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Open NCC

Have your say!

Respond to our survey on this year’s edition of Open NCC. The survey should take approximately five minutes to complete.

Join our archeologists near Leamy Lake Park for an archeological dig. Help us recover artifacts and learn more about the pre-contact (before the arrival of Europeans) history of the region.

This activity is organized in partnership with the Anishinàbe Odjìbikan (the archaeological field school of the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg and the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation).

About the activity

In the main parking lot, there will be an artifacts presentation and Anishinabe Algonquin demonstrations that will feature singing and drumming, interactive pictograph painting on canvas, storytelling, and crafting of birchbark baskets.

The archeological digs, however, are not wheelchair-accessible as the site is located at a 10-to-15-minute walk from the parking lot on a narrow and uneven path. While the digs are geared toward adults and children aged 10 and up, we also offer a simulated archaeological dig for families with children under 10 years old.

Map

Map of dig site and surrounding area, showing the nearest STO bus stops and parking lots for vehicles coming from Fournier Boulevard. The site can also be accessed from the Leamy Lake multi-use pathway.
Dig site on the Ottawa River waterfront in Leamy Lake Park

Hours

Drop in at any time between 10 am to 3 pm (add to calendar).

Meeting point

At the main parking lot, located at 80 Fournier Boulevard, Gatineau.

  • Car access: Free parking in the parking lot of the former Gatineau Boom (space is limited: first come, first served). Please plan a 15-to-20-minute walk to the dig site. Parking is also available at Leamy Lake Beach. Please plan a 20-to-30-minute walk to the dig site. Carpooling is suggested.
  • Cycling and pedestrian access: The site is accessible via the Voyageurs Pathway.
  • Public transit: There are bus stops near the Voyageurs Pathway that lead to the dig site. Use the STO’s travel planner to plan your route.

Good to know

Bring your own water bottle and insect repellent, and wear a hat, long pants, gloves and closed-toe shoes with good treads, as a section of the trail to the dig site includes rough terrain.