From idyllic nature spots that both preserve and challenge the industries that made this region wealthy in the 19th century to the high-adrenaline thrills of whitewater rafting or the unassuming birthplace of what Canadian hockey is today, there’s a lot to discover in this part of the Ottawa Valley.
Get a guided tour into everyday life between the late-19th and mid-20th centuries at this lovingly restored open-air museum, offering everything from a historic schoolhouse to the pre-history of the area, an authentic pointer boat and the area’s first motorized fire engine.
Learn about Arnprior’s social history and the poignant story of her residents’ roles in two World Wars at this intimate museum, which also runs a full programme of children’s activities.
A trail with 19 numbered points that takes you on a 4km wander through beautiful conservation land with convenient boardwalks, viewing platforms, and benches that allow you to explore without disturbing the surrounding nature.
Visit the Bonnechere Caves for a walk through one of Ontario's best natural underground wonders. This experience will intrigue visitors of all ages, with guided tours also available. Look up, and you might lay eyes on some bats!
The Ottawa Valley is home to some of the best whitewater rafting in the world. The Madawaska Kanu Centre offers visitors the opportunity to wind along five-kilometres of tumbling whitewater in a wilderness setting. For those looking to improve on their skills, courses are also available.
Other notable operators include Owl Rafting and Wilderness Tours. What are you waiting for? Pick an operator that works for your level of intensity and schedule and head for the fast-flowing, choppy waters.
Traverse the 14 km network of maintained trails during all seasons of the year - dawn to dusk. A family-owned property, visitors will pass by parts of 50 hectares of old-growth forest and 160 hectares of wetlands and mixed forest. They also offer education programs to the community related to environmental stewardship.