawa River is ideal for jet skiing. Head to Orleans in the city’s eastern suburbs for high-speed fun on the water. Staff will provide safety instructions, necessary equipment, and tips to ensure your adventure is both safe and exhilarating.
Rock Climbing
For rock climbing enthusiasts, Thunder Bay offers exceptional opportunities, regardless of skill level. This area, known for its diverse geological formations, provides one-day tours and guided hikes to explore its hidden gems.
After a day of climbing, consider staying in a cozy lakeside cabin at Whitefish Lake for a well-rounded outdoor experience.
Camping in Killarney
Explore Georgian Bay by kayak, hike rolling trails, and camp on granite islands in Killarney. The pink granite and white quartzite hills that inspired Canada’s Group of Seven painters are breathtaking.
One of the best spots for camping is George Lake Campground, featuring sites along the beach or nestled in forested areas. Reservations are recommended, as this popular destination often books out months in advance.
Extreme Adventures: What to Choose?
Ottawa and its surroundings offer countless options for thrill-seekers. To narrow down your choices, start by deciding on your preferred element: air, land, water, or a mix of all three. Whether you’re looking to test your limits, overcome fears, or simply have fun, there’s something for everyone.
Ottawa isn’t just a picturesque and historic city; it’s also an adventure-filled destination. Explore its extreme offerings with friends or loved ones to create unforgettable memories together.