What could be better than a stroll in pleasant weather through the picturesque areas of Canada’s capital? Ottawa offers an abundance of scenic spots that provide the perfect backdrop for exploring new paths, enjoying peaceful moments, romantic dates, or meeting up with friends.
Ottawa Name will guide you through some of the city’s best walking trails and share the fascinating history behind these destinations.
Walking Trails in Ottawa
Walking trails in Ottawa are beloved by many, offering a sense of serenity and inspiration. These paths are frequently shared by cyclists, joggers, and active recreation enthusiasts, including rollerbladers. Whatever your preference, the city’s landscapes, the vibrant greenery of its outskirts, and its striking natural oases are sure to captivate you.
- Ottawa River Pathway: This 31-kilometre route can be tackled in sections for a more leisurely experience. Starting at the historic Rideau Canal locks, the path leads visitors past the iconic Parliament Hill and onto the Canadian War Museum’s western grounds. Stunning views accompany walkers throughout the route, remaining equally mesmerizing regardless of the season or time of day.
- Rideau Canal Western Pathway: A serene route through lush parks and tulip-filled areas. Take a break in The Glebe neighbourhood or by Dow’s Lake to enhance your stroll.
The Capital Greenbelt
The Capital Greenbelt is a vast expanse of ecologically diverse land spanning 20,000 hectares. Established in the 1950s, it remains the largest publicly managed greenbelt in the world, encompassing forests, wetlands, and farms.
Shaped like a horseshoe, the Greenbelt begins in downtown Ottawa and extends across both shores of the Ottawa River. It includes distinct sectors such as:
- Pine Grove
- Green’s Creek
- Mer Bleue
- Shirley’s Bay
- Stony Swamp
- Pinhey Forest and Southern Farm
- Greenbelt Farmlands, with the Pine Grove Trail being the largest at 18.4 km.
With over 150 km of trails, the Greenbelt offers countless opportunities for exploration. Visitors are particularly drawn to Mer Bleue, one of southern Ontario’s largest bogs, which provides a rare glimpse into northern boreal landscapes.
Dominion Arboretum and Ornamental Gardens
For those seeking beauty and inspiration, Dominion Arboretum and the Ornamental Gardens of the Central Experimental Farm are ideal destinations.
- Dominion Arboretum: Open from dawn to dusk, this 35-hectare space features plantings dating back to 1889. Visitors can wander among a diverse collection of trees and shrubs.
- Ornamental Gardens: Spanning 3.2 hectares, these gardens showcase historic and contemporary flower varieties, creating a paradise for photography enthusiasts.
- Tropical Greenhouse: Located on Maple Drive, this octagonal structure houses exotic plants. Originally built in Major’s Hill Park, it was relocated to the farm in 1938 and officially opened in the 1970s.
- Fletcher Wildlife Garden: Just minutes from downtown, this tranquil haven offers trails through old and new forests, butterfly meadows, and ponds teeming with amphibians.
Gatineau Park
Just a 10-minute drive from Ottawa, Gatineau Park in Quebec spans 361 square kilometres and boasts 165 walking trails. Highlights include dense forests, serene lakes, towering cliffs, and stunning vistas from lookout points. Visitors can enjoy unparalleled views of the Ottawa Valley in every season.
In winter, the park transforms into a hub for skiing, fat biking, and snowshoeing.
Camp Fortune
Situated in Gatineau Park, Camp Fortune offers over 20 kilometres of trails, popular among runners, hikers, and mountain bikers. The area features challenging vertical routes, making it a favourite training spot for bikers from Ontario and Quebec.
Escaping the City
In the bustling rhythm of Canada’s capital, finding time for yourself can feel impossible. Walking tours through Ottawa’s parks and gardens offer a much-needed escape from the daily grind. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, these serene locations promise peace and inspiration, making them perfect for your next outing.