Author: Emily Stephens, Communications
Did you know that there are over 100 km of multi-use winter trails in Ottawa? These trails are community-maintained entirely by volunteers, and access is free.
Urban multi-use trails make winter more fun and accessible in the National Capital Region. Some are right along the Ottawa River or the Rideau River, offering gorgeous waterfront views. Other trails allow you to wander through wooded areas, providing a perfect escape from busy city streets. Each winter trail has something unique to offer. Follow along to learn more about their must-see features!
Kìchì Sìbì Winter Trail
The 18 km Kichi Sibi, one of the oldest community winter trails in Ottawa, stretches along the Ottawa River from Westboro Beach to the Portage Bridge.
Must-see attractions
Snow bears: Keep an eye out for snow bears hidden amongst or on the trees. These are not real bears. They are made by “Bear Lady” Maggie Glossop when the snow is soft and sticky.
Remic Rapids Bistro: The NCC Bistro at Remic Rapids Park is the perfect spot to stop and refuel while enjoying this winter trail. Sip on a hot chocolate or coffee and take in the incredible panoramic views of the Ottawa River.
Equipment rentals: Don’t have the gear or would like to try out something out? As a sponsor of the trail, Fresh Air Experience offers fat bike, snowshoe and ski rentals directly beside the trail (on weekends only, weather permitting).
Ottawa West Winter Trail
The Ottawa West Winter Trail is in the western part of the Greenbelt and is convenient for people living in Kanata or Nepean. This 14 km trail is part of the Shirleys Bay sector. It includes part of the Greenbelt Pathway West, as well as two side loops (Watts Creek Pathway and Trail 12 loop).
Must-see attractions
Christmas Tree Loop: Each year, community members donate their Christmas trees to this winter trail. Volunteers then create a heartwarming Christmas tree loop for all to enjoy. Take an evening walk to enjoy the twinkling lights.
Greenbelt Riverdown Trail: Just north of the Ottawa River, you can enjoy the peacefulness of a snowy day amongst the trees in this quiet area on the Ottawa West Winter Trail.
Britannia Winter Trail
This trail is 16 km long and is located near the Kichi Zībī Mīkan, extending from Andrew Haydon Park to Woodroffe Avenue.
Must-see attractions
Belltown Ice Sorceress: Take a walk, ski or bike ride on the wild side, and take in the ice creations along the Britannia Winter Trail. The Belltown Ice Sorceress, whose identity remains secret, creates mysterious and magical snow globes that line the winter trail.
Britannia Beach Views: Winter views from Britannia Beach are truly extraordinary. Head out for a late afternoon ski or walk to catch the sun setting over the Ottawa River. On a windy day, you might spot kite surfers, also known as snowkiters, on the Ottawa River.
Rideau Winter Trail
On the eastern side of the Rideau River, the Rideau Winter Trail takes visitors 12 km from North River Road to Bank Street. This Ottawa winter trail is convenient for people living in Vanier, Old Ottawa South, Alta Vista, the Glebe and downtown Ottawa.
Must-see attractions
Steps from the LRT: When we say that the Rideau Winter Trail is steps from the Hurdman LRT station, this is no exaggeration. Simply get off the train, strap on your gear and head off for a fun winter adventure.
Refuel at The Bridge Public House: After your winter excursion, stop for a snack at The Bridge Public House, located in the Rideau Sports Centre. It has a great selection of food and drinks, and a great view of the Rideau River at the Adawe Crossing.
Ski Heritage East Winter Trail
This 40 km trail in the east end of Ottawa runs along the Ottawa River from the Aviation Museum to Tweddle Road. Community volunteers also maintain the Wilsondale Trails in Cumberland (classic cross-country skiing only).
Must-see attractions
NCC River House: The NCC River House is a century-old heritage building that features an outdoor patio with panoramic views of the Ottawa River. Grab a snack at the Bytown Catering kiosk or bring your own après-ski snack to enjoy on one of the red Adirondack chairs.
Birdwatching paradise: If you enjoy birdwatching, you will appreciate this forested loop along the Ski Heritage East Winter Trail. Simply head east of the Aviation Museum, where you will find a stretch of trail that passes through a beautifully forested area. Birds love these trees and this loop attracts bird watchers from across the region.
Orleans Nordic Ski Club winter trails
The Orleans Nordic Ski Club has been grooming winter trails (classic cross-country skiing only) in the Greenbelt since the early 1990s. This includes:
- a section of the Greenbelt Pathway and trails 61 and 63 (Green's Creek)
- Trail 51, west of Anderson Road (Mer Bleue)
- Trail 45 (Pine Grove)
Must-see attractions
Mer Bleue: Located in the southeastern sector of the Greenbelt, the 3,500-hectare Mer Bleue is a habitat for many species of rare plants, birds and other wildlife.
Winter sunrises and sunsets: The Green’s Creek sector of the Greenbelt is a prime location to see a striking sunrise or sunset over the Ottawa River. Plan your winter adventure around these times of day and be prepared to take some Insta-worthy shots.
Plan your outing on the Ottawa winter trails
Choosing which trail to visit is the hardest part! After you’ve made your decision, use the following tips to help plan your outing.
First, a note on winter trail etiquette. Community winter trails require a lot of work and care throughout winter and year-round. Please remember to share the path and follow winter trail etiquette. This includes walking your dog on a leash and not walking on ski tracks or blocking the path.
What to bring
- Weather-appropriate clothing and sun protection: Wear layers and pack extra clothing; you’ll be glad you did. Even in winter, sunscreen, sunglasses and lip balm with SPF are recommended.
- Water and food: Chances are, you’ll work up an appetite when out on your adventure.
- Headlamp: The sun can set earlier than you expect in winter, so pack a headlamp just in case. If you are heading out to watch the sunset, a headlamp for your way back is a good idea.
Transit and parking options
Many of the community winter trails are accessible by public transit or offer parking spots if you drive. The groomed multi-use winter trail network breaks transit and parking options down for each winter trail.
Ottawa Urban Winter Trails Alliance webpages:
The NCC is a proud partner and financial contributor to the community winter trails.
