Rideau Falls
Ontario • 11 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Drive Up
Trail Length
0.6 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Rideau Falls
The Rideau Falls are two waterfalls located in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, where the Rideau River empties into the Ottawa River.
The Setting
Rideau Falls sits at 40 metres in the coastal lowlands of Ontario. The falls drop 11 metres.
Height: 35 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Hog's Back Falls (18 m) lies 7.9 kilometres to the south.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
No hiking required. Rideau Falls is accessible by vehicle with a roadside viewing area.
Trail Description
There is no significant trail required to access Rideau Falls, paved sidewalks, short pathways and viewing platforms in Rideau Falls Park provide direct access from nearby streets and parking. Surfaces are typically paved or hard-packed; expect short distances from street to viewpoints.
What to Expect
The falls drop 11 metres.
Accessibility
This waterfall is viewable from a vehicle-accessible area. No hiking is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Rideau Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Rideau Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring for highest flows and dramatic runoff; late spring through fall for comfortable weather and good visibility; winter can provide striking ice formations but presents slip and cold hazards. Weekdays and early mornings are less crowded than midday weekends.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with the managing park or local authority for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards include slippery surfaces (especially when wet or icy), steep or unstable river edges, strong currents in the river, and cold water temperatures. Do not climb on rocks or barriers; supervise children closely. In winter, ice near the falls is dangerous and may not be stable. Follow posted signs and municipal guidance.
Current Water Conditions
31.9 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 92 years of record
3.01 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the WSC gauge RIDEAU RIVER AT OTTAWA (7 km away).
Today
Roaring
32 m³/s
9/10Tomorrow
Roaring
33 m³/s
8/10Tue
Roaring
35 m³/s
6/10Wed
Roaring
34 m³/s
6/10Thu
Roaring
34 m³/s
8/10Fri
Roaring
36 m³/s
6/10Sat
Roaring
34 m³/s
8/10Best window: Today — roaring flow, mainly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to mid May, peaking in April.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest WSC stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Ottawa hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Located at the downstream end of the Rideau River where it joins the Ottawa River, adjacent to Rideau Falls Park and the end of Rideau Street. From downtown Ottawa drive east on Rideau Street toward the river; the falls and park are at the riverfront. The site is about 1.4 miles from central Ottawa and is accessible by car, bicycle, or city bus routes that serve the downtown/riverside area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Limited on-street parking and nearby municipal lots; short walk from downtown parking and public transit. Expect busy conditions during peak tourist times; public transit and walking are convenient alternatives.
Elevation
40 metres above sea level
Coordinates
45.441437° N, -75.695951° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Stay on marked paths and viewing areas; bank and river edges can be steep and slippery. Use public transit or downtown parking to avoid limited local parking. Spring run-off increases flow and spray, wear a waterproof layer if standing close. Be cautious near ice in winter; avoid walking on river ice. Check City of Ottawa website or local signage for temporary closures or maintenance.
Where to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Rideau Heights Campground
11.1 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Downtown Ottawa, Rideau Canal (locks), Parliament Hill, ByWard Market, Major's Hill Park, Ottawa River pathways and lookout points.
Wildlife
Urban and riverside wildlife such as waterfowl (ducks, gulls), riverine birds, and occasional small mammals along the riverbanks. Wildlife presence varies by season.
Cities near Rideau Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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