Descending the Picanoc River With Carpe Diem Aventures

The Outaouais region of Quebec is known for having so many amazing bodies of water, whether it be lakes or rivers. Fortunately, with all this water comes great locations to go kayaking, canoeing or paddle boarding. One of my favorite things to do during the summer is to descend a river in a kayak or paddle board. Unfortunately, this is sometimes not always easy because you usually need to have multiple vehicles and know exactly where to get into and out of the river. Luckily, Carpe Diem Aventures make this process a whole lot simpler and more fun! With them, descend the beautiful Picanoc River with ease and enjoyment!

What do you get for your buck?

Carpe Diem Aventures not only offers awesome accommodations (cabins, suspended tents, etc.), they also rent equipment and offer transportation. For 50$ +tx for people 12 years and older for a full day (10 km) on the Picanoc River or 40$+tx for a half-day (5 km), you get all the necessary equipment and transportation. Essentially, you get a worry-free day on the river. Prices are 15$ less for kids under 12 years old that adult prices. These prices include your choice of kayak, canoe or paddle board, a life jacket, a paddle, and all other necessary safety items. Also, the transportation from the end point to the starting point of your journey on the river is included. Already own your own kayak or paddle board? Carpe Diem also offers just the transportation for only 15$ +tx.

What to expect during your day with Carpe Diem Aventures?

First, you arrive at the main office at 95 Rue Saint Joseph in Gracefield (Quebec) where you register and sign a waiver. Afterwards, you will leave with your car and follow an employee who will bring you to the end point of your descent of the Picanoc River. There, you will leave your car and hope in the company’s vehicle and head to the starting point of the descent. At the starting point, you get into the water with your kayak, canoe or paddle board and start your descent.

We chose to take a kayak down the river and took the full-day package. The river itself is calm with only a short section where there is a little rapid (in the second half of your journey). Along the shoreline, there are many spots to stop, relax, go for a swim, and even have a bite to eat. Don’t forget, this isn’t a race. Unlike many companies in Quebec who offer this kind of service, Carpe Diem Aventures does not pressure you to finish at a certain time. They want you to relax and have a good time on the water. It took us 7 hours to complete this journey, but we really took our time and appreciated the great weather we had.

What should you bring?

To maximize your day and have a blast, here are some items I recommend you bring with you on this journey:

• Tones of sun cream…You don’t want to look like afterwards!
• Bug spray (with at least 25% DEET) if you are going during the mosquito season.
• Swim suite…because you are going to get wet!
• A good hat…Got to protect the head from the sun!
• Food (lunch or snack).
• Water, lots of water!
• Water shoes or sandals.
• And finally, a waterproof bad for your valuables and cellphone.

What else do I recommend you check whilst visiting the town of Gracefield?

This is a lovely corner of the Outaouais region. Consider spending the night at Carpe Diem Aventures in one of their accommodations. You could sleep in a suspended tent! Why not go for a hike up the Mont Cayamant and its observation tower or in the Mont Morissette Regional Park in Blue Sea (Quebec). In need of some sweets? Check out MC Chaloin where you can purchase delicious artisan chocolates and Italian ice cream! For food, no need to go far. Carpe Diem Aventures actually runs a bistro which offers great meals made with local and regional products! The Bistro is located just behind their equipment rental office in Gracefield.

Summary:

• Full day (10 km): 50$+tx for adults / 35$+tx for kids under 12 years old.
• Half day (5 km) : 40$ +tx for adults / 25$ +tx for kids under 12 years old.
• Choice of kayak, paddle board or canoe.
• Transportation and equipment included.
• Bring water, sun cream, a hat, and some food!