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Our top ideas for winter activities in Ottawa–Gatineau

With our top suggestions for hiking, snowshoeing, skating, skiing and many other activities to enjoy
Discover the groomed multi-use winter trail network.
Go for a 5.5-km winter hike at Green’s Creek.
There are over 100 km of trails for shared winter recreational activities such as cross-country skiing
Go for a walk in a winter wonderland.

Learning to love the Canadian winter: Immersion for new Canadians

However, winter is a lot more than bitter cold, blizzards and freezing rain.
This activity also presents opportunities to: to introduce newcomers to Canada to the Park and its
conservation mandate; to explore many activities that can be enjoyed in every season; to talk about
— Le Anh, student Winter carnival Gatineau Park’s winter carnival takes place over two afternoons
This activity is organized in partnership with Parks Canada.

Animals in winter

Have you always wondered what animals do in winter? Do you like to be active in winter?
This activity is made for you!
On a course of about 3 km, you will discover how the animals of Gatineau Park adapt to the winter season
The funds raised will help support Friends of Gatineau Park activities.
Refund requests must be received at least 48 hours before the activity.

Our best gift ideas

This year, give an activity in nature instead of a physical gift.
How can you give an activity as a gift? It’s simple, really!
In Gatineau–Ottawa, there’s no shortage of winter activities.
Check out the articles below and give free rein to your imagination. 35 ideas for winter activities
in Gatineau-Ottawa Ottawa–Gatineau: Walking in a winter wonderland Your Guide to Winter Outings on

A Year in the Life of a Nature Interpreter

Guided activities, programs and workshops are cancelled until further notice.
Watching them become more at ease with the Canadian winter is one of the most rewarding aspects of my
on the possibility of appreciating the outdoors in winter.
Gatineau Park hosts a winter carnival.
These two afternoons spent outdoors was to encourage new Canadians to experience the joys of winter (

Report on Activities – January 2021

Here are the highlights presented in my Report on Activities.
using NCC assets, including working with our community partners to expand our winter trail network by
To encourage everyone to get active, in partnership with Sportstats and Virtual Run Canada, the NCC has
launched two Winter Capital Challenges — the Winter Capital Trail Network Challenge and the Winter Capital
Major Projects Update: Rehabilitation of the Rideau Canal lighting system begins this summer Report on Activities

Gatineau Park

second-most visited park in Canada, and a destination for outdoor enthusiasts to engage in recreational activities
Winter
activities
Winter
Winter

Gatineau Park’s in-between season

The transition between the highly popular Fall Rhapsody and the winter season gives the Park’s wildlife
By far one of the most popular activities
Gatineau Park: list of hiking trails (spring to fall) Gatineau Park: list of hiking trails (winter)
For mountain bikers, it is still possible to use the trails for this activity until the end of November
Are you a true fan of winter?

The Capital Pathway Snow Heroes

Over 100 kilometres of trails in Ottawa are groomed for shared winter recreational activities.
Needless to say, winters keep me busy!
So far, pushing my limits and staying active in my community has made retirement very rewarding!
For the last two years, by the time spring called a halt to my bear-making activities, there were 18
Check out our list of community winter trails.

Life Below Zero

How Plants Weather the Winter In winter, it’s not uncommon to see a nature interpreter leading a group
Beavers remain active throughout the winter. They build a dam to raise the water level.
what winter has to offer.
some winter hiking.
that you have all the information you need to stay safe and that you’re on the right trail for your activity

Report on Activities - April 2020

Here are the highlights presented in my Report on Activities.
Winter Trails Skiers on the SJAM Winter Trail The NCC is now partnered with six volunteer-driven community
Macdonald Winter Trail, in west Ottawa, Ski Heritage East, in the east end, and now the Britannia Winter
Trail and the Rideau Winter Trail.
– January 2023 Renaming of Nepean Point: Kìwekì Point Report on Activities – October 2022

Report On Activities - January 2018

Here are some of the highlights presented in my Report on Activities.
Macdonald Winter Trail began on December 12.
More Lab sessions are planned for the winter and spring.
Major Projects Update: Rehabilitation of the Rideau Canal lighting system begins this summer Report on Activities
– January 2023 Renaming of Nepean Point: Kìwekì Point Report on Activities – October 2022

Greenbelt

Summer activities
Self-guided tours and activities
Winter
activities
interested in Black Bear Safety in Ottawa-Gatineau Ticks: How to enjoy the outdoors safely Winter

