Saturday, May 27 and Sunday, May 28
Due to road closures caused by the Ottawa Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend, the NCC Weekend Bike days program will be cancelled.
Every weekend from May to October, the NCC reserves some of its parkways in Ottawa for active use. Whether you’re biking, walking, in-line skating, using a wheelchair, or pushing a stroller, this program is for you!
These car-free roads along the Ottawa River are a great way to experience the beauty of the National Capital Region in a fun, safe, and environmentally friendly way.
Schedule and locations
In 2023, the program will run from May 13 to October 9 on Saturdays, Sundays, and holiday Mondays.
Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway
Both westbound lanes of the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway, located on the south side of the Ottawa River just west of the downtown core, from Vimy Place to Carling Avenue (9 km).
- Hours: 8 am to noon*
* It can take our team up to one hour to safely clear the parkways. Access for private vehicles will be restored by 1 pm.
Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway
Both lanes of the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway, running along the south side of the Ottawa River, just east of the downtown core, between Aviation Parkway and St. Joseph Boulevard in Orléans (8 km).
- Hours: 8 am to 4 pm*
* It can take our team up to one hour to safely clear the parkways. Access for private vehicles will be restored by 5 pm.
Good to know
- The open roads are available to all active users, whether they’re on wheels or on foot. Please be respectful of others: ride at safe speeds, be predictable, and share the path.
- While you’re on the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway, take a break at Remic Rapids Park to enjoy food and drinks at the NCC Bistro.
About the program
Since 1970, the NCC has hosted Sunday Bikedays, allowing cyclists to experience the Capital’s scenic parkways car-free.
Today, NCC Weekend Bikedays provide about 17 kilometres of parkways to thousands of people who enjoy seeing the Capital Region from a different perspective and in a fun and environmentally friendly way. The program has been replicated in many other cities around the globe.
We care about making active transportation enjoyable for all, by creating spaces that are fun, accessible, safe, and environmentally friendly.
Check out our other car-free parkway programs on Queen Elizabeth Driveway and in Gatineau Park.
