

Dominique Jolicoeur
Content Strategist
Looking for the perfect Instagram photo? Or just curious to discover the most beautiful scenic views in the National Capital? Here are seven of the region’s most inspiring locations.
King Mountain, Gatineau Park
The King Mountain Trail in Gatineau Park leads to the top of the Eardley Escarpment, which rises 300 metres from the floor of the Ottawa Valley. On this trail, your efforts will be rewarded with 10 different viewpoints overlooking the National Capital Region.
Champlain Lookout, Gatineau Park
Champlain Lookout, also located at the top of the Eardley Escarpment, provides the most well-known and most popular view in Gatineau Park. It provides a unique view, overlooking the Ottawa Valley, at a point where the Canadian Shield meets the St. Lawrence Lowlands. Champlain Lookout is accessible by car or bike. A section of the Champlain Lookout is closed due to a wall collapse.
Remic Rapids Park
At Remic Rapids Park, located four kilometres from Parliament Hill, the beauty of the Ottawa River is particularly captivating. It continues to inspire artist John Felice Ceprano, who has created remarkable balanced rock sculptures at this location every year since 1986.
Major’s Hill Park
Located just steps from the Peace Tower, the Château Laurier and Nepean Point, Major’s Hill Park offers a magnificent view of the heart of the Capital. From this peaceful oasis, one can admire the Rideau Canal locks, Ottawa River and Parliament Buildings.
Tip from the pros: Stop at the Tavern on the Hill café, and enjoy a drink or a snack on the beautiful terrace.
Nepean Point
With a spectacular view of Parliament Hill and the heart of Canada’s Capital Region, Nepean Point is a photographer’s delight! It is also an ideal spot to watch the sunset.
Rideau Falls Park
Rideau Falls Park, located just a stone’s throw from Rideau Hall, provides a stunning view of the falls for which the park is named. It is also possible to enjoy this sight from the magnificent terrace of Tavern on the Falls, newly opened in 2018.
Rockliffe Parks and the Rockeries
Take the multi-use pathway or the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway to discover Rockcliffe Park, where you will find spectacular views of the Ottawa and Gatineau rivers.
What sites would you add to this list?