Report on Activities - January 2019

Here are some of the highlights presented in my Report on Activities.
It is another record-breaking season for winter pass sales in Gatineau Park.
This winter there are 64 trail patrollers, a new record.
Major Projects Update: Rehabilitation of the Rideau Canal lighting system begins this summer Report on Activities
– January 2023 Renaming of Nepean Point: Kìwekì Point Report on Activities – October 2022

Report on Activities - January 2020

Here are some of the highlights presented in my Report on Activities.
They will be neutralized this winter.
Rideau Hall Rideau Hall ice rink and Winter Pavilion The Rideau Hall ice rink and Winter Pavilion opened
Work will resume in spring following the tendering for the remaining elements over the winter.
– January 2023 Renaming of Nepean Point: Kìwekì Point Report on Activities – October 2022

NCC Volunteers: Portraits of passion and generosity

By taking part in patrolling, interpretation activities, trail maintenance or gardening, our volunteers
In her native Columbia — Catalina came to Canada 20 years ago — winters are quite different.
She realized very quickly that she had to learn to like winter, not just endure it.
Today, she devours the Canadian winter! “Patrolling really changed my life.
It helped me appreciate winter, which is way too short, for my liking!

Your Guide to Winter Outings on Gatineau Park Trails

Some trails are for only one type of activity, and others are shared.
Choose an activity, and limit your search to the trails designed for that activity.
Remember that the sun sets early in the winter, so choose a route you can do in the amount of time that
During nice winter days, the parking lots fill up quickly: always have a Plan B!
In winter, animals need all their energy to survive.

Report on Activities – January 2022

Champlain Parkway in Gatineau Park In winter
that the house is now ready for our new ‘Capital Culture Lives Here’ initiative, which begins this winter
enthusiasts will once again be able to ski and snowshoe this LeBreton loop that connects to the Kichi Sibi Winter
Speaking of Gatineau Park, sales of winter-season passes broke another record in December as the public
– January 2023 Renaming of Nepean Point: Kìwekì Point Report on Activities – October 2022

Ottawa–Gatineau: Walking in a winter wonderland

Kichi Sibi Winter Trail This trail is located along the Ottawa River.
Rideau Winter Trail This trail weaves through Riverain Park.
There are two other community-groomed winter trails in the Ottawa area: the Ottawa West Winter Trail
Its proximity to residential areas makes it a choice destination for safe outings this winter.
enjoy the outdoors safely Spring Awakening: Biologists on a Mission to Protect Wildlife Report on Activities

Land use plan for Ruisseau de la Brasserie (Brewery Creek)

Winter
Hold stakeholder consultations Fall 2022 Develop potential land use concepts (completed) Winter
The area hosted industrial activities in the 1950s and 1960s, including the pulp and paper industry,
These activities resulted in lasting soil and groundwater contamination, which now requires remediation

Report on Activities - April 2022

In Gatineau Park, we sold over 16,000 winter season passes and 1500 ready-to-camp overnight stays.
We also added over eight kilometers of trails for snowshoeing and winter biking.
Nature interpreters, hired through the Friends of Gatineau Park, offered roving interpretation on many winter
Victoria Island: Remediation activities will soon restart including site grading and infrastructure removal
We encourage visitors and residents to make use of public transit or active modes of transportation.

Report on Activities - April 2019

Here are some of the highlights presented in my Report on Activities.
Winter Carnival The NCC organized a Winter Carnival in February in Gatineau Park to help newcomers
to Canada celebrate their first Canadian winter.
Major Projects Update: Rehabilitation of the Rideau Canal lighting system begins this summer Report on Activities
– January 2023 Renaming of Nepean Point: Kìwekì Point Report on Activities – October 2022

Stargazing in winter

an introduction to astronomy by taking part in an online presentation about what we can see in the winter
is presented by Stephan Paape, an amateur astronomer for nearly 20 years, who enjoys public outreach activities
This Friends of Gatineau Park activity
The funds raised will help support Friends of Gatineau Park activities.
For more information about the activity

Report on Activities – April 2023

Here are the highlights presented in my Report on Activities.
We also hosted a new event, titled, “Winter in the Park 101”.
Gatineau Park was, once again, a very popular winter destination.
We sold more than 15,000 winter season passes and over 1,300 winter night accommodations.
Sir George-Étienne Cartier Park Plan: This winter, we concluded a second round of consultations on the

