Your Guide to Gatineau Park Trails in Winter

In winter, Gatineau Park becomes a wonderland for winter sports enthusiasts. Not only does the park boast one of the largest and best maintained networks of cross-country ski trails in North America, but it is also an increasingly popular destination for snowshoeing and snow biking.

When it comes to winter in Gatineau Park, a bit of planning goes a long way to making your outing safe and fun. Not sure where to start? Just follow these five easy steps.

1. Choose an activity
2. Create your itinerary
3. Learn the trail rules
4. Gear up for success
5. Check the latest updates before you go

In winter, each trail in Gatineau Park is reserved for a specific activity – some trails are for just one type of activity, while others are shared. Permitted activities are clearly marked at the trailhead and in some places, staff are on hand to answer questions or guide you to the right trail for your activity. There are:

• Over 200 km of cross-country ski trails
• Over 90 km of snowshoe trails
• Over 60 km of snow biking trails
• 13 km of winter hiking trails (where dogs on a leash are also allowed!)

New to winter sports? No need to feel intimidated! There are trails for all skill levels in Gatineau Park. And if you follow our preparation tips, you might just find a new winter passion.

If you’re looking for more hiking trails, the NCC and its partners offer other trails across the Ottawa-Gatineau region.

Once you’ve chosen your winter activity, here are some things to consider:

• Day pass required: Skiing, snowshoeing and snow biking trails require a day pass or seasonal pass. Buy your pass online or directly at the trailhead.
• Trail difficulty vs. skill level: Choose trails with a difficulty rating that matches your skill level. If you’re unsure, start with easier, shorter trails.
• Distance vs. time available: Choose trails you can do in the amount of time that you have (and don’t forget to leave a bit of a buffer to stop for water, a snack and photos).
• Starting point: If you don’t have a car, you can reach many trailheads by public transit. On nice winter days and on weekends, parking lots in popular areas fill up quickly. So, it’s important to always have a plan B...
• Plan B: Gatineau Park is a very popular destination, and trail and weather conditions can change quickly. Be flexible and plan for a few backup options in case your plan A doesn’t work out.

Create your perfect itinerary in just a few clicks.

Our interactive maps provide an overview of all the trails available for your activity, with details about trail length, difficulty and conditions. They also feature key points of interest, parking lots and nearby bus stops (zoom in to see details).

• Cross-country skiing Interactive Map
• Snowshoeing Interactive Map
• Snow Biking Interactive Map
• Winter Hiking Interactive Map

If you need help, the information officers at the Gatineau Park Visitor Centre and Relais plein air are always happy to recommend a route for you. Drop in or give us a call at 819-827-2020 or 1-866-456-3016 (toll-free).

Now that your winter plans are set, let’s talk trail rules. These rules are meant to keep everyone safe, to protect nature and to make sure everyone can enjoy their time in Gatineau Park.

Winter Trail Etiquette in Gatineau Park

Gatineau Park is a conservation area that is home to many plant and animal species at risk. Your actions affect them! Please stay on the official, marked trails dedicated to your activity.

Here is what you’ll need for a fun and safe winter outing.

1. Day or season pass: There is a fee to access Gatineau Park’s cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and winter biking trails. Buy your pass online, at the Visitor Centre or Relais Plein Air, or at the trailhead (exact cash only). Wear it proudly!
2. Winter trail map: Cellphone coverage in Gatineau Park can be spotty. Carry a paper map of the trails or use our georeferenced map on your phone to track your position, even when there’s no cellphone signal reception.
3. Weather-appropriate clothing and sun protection: Wear layers and pack extra clothing. Sunscreen, lip balm with SPF and sunglasses are recommended on a sunny day, even in winter.
4. Water and food: There are no drinking water stations on the trails, and snacks will keep your energy up during your outing (and maybe your motivation, too!).
5. Headlamp, whistle and an emergency thermal blanket: Winter sports come with risks and the unexpected can happen quickly. In vast areas like Gatineau Park, help might take time to get to your location. Always carry safety essentials with you, just in case.

If you don’t own gear, no worries! You can rent equipment near Gatineau Park.

Before heading out, check:

• trail conditions on the interactive map. If the trails you had planned on using are in bad shape or closed, you’ll be happy that you had a plan B;
• the weather forecast and time of sunset (dusk), and choose the right clothing for your activity.

Stay connected

If you aren’t doing so already, follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter.

You will be among the first to know about our seasonal activities and get tips on how to make the most of your visit, year-round. We also share information about the unique nature of Gatineau Park and our efforts tp protect the park.