Each fall, hundreds of thousands of people get the same idea: seeing the fall rhapsody in Gatineau Park. Completely understandable, as the striking landscapes are spectacular!
Visiting Gatineau Park in the fall can be magical. Or, frustrating, depending on where and when you go.
To help you plan, here are five great options for a magical fall hike!
Cross Loop Road in Meech Creek Valley
A tranquil walk amongst heritage sites and agricultural landscapes
Nestled between the villages of Chelsea and Wakefield, Meech Creek Valley in Gatineau Park may not be as busy, but is no less charming. This quiet rural area is rich in history and colour, especially with its iconic covered bridge!
- Distance: 5.6 km (round trip on a gravel path)
- Route information: Wide gravel path with gentle slopes
- Starting point: P16
- Dogs: Permitted on leash from mid-April to end of November
- Another option: Walk the Trail 50 (easy) to the Healey Shelter, then go back on Trail 70 (11 km, very difficult).
Detailed itinerary for Cross Loop Road in Meech Creek Valley
Trail 72 to the Carman Lake lookout
A breathtaking view in a quiet setting
Still in Meech Creek Valley, this route leads you to the Carman Lake lookout. You’ll have an unobstructed view of the colourful hills, but it will be less crowded than the more popular areas. The more technical Trail 72 is used for hiking and mountain biking.
- Distance: 6 km (round trip)
- Route information: Trail 72 (very difficult) is narrow with rocky and root-covered patches, as well as some steep climbs.
- Starting point: P15
- Dogs: Permitted on leash from mid-April to end of November
- Another option: After the lookout, take the Trail 72 loop to return (8 km).
Philippe Lake and Lusk Cave Trails
An original adventure
Located near Philippe Lake, Lusk Cave is a unique geological phenomenon that is accessible on foot. The route that leads to it runs along a lake reflecting the colourful hills. You can explore the cave on foot, but be careful: it’s dark and the water levels (cold, especially in fall) can be as high as a metre or more. Make sure you have the proper equipment, including closed-toe shoes or water shoes, a helmet and a headlamp.
From the Parent Beach parking lot, follow the Trans Canada Trail / Trail 50 (easy) through a vibrantly coloured, old growth forest, to the end of Philippe Lake, then Lusk Cave Trail (73, very difficult and hilly) to the cave. Head back by following Trail 73 loop the other way, and stop at the Philippe Lake Day Shelter or at the Parent Beach picnic area at the end of your hike.
- Distance: 9 km (loop)
- Level of difficulty: Trail 73 is narrow and hilly, with rocks and tree roots, while Trail 50 is wide and mostly flat. There are stairs near the cave on Trail 73.
- Starting point: Parent Beach parking lot
- Dogs: Permitted on leash on the trail from mid-April to end of November; not permitted at the beach, in day shelters or in picnic areas
Waterfall and Lauriault trails
Connect with nature just outside the city
This route winds through a dense and colourful forest, past Lauriault Falls (also called the Bridal Veil Falls). The falls, although not as active in autumn, are still very scenic. This is a serene route that also offers superb views. It’s perfect for a family outing or a contemplative stroll.
- Distance: 3 km (loop)
- Level of difficulty: The trail is quite wide, moderately hilly, with rocky and root-covered sections.
- Starting point: Lauriault Trail (accessible every day from noon to 30 minutes after dusk and on Wednesdays from 8 am)
- Shuttle: The Gatineau Park shuttle stops at Lauriault/Mulvihill daily except Wednesday.
- Dogs: Permitted on leash at all times
- Pro tip: Buy food at a shop in Old Chelsea and enjoy a picnic at the Lauriault Trail Lookout.
Scenic parkways and trails via the shuttle
Make the most of popular areas
To visit 8 well known destinations near the parkways, like Pink Lake or Champlain Lookout, take the free Gatineau Park shuttle and let the Park drive you! You can hop on and hop off at any stop, and make the most of your visit without having to worry about traffic and parking.
On weekdays except Wednesdays, shuttles run between Montcalm station in Gatineau and the Visitor Centre in Chelsea. On weekends and holiday Mondays, service runs between Pindigen Park in downtown Ottawa (across from the Canadian War Museum) and the Visitor Centre in Chelsea.
The shuttle is very popular and seating is first-come, first served. Consider going on a weekday to fully enjoy the views and avoid the longer lineups. A little patience and planning go a long way!
Please note:
- The free NCC shuttle operates daily except Wednesday.
- Various combinations of stops are possible but be sure to check the schedule so you don't miss your ride back.
- Foldable strollers are allowed on the bus.
- Buses are equipped with a bike rack.
Getting around Gatineau Park trails
The Gatineau Park trail map is available for free via PDF. Download it before heading out!
Elsewhere, outside of the park
While it’s true that Gatineau Park is impressive and, with just a little planning, you can experience an exciting fall adventure, did you know that the fall colours are just as brilliant in other Capital destinations?
The Greenbelt and Ottawa-Gatineau green spaces also offer incredible sights, often minus the crowds. So, will you venture outside of Gatineau Park this fall?
