The Ottawa River, known to the Algonquin as Kitchisippi, stretches approximately 1,270 kilometres and forms much of the border between Quebec and Ontario. The Quebec shoreline is defined by the Laurentian Mountains, with dramatic cliffs dropping directly to the water's edge in several locations. The most notable of these is Oiseau Rock, situated roughly 12 kilometres downstream of Deep River, which also features red ochre paintings and a hiking trail. Numerous rivers and streams descend from the Laurentians along the Quebec shore, and the river offers miles of sandy beaches, particularly on the Quebec side opposite communities like Deep River and Horton, where kilometre after kilometre of white sand beaches reward paddlers willing to cross the main channel.

The river accommodates a wide range of paddling styles. Flatwater touring by canoe or kayak is well suited to the broader, calmer sections, while whitewater paddlers will find rapids ranging from Class 1 through Class 5, particularly in the upper sections near Rapides-des-Joachims (locally known as Swisha). This village in Quebec, situated a few kilometres north of Rolphton on Highway 17, serves as a common access point for the upper river. Whitewater ratings span Class 1 to 5, and the season generally runs from May to November. Novice paddlers should only attempt whitewater sections accompanied by experienced paddlers, and all rapids should be properly scouted and portaged as required. The upper river is notably isolated, and paddlers should consult maps and guidebooks before setting out.

Campsites are abundant along the river. The river carries significant historical weight as the primary access route into much of North America for First Nations peoples, European explorers, fur traders, missionaries, and settlers. Evidence of the logging era remains visible, including the ruins of the Great Slide used for log transport until 1895, located near the Great Fall, where the river drops 125 feet. Boat traffic can be heavy in some sections, so paddlers should remain alert, particularly near marinas and developed waterfronts. Esprit Whitewater, based in Davidson, Quebec, offers canoe trips, rentals, and shuttle services for those seeking guided access to the river and its tributaries.