Best Parks & Green Spaces in Ottawa, Canada

Ottawa, Canada, Ottawa, Outdoor & Adventure, Best Parks & Green Spaces

Best Parks & Green Spaces in Ottawa, Canada

All Topics about Ottawa     All Cities in Canada

1. Gatineau Park

A vast nature reserve with over 360 km² of forests and hiking trails. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the untouched beauty of Ottawa's wilderness.
  • Scenic Viewpoints: Offers panoramic views of the Gatineau Hills and Ottawa Valley.
  • Hiking Opportunities: Provides over 200 km of hiking trails, suitable for all levels.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, moose, and black bears.

2. Rideau Canal

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic waterway is transformed into the world's longest skating rink in winter.
  • Historical Significance: Built between 1826 and 1832, it was essential to British military strategy.
  • Recreational Activities: Offers boating, biking, walking, and skating opportunities throughout the year.
  • Scenic Beauty: Features beautiful landscapes, locks, and historic buildings along its length.

3. Major's Hill Park

Located in downtown Ottawa, it offers a peaceful escape with stunning views of the city and Parliament Hill.
  • Parliament Hill View: Provides an unobstructed view of the iconic Parliament Buildings.
  • Peace Tower Bell: The Peace Tower's hourly bell provides a distinct soundtrack for your visit.
  • Beaver Tails Pastries: Famous BeaverTails pastries can be found at the ByWard Market, near the park.

4. Dominion Arboretum

A unique collection of trees and shrubs from around the world, with over 40 hectares of gardens and trails.
  • Botanical Diversity: Features over 4,500 species of trees and shrubs.
  • Seasonal Beauty: Beautiful throughout all four seasons, with blooming flowers in the spring and colorful foliage in the fall.
  • Kids' Corner: Includes a children's play area with interactive exhibits.

5. Queen Elizabeth Driveway

A scenic parkway along the Rideau River offering bike paths, picnic areas, and wildlife sightings.
  • Bike-Friendly Pathways: Provides a dedicated path for cyclists alongside the picturesque Rideau River.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Offers opportunities to spot beavers, herons, and other wildlife.
  • Scenic Picnic Spots: Features numerous picnic areas along the river, perfect for a relaxing lunch.

6. Hog's Back Falls

A picturesque set of waterfalls on the Rideau River, with walking paths and picnic areas.
  • Waterfall Viewing: Offers stunning views of the cascading Hog's Back Falls.
  • Photography Opportunities: Ideal for capturing beautiful photos of the falls and surrounding landscape.
  • Picnic Areas: Features picnic areas and grills for a convenient meal.

7. Greenbelt Park

A vast protected area on the outskirts of Ottawa, offering hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails.
  • Hiking Opportunities: Provides over 160 km of hiking trails, suitable for all levels.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and coyotes.
  • Equestrian Trails: Offers over 150 km of trails specifically designed for horseback riding.

8. Tremblant Forest

A serene forest reserve with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a beautiful pond.
  • Hiking Trails: Offers over 15 km of hiking trails, suitable for all levels.
  • Picnic Areas: Features picnic areas near the tranquil pond.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Home to a variety of wildlife, including beavers and birds.

9. Dow's Lake Pavilion

A popular spot for picnics, skating, and the annual Bluesfest music festival.
  • Picnic Areas: Offers numerous picnic areas with beautiful views of Dow's Lake.
  • Skating in Winter: Transforms into a large skating rink during the winter months.
  • Bluesfest Music Festival: Hosts the annual Ottawa Bluesfest, a popular music festival in July.

10. Ottawa River Pathway

A long, scenic pathway along the Ottawa River, perfect for walking, cycling, and in-line skating.
  • Waterfront Views: Offers stunning views of the Ottawa River and downtown Ottawa.
  • Recreational Activities: Provides opportunities for walking, cycling, and in-line skating.
  • Park Stops: Features numerous parks along the pathway, providing rest stops.

11. Dow's Lake Ravine Park

A natural park with walking trails and picnic areas, offering a peaceful escape from the city.
  • Natural Beauty: Features a tranquil ravine and forested areas.
  • Picnic Areas: Offers numerous picnic areas with beautiful views of Dow's Lake.
  • Walking Trails: Provides walking trails suitable for all levels.

12. Mooney's Bay Park

A popular park with a beach, sports facilities, and picnic areas.
  • Beach Access: Offers a sandy beach on the Ottawa River.
  • Sports Facilities: Includes sports fields, tennis courts, and a skate park.
  • Picnic Areas: Features numerous picnic areas with beautiful views of the Ottawa River.

13. LeBreton Flats Park

A large park in development, eventually offering green spaces, sports facilities, and a public art gallery.
  • Future Developments: Includes future plans for green spaces, sports facilities, and a public art gallery.
  • Community Engagement: Provides opportunities for community input and engagement in the development process.
  • Public Art Gallery: Will feature a public art gallery, showcasing local and international artists.

14. Pinhey's Point Historic Site

A historic mansion and estate on the shores of Gatineau Park, offering tours, picnic areas, and hiking trails.
  • Historical Tours: Offers guided tours of the historic mansion.
  • Picnic Areas: Features picnic areas with beautiful views of the Gatineau Hills.
  • Hiking Trails: Provides hiking trails through the scenic Gatineau Park.

15. Petrie Island

A small peninsula on the Ottawa River offering beaches, picnic areas, and hiking trails.
  • Beach Access: Offers two sandy beaches on the Ottawa River.
  • Picnic Areas: Features numerous picnic areas with beautiful views of the Ottawa River.
  • Hiking Trails: Provides hiking trails through the scenic island.
All Cities in Canada