Looking for the Perfect Weekend Getaway from Montreal?
Rivière Rouge, tucked in the Laurentians near Mont-Tremblant, is the perfect spot for a weekend escape. Just a two-hour drive from the city, this picturesque river offers a refreshing retreat into nature. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, it features a mix of calm stretches and gentle rapids, making it ideal for kayakers of all skill levels. I recently spent a weekend there with friends, and we had an amazing time! We organized our kayaking excusion through Kayak & Cabana for a hassle-free experience, and here is everything you need to know!
Why Rivière Rouge is a Must-Visit Destination
The river’s name, Rivière Rouge (Red River), comes from the reddish hue of its waters. This unique color is due to high levels of iron oxide and tannins from the surrounding forest and riverbed sediment. The reddish tint is especially noticeable in the shallower, slower-moving sections. This natural coloration adds to the river’s charm and makes it a fascinating spot for nature lovers. With a scenic route through lush forests and beautiful landscapes, the mix of calm waters and gentle rapids is perfect whether you’re a beginner like me, or an experienced paddler.
Getting to Rivière Rouge
Reaching Rivière Rouge is a breeze—just a two-hour drive from Montreal. Head out on Autoroute 15 North, then merge onto Route 117 North toward Saint-Jérôme. Continue on Route 117 until you reach the exit for Rivière Rouge, and follow the local roads to your destination. The drive is straightforward and offers some beautiful views of the Laurentians along the way.
Staying at Rivière Rouge
Rivière Rouge and its surrounding areas offer a range of accommodation options. We stayed at a rustic chalet we found on Airbnb, nestled in the forest right by the river. With two cozy bedrooms, an outdoor dining area, and a firepit, it was an ideal spot to soak up the chalet experience. I highly recommend checking it out!
If you’re looking to stay downtown in Riviere Rouge, there are a number of charming inns and bed and breakfasts close to local amenities. Kayak and Cabana (the kayak operator) also offer a number of unique accommodation options. A short drive away, La Conception offers stunning landscapes with cozy cottages and luxury chalets, providing a peaceful escape. The lakeside lodges around Lac-Supérieur are perfect for anyone into water activities, while the cabins and campgrounds near Lac Nominingue offer a rustic, nature-filled retreat. And if you’re up for a bit more adventure, Mont-Tremblant is just 30 minutes away. This area is renowned for its outdoor activities, from skiing in the winter to hiking and mountain biking in the summer.
Booking with Kayak & Cabanas: What to Expect
Rivière Rouge is open to everyone, so you’re welcome to bring your own kayak or flotation device like a tube or inflatable boat. For a hassle-free experience, we decided to rent kayaks through Kayak & Cabana. This local company makes it easy to rent canoes, kayaks, or stand-up paddle boards for a 12 km self-guided adventure on the river. We booked online two weeks in advance, and the process was smooth and straightforward. Here’s a quick look at the rates:
- Single Kayak: $43.49
- Stand-Up Paddle Board: $43.49
- Canoe (accommodates 2): $86.98
- Double Kayak: $86.98
The rates cover the equipment rental, and the 12 km course takes you downstream. At the end of your journey, you’ll be picked up and shuttled back to the parking lot. The trip usually takes between 3 to 5 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.
The Kayaking Experience
Your kayaking adventure kicks off at Kayak & Cabana, located at 2202 Chemin du Moulin. Upon arrival, you’ll check in and receive life jackets before taking a short walk down to the river. Here, you’ll be provided with your choice of kayak, canoe, or SUP, followed by a brief safety overview. Once you’re set, it’s time to embark on your 12-kilometer descent down the river! The gentle downstream current means minimal paddling is required. Along the way, you’ll notice markers indicating how many kilometers you’ve traveled. There are plenty of beaches and bays to pause for a refreshing dip or a bite to eat, with the best spots found in the second half of the journey.
Keep an eye out for wildlife as you glide through the peaceful surroundings, despite a few other groups floating along. The descent took us about 4 hours, with frequent stops for picnics, swims, and simply soaking in the tranquility from our kayak. At the end of the descent, the Kayak and Cabana exit is clearly marked, and friendly staff are on hand to help you lift your kayak out of the water. The best part? Shuttles are ready to whisk you back to the parking lot in just 10 minutes—no need to paddle upstream!
What to Bring for a Self-Guided Kayaking Adventure
Kayak & Cabana provides life jackets, and the kayak we used had small compartments for storing a few essentials. To ensure you’re fully prepared, here’s a checklist of what to bring:
-SunscreenSwimwear (I recommend wearing your bathers for easy access to the river)
-Towel
-Small Esky with Drinks and Snacks
-Ziplock Bags/ Dry bag (to keep your electronics safe and dry)
-Hat and Sunglasses
-Insect Repellent
-Camera or Smartphone (ensure it’s in a dry bag or with a waterproof case)
-Reusable Water Bottle
Final Thoughts
Kayaking on Rivière Rouge is a must-do activity this summer! With Kayak & Cabana taking care of the logistics, you can simply focus on enjoying the experience. It was one of the highlights of my summer and a fantastic, budget-friendly escape from Montreal. From the breathtaking scenery and tranquil paddling to the cool, refreshing waters, this trip offers all the elements for an unforgettable weekend getaway. Ready to plan your adventure? Book with Kayak & Cabana today and make the most of your summer!
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