In fall, the National Capital Region shows off its many colours. All over the Ottawa-Gatineau region, stunning views await—well beyond Gatineau Park!
This season, discover a variety of landscapes and breathtaking sights as you walk along paved city pathways or through natural wooded trails.
These five routes are ideal for admiring the fall colours:
Commissioners Park, Dow’s Lake and surrounding area
Commissioners Park, at Dow’s Lake, is well known for its spring tulips. But, come fall, flamboyant foliage steals the show. The park’s mature trees provide a striking spectacle, which continues as you make your way to the Experimental Farm and the Dominion Arboretum.
Paid parking (855 Carling Avenue), food and beverage services and washrooms are available along the route.
- Distance: 4.7 km
- Route: Interactive map for Commissioners Park at Dow’s Lake and surrounding area
- Level of difficulty: Easy
- Dogs: Permitted on leash
Remic Rapids and Bate Island
Immerse yourself in fall’s vibrant hues by walking along the Ottawa River from Remic Rapids Park to Bate Island. This pathway provides a spectacular display of coloured foliage, balanced rock sculptures by artist John Felice Ceprano, and peaceful reflections on the river. Cross the Champlain Bridge to get to Bate Island for a picnic and then go back the way you came.
Free parking, food and beverage services (NCC Bistro and Tavern on the Island) and washrooms are available along the route.
- Distance: 5.1 km
- Route: Interactive map of Remic Rapids and Bate Island
- Level of difficulty: Easy
- Dogs: Permitted on leash
The Rockeries and the Ottawa River
This route, in Ottawa’s east end, will take you along the Ottawa River shoreline, where you’ll see vibrantly coloured leaves reflected in the water. Walk by the NCC River House and explore the Rockeries, a park featuring scattered ruins.
Free parking, food and beverage services (Café & Bistro at the NCC River House) and washrooms are available along the route.
- Distance: 2.8 km
- Route: Interactive map of the Rockeries and Ottawa River pathway
- Level of difficulty: Easy
- Dogs: Permitted on leash
Hog’s Back Park and Falls
In fall, a dazzling display of fall leaf colours creates an eye-catching backdrop to Hog’s Back Falls. This shorter route allows you to peacefully contemplate nature on a walk through wooded trails, punctuated only by the sound of rushing water.
Free parking, food and beverage services (Hog’s Back Grill and Bistro) and washrooms are available along the route.
- Distance: 1.4 km
- Route: Interactive map of Hog’s Back Park trail and falls
- Level of difficulty: Easy
- Dogs: Permitted on leash
Leamy Lake Park
Located near downtown Gatineau, scenic Leamy Lake Park is an ideal setting for a fall walk. Trees line the pathway, providing a burst of colour. The park features convenient facilities: a playground, sheltered and unsheltered picnic tables, and barbecue pits.
Free parking and washrooms are available along the route.
- Distance: 2.4 km
- Route: Interactive map of Leamy Lake route
- Level of difficulty: Easy
- Dogs: Permitted on leash on the trail; not permitted at the beach
Responsible and informed hiking
- Share the path: Most of the pathways in the urban areas are shared by walkers, cyclists, in-line skaters, or people using an assisted mobility device. Share the path.
- Responsible outdoor recreation: Engaging responsibly in leisure activities is easier than you think. Be considerate of others and leave no trace—except your footprints.
- Public transportation: Most of the routes can be accessed by public transit. Visit the STO or OC Transpo websites to plan your trip.
More places to see!
Want to discover more trails? View our interactive map or discover lesser known routes in the Greenbelt and in Gatineau Park.
Please note that hiking is very popular in the fall, especially in Gatineau Park. For a better experience, visit less busy areas, go on weekdays or take the free shuttle instead of your car.
