Old Quarry Trail (Trail 23)
The Old Quarry Trail shows the geological history of the National Capital Region. In fall, the colourful foliage contrasts beautifully with the rock formations. With a bit of luck, you may spot white-tailed deer, painted turtles, or snapping turtles.
- Sector: Stony Swamp
- Distance: 5 km
- Starting point: P5 (get directions to P5)
- Route: P5 → Washrooms → 23A → 23C → 23D → 23E → 23G → 23H → 23D → 23C → 23A → P5
- Dogs: For conservation reasons, dogs are not permitted.
Jack Pine Trail (Trail 26)
The Jack Pine Trail introduces you to a variety of habitats that are especially striking in fall. Jack pines and colourful maple trees are a perfect backdrop when on a contemplative walk.
This trail is a central point to a larger network of trails, which gives you several hiking options in this sector.
- Sector: Stony Swamp
- Distance: 3 km
- Starting point: P9 (get directions to P9)
- Route: P9 → 26A → 26B → 26H → 26G → 26C → 26D → 26E → 26F → 26G → 26H → P9
- Dogs: For conservation reasons, dogs are not permitted.
- Another option: Extend your outing by exploring other trails, including trail 25, which leads to the Lime Kiln Trail ruins. From 26F, continue to P10 (you’ll have to cross Moodie Drive). From there, hike to the lime kiln ruins (before marker 25A).
Trail 31
Hidden behind the Nepean Sportsplex is a gateway to the Pinhey Forest in Merivale Gardens. Trail 31 winds through a mixed white pine, maple and oak tree forest, displaying spectacular fall colours. Two Trail 31 loops are part of the inclusive trails in Ottawa-Gatineau.
The Nepean Sportsplex offers easy access to most facilities, including water fountains and accessible washrooms, which you may want to use before your hike.
Greenbelt Pathway West from Black Rapids
This section of the Greenbelt Pathway West begins at Black Rapids, a picturesque spot on the Rideau River. You’ll see landscapes typical of the area, including open fields, woodlands and wetlands. This flat trail allows for a variety of activities, including cycling.
- Sector: Southern Farm and Pinhey Forest
- Distance: 8.4 km (round trip)
- Starting point: There are several free parking spaces behind St. Andrew Parish (2080 Merivale Road, Nepean)
- Route: Parking lot → Rapids → Turn around → Woodroffe Avenue → Turn around → Parking lot
- Dogs: Permitted on leash at all times
- Another option: There is also paid parking at Black Rapids (managed by Parks Canada); round trip from the Woodroffe Avenue parking lot.
Responsible and informed hiking
- Responsible outdoor recreation: Engaging responsibly in leisure activities is easier than you think. Be considerate of others and leave no trace—except your footprints.
- Shared trails: Some suggested pathways are shared by walkers, cyclists, in-line skaters, or people using an assisted mobility device. Share the path.
- Closures: The proposed routes take into account closures planned for fall 2025. However, there may be other closures. Before you head out, check our NCC closures map and always obey the signage and signage on site.
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More to see!
Want to discover more trails? Discover our lesser known routes in Ottawa-Gatineau and in Gatineau Park.
Please note that hiking is very popular in the fall, especially in Gatineau Park. For a better experience, visit the less busy areas, go on a weekday, or take the free shuttle instead of your car.