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Playspot: Canada, Quebec, St-Maurice River, Rapide des Hetres

What's it like

The Rapide des Hetres (Rapid of the beech trees) is a well-known playspot in Trois-Rivieres area.

In spring, a very dynamic and fast 5-footer wave forms on the upper part, ideal for areal moves and sticky enough to assure a long ride. You need high water levels for the wave to be present. As the level goes down, a little hole appears on the lower end of the rapid (no pictures shown). The hole is fun and good for learning, but it's not a real substitute for the wave. A large eddy is available.

How to get there

From Montreal, take Highway 40 east to St-Louis-de-France (after Trois-Rivieres), then north till you get the indication to Shawinigan-sud and turn right at the gas station traffic light. About 6 kms further, you will find the Rapide des Hetres Road on your left. Follow the road to the water, park here and paddle upstream to the spot.

From Quebec, take Highway 40 west to exit 220, then north to Shawinigan-sud (follow the indications), the Rapide des Hetres Road will appear on your right. Follow the road to the water, park here and paddle upstream to the spot.

More info

Adrenergie kayak school. Phone: +1 819 697 3220

Locals

A bunch of happy paddlers...

Info sources

Charles Ostiguy