Waterfall Type: Rock Rapids
In the Waterfalls of Ontario Project, the term 'Rapids' is used to denote a swiftly moving section of river that generates whitewater. Bedrock is always present and usually breaks the water surface.
I use the term 'Rock Rapids' to describe what is usually a smaller, flatter waterfall that doesn't have a specific 'focus point'. Sometimes the site is considered a 'rapids' because the word is part of the traditional placename.
Rock Rapids grade into Slope Cascades; in both cases the river or creek tumbles over a rocky bedrock exposure. Some rapids could be considered cascades and vice-versa.
I normally only include rapids in this collection if they are created when the river crosses over bedrock. This is my main criteria for waterfalls as well.
There are thousands of rapids that occur on non-bedrock streams. I call these "Soft Rapids" and don't include them here.
Soft Rapids can still be picturesque and rewarding to find. If you live in an area without true waterfalls, soft rapids can give a bit of a waterfall 'fix' until you can visit the real thing.
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