Animal Tracking on Snowshoes

As you travel along Trail 60, you’ll discover what animals do to survive the winter.
This activity is free, and snowshoes are provided. Spaces are limited.
Please note: This activity is for participants at least 8 years of age.
Groups can contact the Friends of Gatineau Park for a tailor-made, guided activity: info@friendsofgatineaupark.com

Snowshoe under the stars

Hiking in the moonlight, you will discover how animals survive winter!
As this is considered a light aerobic activity and the weather is usually colder in the evenings, please
This activity is for everyone (minimum age: 8 years old). No snowshoeing experience necessary.
Please arrive 5 minutes before the start of the activity for processing.
Refund requests must be received at least 48 hours before the activity.* *Should the Friends of Gatineau

Report On Activities - June 2018

Here are some of the highlights presented in my Report on Activities.
affected by the emerald ash borer In response to damage caused by the Emerald Ash Borer, over the winter
Greenbelt Visitor and Economic Impact Study About 350,000 people visited during the winter season,
Major Projects Update: Rehabilitation of the Rideau Canal lighting system begins this summer Report on Activities
– January 2023 Renaming of Nepean Point: Kìwekì Point Report on Activities – October 2022

NCC’s efforts to open the Rideau Canal Skateway come to an end

and operations for several years, and this year taught us a great deal about the effects of milder winters
We already look forward to welcoming visitors to the world’s largest skating rink next winter.
In the meantime, winter isn’t over!
Discover the many other activities Canada’s #Wintercapital has to offer.

Philippe Lake

During the winter, it is open from Highway 366 to parking lot P20 (Breton Beach).
Winter trails: In winter, cross-country skiers and snowshoers have access to a vast network of trails
A daily pass or season pass is required to access these winter trails.
In winter, the shelter is accessible on skis via Trail 55 and snowshoes via Trail 74.
may also be interested in Ticks: How to enjoy the outdoors safely NCC announces 2023 active

Nature know-how: Ready to enjoy the great outdoors?

Forest wilderness survival is just one of the many activities this group organizes throughout the year
Bring along the winter trail map (available as a hardcopy available at the Visitor Centre ($), on your
Consider the weather The sun sets early in winter and the temperature can plunge quickly.
Cold-weather dangers In winter, the risks of cold weather are very real.
Donations help fund scientific research, recruit volunteers and organize other educational activities

Leamy Lake Park

true urban oasis, this park is an excellent spot for a day trip or for outdoor sports and recreational activities
Mid-May to winter closure, 5 am to 10 pm.
Beach and recreational activities
In winter, it also rents snowshoes and cross-country skis.

A host of NCC projects set to entice Ottawans to get some fresh air

We’ll also be expanding space for people along the canal, in both winter and summer, starting with daytime
The summer season will see new activities not just near the river, but also on it.
the Flats, including an area near Pimisi Station that will provide future opportunities for outdoor activation
In the meantime, this pathway will be added to the Kitchi Sibi Winter Trail, so users of the trail will
despite the current pandemic challenges, we are starting 2022 with an ever-expanding network of groomed winter

The art of maintaining Gatineau Park’s ski trail network

Benjamin Hiard Program Officer, Outdoor Activities
The many seasons of winter
Early winter: Laying the foundations of a good season Before the groomers
early as the first snowfall, it’s important that people stay on the trails designed for their specific activity
Still early winter: Let the grooming begin!

Report on Activities - November 2019

Here are some of the highlights presented in my Report on Activities.
Gatineau Park It was another record-setting summer for camping in Gatineau Park, and winter seasonal
retaining wall that failed earlier this year will be rebuilt, with design work being carried out over the winter
Major Projects Update: Rehabilitation of the Rideau Canal lighting system begins this summer Report on Activities
– January 2023 Renaming of Nepean Point: Kìwekì Point Report on Activities – October 2022

Report on Activities - September 2019

Here are some of the highlights presented in my Report on Activities.
It was closed on Sept. 15 and work is expected to be completed over the winter in advance of the 2020
began a 2-year pilot project partnering with local entrepreneurs to create a new and innovative way to activate
During the fall and winter the NCC will continue to remove dead ash trees, mostly in the Greenbelt, and
– January 2023 Renaming of Nepean Point: Kìwekì Point Report on Activities – October 2022

