Our Mission

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Making the inaccessible accessible.

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Long reserved for those in the know, the Jacques-Cartier canyon is an impressive place—hard to reach, and at times, intimidating.

 

That’s where we come in.

 

At Rivière Concept, our mission is to make this river accessible, without taking away its essence.

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Why a turtle as a logo?

 

Rivière Concept was born on the Matawin River, in Mékinac County. The latter comes from the Algonquin word "Mikinak," meaning turtle.

 

The Mauricie region is home to one of the largest known populations of wood turtles in Canada.

 

During the month of June, female turtles move more frequently onto the sandy or gravel shoulders of roads to find a suitable site to lay their eggs, increasing the risk of collision. To report an endangered turtle, visit https://carapace.ca

 

Why RC rather than another company?

 

• Unique geological discovery : You will be able to observe the stratified layers of sedimentary rock (friable shale) on cliffs reaching up to 75 meters, a geological phenomenon unique to the last 17 km of the Jacques-Cartier River. The cliffs add an impressive visual dimension to the descents. Fragile, they are constantly changing under the influence of wind and water. Their layered structures are like an open-air book on the region's geological history. It is said that the spirit of the river cracked the rock...

• Atlantic Salmon : You will navigate the westernmost salmon-bearing river in Quebec. An educational opportunity and a source of regional pride.

• Accessible Rapids : The Pont-Rouge-Donnacona section is one of the longest sections of continuous beginner/intermediate rapids (R-1 to R-3 rapids) in Quebec, ideal for kayaking and family rafting.

• Environmental Commitment : contribute to the conservation and restoration of the Jacques-Cartier River via the CBJC salmon fishway.

• Additional Activities : If water levels permit, you can experience cliff jumping and swimming in the rapids during your trip. Flexible cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

• Top-of-the-line equipment.

• Group rates for 13 people or more.

• Additional safety measures : Each trip is equipped with an automated external defibrillator (AED).

 

Conditions and prerequisites

 

• No experience required: on-site training.

• Minimum age: rafting from 6 years old, kayaking from 11 years old.

• Must understand French and/or English.

• This activity is not suitable for pregnant women.

• Sign a risk acknowledgment form before the activity.

• Receive minimal training/orientation and a safety briefing.

• Transportation of the boat up a steep slope to the launch.

• Minimum 4 people per trip.

• It is prohibited to be under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol for the duration of the activity. Failure to comply with this rule will result in expulsion without notice and without the possibility of a refund.

• Required physical endurance and skill: Good physical condition is recommended to cope with changing weather conditions, swimming in rapids, and paddling for extended periods.

*During periods of high water levels (spring or after heavy rain), rafting is only permitted.

** For people with reduced mobility or special needs, please contact us first to determine if this activity is suitable for you.

 

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Safety Measures

 

Safety is our number one priority, and we take every aspect of it very seriously. We are accredited for "Quality and Safety" by Aventure Écotourisme Québec, the leading network of adventure tourism professionals in Quebec. Accreditation includes more than 60 minimum standards with rigorous criteria, in addition to activity-specific standards, technical training for guides, a company inspection mechanism, and mystery shopping. The AEQ seal certifies that we adhere to the highest safety and quality standards and recognizes all the efforts we make, day after day, to offer the best of the outdoors to our participants.

 

An accredited company has:

• $5 million liability insurance

• Strict safety standards (including a small guide-to-client ratio)

• Specialized and certified local guides

• Quality equipment to make the activity completely safe and enjoyable for visitors

• In-depth knowledge of the natural environment

• An enriching and authentically Quebec experience

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Do I need to arrive early for my activity or training?

 

No, the time indicated is the meeting time for everyone, so it is not necessary to arrive early. If you arrive earlier, you can enjoy the park's amenities, but please note that the guides will not yet be available to welcome you.

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Can I bring my goggles on the water?

 

Yes, but we strongly recommend securing them with a tether, as there is a high risk of losing them. No compensation will be provided for lost or broken glasses.

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Can I bring my cell phone on the water?

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Yes, but at your own risk. We are not responsible for any loss or damage to your phone.

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Is the activity canceled in case of rain?

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Rainy days are often magical! In the canyon, the waterfalls come back to life, offering a fascinating spectacle. In the event of a violent storm, a departure could be delayed or canceled, but this has never happened since 2020.

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Do I need to book in advance?

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As soon as possible! We have a small team and groups fill up quickly.

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When is the best time during the summer?

The real answer: it mostly depends on what you are looking for.
No matter the time, the experience is always adapted to the conditions of the day and the group.

Discovery · family-friendly
Rafting preferred, mainly during summer
Stable and reassuring
A gentle and accessible experience, ideal for a first introduction

Challenge · active
Kayak possible throughout the season or rafting in spring, depending on the river flow
For those who enjoy being active and taking on a challenge

Advanced · adrenaline
Kayak and rafting when the river flow is very high
Early in spring or occasionally after heavy rainfall
For participants already comfortable in whitewater

👉 The final choice between kayak or raft is always made according to the conditions of the day.