The rock sculptures are not permanently fixed; they are rebuilt every spring by John Felice Ceprano to accommodate seasonal changes and river ice flow.
The location was renamed Remic Rapids Park as part of a larger initiative to reflect the Indigenous heritage of the Ottawa River, known as Kichi Zībī.
The park's stone formations rely solely on gravity and friction, utilizing no adhesives or mechanical fasteners.
The rapids are caused by the drop in elevation of the Ottawa River, which was historically used for log driving during the timber industry era.
Remic Rapids Park is a waterfront park located along the Ottawa River, famous for the balancing rock sculptures created by artist John Felice Ceprano. The site features unique geological formations and rapids that create a rhythmic soundscape along the shoreline. Visitors can walk along the Kichi Zībī Mīkan multi-use pathway that directly borders the park. The sculptures are site-specific, reconstructed annually by the artist using stones gathered from the immediate riverbed. The area is managed by the National Capital Commission and serves as a public space for both river viewing and artistic appreciation. The site provides views of the Ottawa River looking toward the Gatineau hills.
The shoreline edge where the balancing rock sculptures are framed against the backdrop of the river rapids.
Bring water shoes if you intend to wade near the riverbank, as the shore is predominantly rocky rather than sandy.
Visit during low tide or low-water periods in mid-summer for the best access to the shoreline sculptures.
Keep a safe distance from the sculptures, as the stones are delicate and can shift or collapse if touched.
Attempting to climb or sit on the rock sculptures, which can lead to accidental damage or personal injury.
The rock sculptures are seasonal and are typically absent during the winter months due to ice accumulation.
Practice 'Leave No Trace' principles; do not rearrange the rocks or add your own stone stacks to the artist's existing sculptures.
