Hiking & Outdoor Adventures Nearby in Ottawa, Canada

Ottawa, Canada, Ottawa, Outdoor & Adventure, Hiking & Outdoor Adventures Nearby

Hiking & Outdoor Adventures Nearby in Ottawa, Canada

1. Gatineau Park

Enjoy breathtaking views and over 200 km of hiking trails in this expansive park straddling both Ottawa and Gatineau.
  • Diverse Terrain: Features a variety of landscapes, from rugged cliffs to peaceful lakes.
  • Picnic Spots: Offers numerous picnic areas perfect for relaxing after a long hike.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Provides opportunities to spot wildlife such as moose, deer, and beavers.

2. Greenbelt Trails

Discover Ottawa's urban wilderness with over 100 km of multi-use trails within the city.
  • Accessibility: Connected to numerous neighborhoods and bike paths, making it easily accessible.
  • Eco-friendly Education: Educational signage helps visitors learn about local ecosystems and wildlife.
  • Urban Wildlife Viewing: Offers opportunities to see urban coyotes, beavers, and various bird species.

3. Bruce Pit Conservation Area

An old limestone quarry turned nature reserve with several hiking trails and a lake.
  • Quarry History: Features remnants of the former limestone operation and offers historical insights.
  • Lake Activities: Offers swimming, canoeing, and fishing during summer months.
  • Wildflower Viewing: Features a variety of wildflowers in the spring and early summer.

4. Mer Bleue Bog

Explore one of Canada's largest peat bogs with boardwalk trails and educational exhibits.
  • Boardwalk Trails: Allows easy exploration of the bog without disturbing the delicate ecosystem.
  • Wetland Conservation: Focuses on the conservation and education of wetland ecosystems.
  • Bird Watching: Offers excellent birdwatching opportunities, including rare species like the black tern.

5. Mooney's Bay Park

Experience scenic views of the Rideau River and enjoy hiking trails through wooded areas.
  • River Views: Offers stunning views of the Rideau River and its surrounding landscapes.
  • Historic Site: Features the historic Mooney's Bay Dam, built in the late 1800s.
  • Water Sports: Provides opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and swimming during summer months.

6. Jack Pine Trail

Experience a challenging hike through the Carp Hills, featuring steep terrain and beautiful views.
  • Steep Terrain: Features steep climbs and descents, offering a challenging hiking experience.
  • Scenic Viewpoints: Offers several viewpoints with panoramic views of the valley below.
  • Nature Photography: Ideal for capturing scenic photos, particularly during fall foliage season.

7. White Lake Conservation Area

Enjoy hiking trails, a pristine lake, and opportunities for wildlife viewing in this conservation area.
  • Pristine Lake: Features a clear, tranquil lake perfect for canoeing or kayaking.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Provides opportunities to spot wildlife such as white-tailed deer and beaver.
  • Historical Ruins: Includes the remnants of a former mill, adding a touch of history to your hike.

8. Tremblant Creek Conservation Area

Hike through a beautiful forested area along Tremblant Creek, with opportunities for wildlife viewing.
  • Waterfall Viewing: Features several waterfalls cascading down the slopes.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Offers chances to see birds, mammals, and amphibians in their natural habitat.
  • Forested Trails: Provides a peaceful, forested hiking experience.

9. Ottawa River Pathway

Follow the scenic Ottawa River along this multi-use pathway, perfect for cycling or walking.
  • Scenic Views: Offers stunning views of the Ottawa River and its surroundings.
  • Urban Connection: Connects numerous neighborhoods, making it easily accessible from many locations.
  • Recreational Activities: Offers opportunities for cycling, jogging, and rollerblading during summer months.

10. Carp Ridge

Experience a challenging hike up the Carp Ridge for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
  • Challenging Hike: Features steep climbs, making it a challenging hiking experience.
  • Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the Ottawa Valley and the Gatineau Hills.
  • Nature Photography: Ideal for capturing scenic photos, particularly during fall foliage season.

11. Pine Grove Forest

Hike through a beautiful forested area with opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
  • Forested Trails: Provides a peaceful, forested hiking experience.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Offers chances to see wildlife such as white-tailed deer and various bird species.
  • Birdwatching Opportunities: Ideal for birdwatching, particularly during spring and fall migrations.

12. Petrie Island Park

Enjoy a scenic hike or bike ride along the Ottawa River, with opportunities for picnicking and water sports.
  • Scenic Views: Offers stunning views of the Ottawa River and its surroundings.
  • Urban Connection: Connected to numerous neighborhoods, making it easily accessible from many locations.
  • Recreational Activities: Offers opportunities for cycling, jogging, and swimming during summer months.

13. Kanata Lakes Trail System

Explore a network of trails through the heart of Ottawa's west end, with opportunities for wildlife viewing.
  • Urban Wildlife Viewing: Offers chances to see urban coyotes, rabbits, and various bird species.
  • Trail Variety: Features a variety of trails suitable for hiking, biking, or jogging.
  • Community Engagement: Maintained by community volunteers, fostering a sense of local pride.

14. Richmond Farm Forest

Hike through a beautiful forested area with opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
  • Forested Trails: Provides a peaceful, forested hiking experience.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Offers chances to see wildlife such as white-tailed deer and various bird species.
  • Birdwatching Opportunities: Ideal for birdwatching, particularly during spring and fall migrations.

15. Falls of the Ottawa River

Discover several waterfalls along the Ottawa River, with opportunities for hiking and picnicking.
  • Waterfall Viewing: Features several waterfalls cascading down the slopes.
  • Scenic Views: Offers stunning views of the Ottawa River and its surroundings.
  • Picnic Spots: Provides numerous picnic areas perfect for relaxing after a long hike.