15 reasons to discover the Pont-Rouge-Donnacona section of the Jacques-Cartier River with Rivière Concept

Alex Dubreuil
12 hours ago
4 min read

Unique geological discovery

You can observe the stratified layers of sedimentary rock (limestone, sandstone, clay) in the ancient geological formations of the St. Lawrence Lowlands, specifically within the last 17 km of the Jacques-Cartier River (we are changing geographical regions, moving from the Laurentian Mountains to the sedimentary rocks of the St. Lawrence Lowlands). These sedimentary rocks originate from deposits left by the ancient Champlain Sea, a prehistoric sea that covered a large part of Quebec and Ontario during and after the last ice age. Fossils of ancient marine animals (such as shells, corals, and ammonites) can be found there.

Atlantic salmon

You will be navigating the westernmost salmon river in Quebec. An educational opportunity and a source of regional pride.

Additional activities

In addition to a 9.5km rafting or kayaking descent, you will experience:

A cliff jump*

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/d22e96_1a19d0503ac94fc59f7b7f1623627a81/1080p/mp4/file.mp4

Swimming in the rapids*

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/d22e96_64379fdff82b498f93812cc2feb1e2f8/1080p/mp4/file.mp4

A break by the river*

*If the water level allows. Always optional / not mandatory.

Comprehensive training school

If you too catch the whitewater fever and wish to continue your progression in this world, we offer a complete training program:

Whitewater rescue

First aid

Kayaking lessons

Rafting guide

The wildlife

Examples of the wildlife we have been able to observe so far:

White-headed eagle-bird (on almost all descents)
Common Merganser (type of duck)
Beaver

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/d22e96_5aee9aa6760e4bb0937172d32bdc9d0a/1080p/mp4/file.mp4

Striped grass snake

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/d22e96_75fb42e765884c018570397b9d506136/1080p/mp4/file.mp4

Seagull colony

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/d22e96_b5f4753c06294cb497b3125599118762/1080p/mp4/file.mp4

Accessibility

Accessible rapids: the Pont-Rouge-Donnacona section is one of the longest commercial sections of continuous beginner/intermediate class d rapids (R-1 to R-3 rapids) in Quebec, ideal for an adventure accessible to the whole family.

Customized descent

Because we are not all in the same boat… You will be able to mix two types of boats within the same group, so that everyone can have an experience tailored to their expectations and ambitions.

Raft (family profile): Stable and safe, ideal for a family adventure (children from 6 years old).

Kayak (adventure profile): More sporty and immersive, perfect for thrill-seekers (ages 11 and up). Unsinkable and easy to control.

Ecological commitment

Because everything we do has an impact on the planet (and because your money won't just be used to buy new whitewater equipment).

By choosing a socially responsible company, you contribute to the protection of nature in Quebec.

Discover the CBJC Salmon Fish Pass – An Educational and Engaging Experience

All our participants receive a free voucher to visit the CBJC salmon fishway, located just 2 minutes from our base camp. This enriching activity reveals the fascinating story of the Atlantic salmon, nicknamed the king of rivers. Each voucher used directly contributes to the CBJC's work, as we donate its monetary value to support restoration, conservation, and enhancement projects on the Jacques-Cartier River. Enjoy an educational outing while supporting a vital environmental cause!

1% of sales donated to the 1% for the Planet Outdoor Fund.

Only one planet.

1% to protect it.

Protecting terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Protecting wildlife species. Combating and adapting to climate change. Adopting environmentally friendly practices by outdoor and adventure businesses. This is the collective commitment you are part of.

Nature is good for us.

Let's take care of it together.

Base camp

Located in the heart of the Berges Family Park (CINAF – Nature Interpretation and Family Activities Centre) in Donnacona, our base camp combines accessibility, nature and quality infrastructure:

Just 2 minutes from Highway 40.
30 minutes from Quebec City.
Directly on the banks of the magnificent Jacques-Cartier River.
Everything needed to comfortably accommodate large groups.
2 minutes from the Jacques-Cartier Migration Pass

A multitude of options to enrich your visit:

Picnic area with tables and BBQ on the riverbank.
Pavilion and kiosk for hire, perfect for events: birthdays, weddings, business meetings, training sessions, and more.
Children's play area and obstacle course for active family fun.
Hiking trails to explore nature.
sanitary block
Free audio guide (1 hour 30 minutes) to discover and observe the different ecosystems of the park.

With its beautiful location, varied activities and suitable infrastructure, our base camp is an ideal destination for families, groups and nature lovers.

A competent and passionate team of guides

Each guide holds at least:

Canadian Red Cross or equivalent remote area first aid training.
Training as a river safety technician (TR1) from the CSRQ or equivalent.
Level 2 guide training from Eau Vive Québec or equivalent.

On each trip, you have a minimum of 1 senior guide with 400 hours or more of guiding experience.

High-end equipment

We pay close attention to detail. Each piece of equipment has been chosen after careful consideration, and whenever a piece of equipment can be improved, it is!

Group rate

Get the group rate (25% discount) for groups of 13 or more (schools, day camps, corporate events, associations, bachelor/bachelorette parties, etc.). The booking must be made in one transaction.