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Beginner-Friendly Waterfall Paddle Less Than 20 Minutes From Arnprior
Just 20 minutes outside of Arnprior is one of the Ottawa Valley's best-kept paddling secrets.
The Bonnechere River, a historic waterway rich with stories, offers a short and gentle journey to a hidden gem: the First Chute, also known as Bonnechere Falls.
The Bonnechere River and Its Chutes
The Bonnechere River stretches 145 km from Algonquin Park before meeting the Ottawa River. Along its course are five sets of waterfalls called "chutes," natural features that played an important role in the area's logging history. Timber once rushed down these waters, guided through the chutes on its way to market.
Today, the river is much quieter, perfect for paddlers looking to explore. This is the only waterfall in the area that is accessible by kayak or canoe, making it a truly unique paddling experience!
How to Get to Horton Boat Launch
Horton Boat Launch is easy to reach and makes this adventure accessible for everyone.
Getting there
- From Arnprior: Take County Road 1 (River Road) west for about 20 km. The launch will be on your right, about 18 minutes from town.
- From Renfrew: Head west on Highway 60, then turn onto County Road 20. Follow it to River Road (County Road 1) and turn right. The launch will be about 2.5 km ahead on your left. Driving time is about 15 minutes.
- From Ottawa: It's less than an hour's drive. Simply head west toward Arnprior and follow County Road 1.
Address: 3712-3746 River Road, Renfrew, ON K7V 3Z8
Launching at Horton Boat Launch
Our journey began at the Horton Boat Launch, a convenient spot with a dock that makes getting in and out of your kayak effortless. From there, it's an easy paddle upstream, about 1.5 km, to reach the falls. Even at a relaxed pace, it only took us around 20 minutes to arrive.
This stretch of river is ideal for kids or pets just starting their paddling journey. The current is gentle, the route is short, and the reward at the end is incredible. Watching the falls cascade over the rocks is the perfect motivator for little adventurers.
Wildlife Encounters
On our way upstream, we paddled up to a blue heron and watched it from afar. It was our daughter's first time seeing one! Back downstream, we spotted turtles sunbathing on logs and an osprey circling overhead. This part of the river is alive with wildlife, and every trip promises a new discovery. For families, it's a chance to turn a simple paddle into a nature walk on water.
Safety at the Falls
As with any waterfalls, there are safety precautions you should follow. Bonnechere Falls is stunning, but the water at the base is powerful, with strong currents and an undertow.
It's best to keep a safe distance of at least 20-30 feet from the falls, especially if you have young children or pets with you. From that distance, you can still soak in the view, listen to the roar of the water, and capture great photos without putting anyone at risk.
Meeting the Ottawa River
Once back at the launch, we paddled out to where the Bonnechere meets the Ottawa River. The scenery opens wide here, and while the views are beautiful, it's important to be prepared. The Ottawa is a big river with stronger currents and more boat traffic.
⚠️ We recommend sticking to the calmer edges unless you're in a capable touring kayak and are experienced with larger water. As always, it's never a good idea to attempt to cross the Ottawa, especially on windy days.
Choosing the Right Kayaks
For this trip, we used the Hurricane Santee 116 and the Delta 10AR. Both kayaks are short and stable, which makes them easy to manoeuvre. Their open cockpits are perfect for bringing kids or pets along, and the designs are well-suited for short, fun journeys like this one.
Paddling with Kids
Taking children out on the water can be a fun and memorable experience, as long as you keep safety and comfort in mind. Kids must always wear a Transport Canada approved lifejacket that fits properly.
To keep little ones engaged, pack a few things they enjoy. Snacks are a lifesaver, helping to keep energy up and moods happy. Small toys or books in a dry bag are also great, anything that can fit comfortably in your kayak and keep your child busy between paddling breaks. For more tips on making your family adventure smooth and enjoyable, check out our full guide here: Your Guide to Paddling with Kids.
Why Families and Pet Owners Will Love It
This paddle checks all the boxes: short, safe, scenic, and filled with wildlife. The launch is accessible, the water is calm, and the destination is rewarding. Whether it's your child's first kayak trip or your dog's first time on the water, Bonnechere Falls offers an adventure that everyone can enjoy.
With love from the Valley,
Lana