Mackenzie King Estate

In winter, it’s the starting point for winter hiking, cross-county skiing and snowshoeing.
Summer activities
adventures Mackenzie King Estate activity

Pink Lake

In winter, the parkway becomes a cross-country ski trail, and Pink Lake Trail is closed.
Winter: How to get to the lookout (trail closed)On cross-country skis: Start at parking lot P6 (Mackenzie
It is closed during the winter.
may also be interested in Ticks: How to enjoy the outdoors safely NCC announces 2023 active

Connecting Community to the Land

By winter, we had 225 families who were signed up for our community-supported agriculture (CSA) program
We’re offering a fall and early winter CSA starting in November.
In August, we held wellness month, where we hosted a variety of activities throughout each week of the
Winter Visitors to the National Capital Greenbelt NCC Takes Aim at Climate Change Impacts

How to coexist with coyotes in the National Capital Region

This is especially true in the early mornings and evenings, and in winter.
Coyotes will be more protective of their dens during mating and pupping seasons, which extend from winter
may also be interested in Ticks: How to enjoy the outdoors safely NCC announces 2023 active
use program Spring Awakening: Biologists on a Mission to Protect Wildlife Report on Activities – January

Dogs on Gatineau Park Trails

four trails: ⛔ Pink Lake Trail ⛔ Luskville Falls Trail ⛔ King Mountain Trail ⛔ Equestrian Trail Winter
dog walking Winter activities in the Park include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, fat biking and

Report on Activities - April 2018

Here are some of the highlights presented in my Report on Activities.
This winter the Skateway had 967,984 visitors, about 27,685 per day.
Major Projects Update: Rehabilitation of the Rideau Canal lighting system begins this summer Report on Activities
– January 2023 Renaming of Nepean Point: Kìwekì Point Report on Activities – October 2022

Spring Awakening: Biologists on a Mission to Protect Wildlife

Animals that hibernate, such as bats and frogs, leave their winter sleeps.
common loon, the peregrine falcon and the meadowlark are bird species that can be sensitive to human activity
We also encourage responsible use of the trails through awareness activities.
wildlife inventories: Join the Gatineau Park Citizen Science program and participate in monitoring activities

Report on Activities – October 2020

Here are the highlights presented in my Report on Activities.
projects closing NCC parkways on both sides of the river to vehicular traffic to create more room for active
River Pavilion — the former Old New Edinburgh Club — continues and is expected to be completed in late winter
Major Projects Update: Rehabilitation of the Rideau Canal lighting system begins this summer Report on Activities

Choose your camping experience in Gatineau Park

Classic campsites put you in the perfect location to explore activities like mountain biking, hiking,
Lake campground: First steps toward modern and accessible facilities Learning to love the Canadian winter
: Immersion for new Canadians An overnight in the Park: A different way to enjoy winter

Enhancing Canada’s Capital Pathway Network: More Resilient, Connected and Durable

of navigation and drop-off for Para Transpo and paratransit services supporting a diverse range of active
winter uses.
As the public’s interest in active and sustainable mobility continues to increase, the NCC remains committed

Portrait of a volunteer in Gatineau Park

Daniel Chamberlain Daniel Chamberlain joined our team as a patroller on the snow biking trails in winter
with the opportunity to meet and socialize with community-minded folks who enjoy the same nature-based activities
create lifelong friendships built on shared interests that will encourage me to remain continuously active
play an important role in communicating valuable information about Gatineau Park’s mandate and its activities
You may also be interested in Ticks: How to enjoy the outdoors safely NCC announces 2023 active

Tackling Climate Change on the Rideau Canal Skateway

Ottawa is one of the coldest capitals in the world, and we really try to make the best of our long winters
But, as winters get warmer and wetter, skating seasons shorten and ice quality decreases.
enjoy the outdoors safely Spring Awakening: Biologists on a Mission to Protect Wildlife Report on Activities

NCC to rename Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway

NEXT STEPS Winter 2023: Indigenous engagement on naming suggestions and Advisory Committee on Toponymy
Spring 2023: Public engagement activities, Indigenous engagement and selection of new name.

