Paddleboarding Day Trip from Ottawa - Burnstown and Calabogie
This blog post was created with support from Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization and the Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries as part of a series which highlights the Ottawa Valley as a standup paddleboarding destination in Ontario. Check out the other articles in the series; the Ultimate Guide to Standup Paddleboarding in the Ottawa Valley, Paddleboarding in Golden Lake, and Paddleboarding the Ottawa River in Petawawa.
As visitors we respect the land and waterways along the watersheds of the Ottawa River (Kitchisippi) as the Traditional Territory of the Algonquin and Anishinaabeg people. We acknowledge our duty as stewards and caretakers to the natural world and offer gratitude that we may receive an abundance of beauty through our paddling experiences.
Whether you’re looking to go paddleboarding near Ottawa or seeking a nearby day trip to spend a fun day out of the city, Burnstown and Calabogie are just a short drive away to access nature and leave you feeling rejuvenated. Use these suggestions below to plan your own adventure or follow the itinerary for a day that’s sure to be enjoyable!
Morning
FOOD + DRINK // Start the day off well by grabbing a bite to eat, your morning coffee, or a specialty iced matcha to go at Oh-el-la Cafe in Calabogie. Oh-el-la serves up a tasty breakfast menu with options like caramelized banana porridge, smoked salmon bagel, and Mexican eggs benny in a super cute setting to fuel your morning adventures.
PADDLEBOARDING // Visit Mad River Paddle Co at their retail location in the heart of Calabogie for your inflatable paddleboard rental and all the gear you’ll need to have a safe and amazing time exploring on the water. Mad River Paddle Co offers ‘learn to paddle’ lessons and has kayak rentals as well. Join their friendly instructors and paddle community for special social paddle events on Thursday nights throughout the summer.
WHERE TO PADDLE // Whether you’re travelling with your own paddleboard or grabbing a rental, here are 3 recommended places to paddle in the area from Tana at Mad River Paddle Co. Please take note that the Madawaska River is controlled by a dam and river levels may fluctuate at any time. The river flows from Calabogie towards Arnprior (from West to East) and although there might not look like much current, take this into account when setting off and choosing your direction on the river.
Barnet Park on Calabogie Lake - Barnet Park is a nice paddleboarding location on the north side of Calabogie Lake and has a beautiful sandy beach, public washrooms, and a boat launch. The water is relatively shallow near shore, with some rocks.
Burnstown Beach on the Madawaska River - Burnstown Beach is a favourite local spot for families as it has a very large and clean beach, play structures for the kids, and washroom facilities. The water depth drops off quickly and is great for swimming and paddling.
Cherry Point Picnic Area on the Madawaska River - Cherry Point is a picturesque picnic area off of Highway 508 on the Madawaska River. There is a little more flow in the river here and many rocks when the water level is low however with some attention to safety it is a scenic spot for a paddle and swim.
If you’re looking for a one way down river paddle try Cherry Point to Burnstown Beach, roughly 13 km.
Afternoon
FOOD + DRINK // If you’re ready for lunch the good news is that Calabogie has exceptional options for satisfying your hunger. For a modern rustic setting to enjoy bacon wrapped jalapeños, burgers, grilled pineapple salad, tacos (including sautéed mushroom), and gourmet poutine head to Redneck Bistro. If doughy pretzels, sweet potato salad, pizza, or craft beer on tap are calling your name then check out Calabogie Brewing Company. If cocktails, charcuterie boards, and truffle fries are more your style then you’ll likely enjoy dining at On The Rocks.
E-BIKE // There’s a few options for the afternoon if you decide to put the SUPs away. If you’re dropping your paddleboard rental back off at Madawaska River Paddle Co why not exchange it for one of their fat tire electric bike rentals and enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Old K&P Trail from the tourist info booth in Calabogie.
HIKE // If you like hiking and enjoy a good view, add the Eagles Nest lookout to your plans for the day. For more information take a look at Girl Gone Good’s Eagles Nest Trail Report and these important maps and tips from Calabogie Peaks Resort.
VISIT THE FARMER’S MARKET // On Friday afternoons from 2pm to 6pm you can visit the Burnstown Farmer’s Market for fresh produce, jams, local meats, baked goods, and more and take back a tasty treat
FOOD + DRINK // If you’re up for one last taste of the valley to round out your day trip from Ottawa a local gem is the Neat Coffee Shop in Burnstown. Here you can enjoy wood fired pizza and if you enjoy live music be sure to plan your SUP adventure around their concert schedule!
