Gatineau Park is a stunning nature reserve located just outside Ottawa’s city centre. Historic relics and the picturesque environment make this park a popular destination year-round.
Gatineau Park is comprised of 361 square kilometres (139 square miles) of forests and lakes. Humans have used this park for more than 8,000 years, including settlers and industrialists in the 19th century.
Explore 165 kilometres (103 miles) of scenic hiking tracks and bike paths in the summer under the shade of leafy maple and cedar trees. Appreciate the park’s flora and fauna at the Eardley Escarpment, where more than half the park’s endangered plants and animal species coexist. Take in exceptional views of Ottawa River Valley from King Mountain. Go underground to visit the geological wonder of Lusk Cave, marble tunnels that date back thousands of years.
Visit the Mackenzie King Estate to see the summer home of William Lyon Mackenzie King, Canada’s 10th prime minister. The estate is a snapshot of Victorian-era Canada, featuring heritage gardens and historic cottages. See the former prime minister’s collection of ruins, including stones from England’s Westminster Palace.
Hire a canoe and a tent from the city and camp by one of three lakes in the park, including La Pêche, Taylor Lake and Philippe Lake. There are beaches and great swimming spots. Try fishing or take a nature walk. Spot otters and beavers and be on the lookout for the rare Blanding’s turtle. Black bears, white-tailed deer, raccoons, marten and wolves also roam the park, so always be on guard and check with rangers about safety. Bring a pair of binoculars to go bird watching.
Gatineau Park is lively in the winter months. Hire equipment in town and go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing along one of the largest multipurpose trail networks in North America. Come for a daytrip or spend a night in a cabin or special winter tent.
Call the Gatineau Park office to find out about opening hours, which vary depending on the season. Ask about ski passes in winter.
Gatineau Park is located northwest of the city centre, a 15-minute drive from Parliament Hill. Pay to park in the summer but park for free in winter.