Each fall, hundreds of thousands of visitors come to Gatineau Park to admire Fall Rhapsody. The popular conservation park, a favourite among local residents and visitors — for good reason — often reaches capacity, which creates traffic jams and full parking lots in the busiest areas, especially on weekends in the south sector. This takes away some of the enjoyment of visiting the Park and puts a lot of pressure on the network, as well as the fauna and flora.
However, with a few simple changes, you can have a better experience at Gatineau Park in fall. Same colours, better experience!
Tip no. 1 – Explore lesser-known destinations
When the south sector of the Park is packed with crowds, why not explore the lesser-known areas? The areas on the Park periphery have views that are well worth the detour. Same colours, better experience.
Meech Creek Valley offers a view of beautiful farmland landscapes, including the iconic covered bridge in the Municipality of Chelsea. On Cross Loop Road, there is a historical interpretation loop with panels describing the history of settlement in the area. From parking lot P16, you can access the popular Trail 50, and P15 leads you to the lookout along Trail 72.
Well known for its beaches in summer, the Philippe Lake sector is also a destination of choice in fall. Colourful hills, with a mix of tall coniferous and deciduous trees, are reflected on the lake — Pink Lake has nothing on them! If you’re in the mood for adventure, hike to Lusk Cave or go kayaking or paddle-boarding on the lake.
Tip no. 2 – Visit popular attractions on weekdays
Pink Lake, on a beautiful fall Saturday, can feel like being at the mall right before Christmas. It’s better to go during the week, when there are fewer people at the more popular and accessible parkway locations. Same colours, better experience!
The Park is close to downtown, which makes it easy to access after school or work. Early risers will be rewarded with the peace and tranquility of the early morning sunrise. Popular locations such as Pink Lake, Mackenzie King Estate and the Champlain Lookout are accessible by various means every day of the week.
From September 23 to October 27, the parkways are open to vehicles daily, from noon to dusk, and on Wednesdays from 8 am to dusk.
Tip no. 3 – Take the bus
When traffic is heavy on the parkways and the parking lots are full, a better option is to take the bus to Gatineau Park. There are three easy and sustainable ways to visit Gatineau Park while protecting nature. Same colours, better experience!
Free NCC shuttle
Every day except Wednesday, the NCC shuttle bus takes you to popular Park locations such as Pink Lake, Mackenzie King Estate, Champlain Lookout and Camp Fortune. Beginning on October 5, the shuttle will run more frequently on the weekend. Pairs perfectly with tip no. 2!
Free Philippe Lake shuttle
The Philippe Lake shuttle, in collaboration with Transcollines, runs on weekends and holiday Mondays. It runs between Montcalm Station; the Chelsea Visitor Centre; Meech Creek Valley (P16); and Philippe Lake’s Breton Beach. Pairs perfectly with tip no.1!
Public transit
There are STO and Transcollines stops near the Park that lead to many of the trails and attractions. In addition, the Pimisi O-Train station is very close to the downtown Ottawa shuttle stop. Use their travel planners to plan your next outing.
Bonus tip – Ottawa hidden gems
There are many more ways to enjoy the fall colours. Consider other NCC attractions in Ottawa like the urban parks, bistros and taverns, the NCC River House, the Greenbelt and associated farms, and Weekend Bikedays. All of these offer a variety of fall activities for every taste.