Board of Directors Meeting

Report on Activities - April 2020 Here are the highlights presented by NCC CEO Tobi Nussbaum in his report
on activities.
Next steps: May 2020: Design competition launch Fall/winter 2021: Presentation of design concepts to
the NCC’s Advisory Committee on Planning, Design and Realty Winter 2021: Selection of winning design
Winter 2021: NCC Board approval of winning design Fall 2021: Detailed design development TriBro

Stories of Our Past

To get to school, I would walk on the pathway along the canal, or skate on the canal in the winter.
Parks were a focal point of social activities, and Rockcliffe Park was no exception.
In the winter, skiing was a popular activity and, in 1910, a ski jump was built in the park.
Today, the park is still used for social gatherings and activities.

Report on Activities - September 2017

Here are some of the highlights presented in my Report on Activities.
visitors have experienced this signature NCC initiative marking Canada 150 since the opening of the Winter
Archaeology Month Once again, NCC activities attracted a significant number of volunteers to take part
Major Projects Update: Rehabilitation of the Rideau Canal lighting system begins this summer Report on Activities
– January 2023 Renaming of Nepean Point: Kìwekì Point Report on Activities – October 2022

Virtual public Board of Directors meeting

Report on Activities – October 2020
navigation and drop-off easier for Para-Transpo and Paratransit services; supporting a diverse range of active
winter activities.
remediation of contaminated soil, creation of parks and public spaces, and support for transit use and active

2022 Annual Public Meeting Summary Report

Theme: Gatineau Park active use program Question 1 • What will the Gatineau Park active use program
• Why is use reserved for active transportation?
maintenance on parking lot spaces this winter?
Answer 3 • Over the past few years, we have observed the growth of winter activities, thanks in part
Can we get a commitment from you to keep some spaces in River Ward’s parking lots open this winter

Westboro Beach Area Redevelopment Project

The NCC is creating a more vibrant, active space that will improve the quality of life of residents and
two derelict buildings at 234 Atlantis Avenue (June) Public consultations on the proposed design (winter

Report On Activities - November 2017

Here are some of the highlights presented in my Report on Activities.
The NCC, along with Canadian Heritage, has found a solution to keep the monument open during the winter
Major Projects Update: Rehabilitation of the Rideau Canal lighting system begins this summer Report on Activities
– January 2023 Renaming of Nepean Point: Kìwekì Point Report on Activities – October 2022

Virtual Public Board of Directors Meeting

Report on Activities – January 2021 Here are the highlights presented in the CEO's Report on Activities
pedestrians a central lawn and picnic area, volleyball courts and a series of shoreline lookouts a groomed winter

The Canadian Heritage Garden: Canada in bloom

The garden boasts over 200 varieties of winter-hardy roses.
enjoy the outdoors safely Spring Awakening: Biologists on a Mission to Protect Wildlife Report on Activities

Five tips to enjoy Gatineau Park and respect wildlife

Regardless of the activity that you enjoy in the Park, it is important that you always be aware that
You may also be interested in Spring Awakening: Biologists on a Mission to Protect Wildlife Winter

Urban biologist: For the love of nature

In the spring and summer — just like the plants and animals that I study — I’m more active.
In the winter, I spend a lot of time on environmental assessments and work planning.

One year as NCC CEO

specific recreational nodes along the Ottawa River, piloting new bistros on our shorelines, and supporting winter
actions in areas such as: energy and water efficiency green building construction the promotion of active

Gatineau Park shuttle

Well known for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, it also offers many activities in the summer
Discover Gatineau Park’s accessible infrastructure and activities, and learn more about what we do to
Safety: Engaging in outdoor activities

This year’s green initiatives

It doesn’t require air conditioning in summer, and needs very little heat in winter.
We have a zero-carbon target for all our activities by 2050.

Six things you didn’t know about tulips in Ottawa–Gatineau

We then install snow fences to protect the beds from debris and wildlife during the winter.
enjoy the outdoors safely Spring Awakening: Biologists on a Mission to Protect Wildlife Report on Activities

GP Summer Trails Map

Sentier d’hiver Winter trail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ouvert à la mobilité active seulement Open to active use only . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety in the Park Engaging in outdoor activities involves certain risks.
Sentier d’hiver Winter trail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ouvert à la mobilité active seulement Open to active use only . . . . . . . . . . . .

Gatineau Park Summer Trails Map 2023

A 2023 00042

Access to the site will be limited to maintenance and decommissioning activities only.
Procurement for this project will occur over the winter , with the abatement work and decommissioning
Access to the site will be limited to maintenance and decommissioning activities only.
Access to the site will be limited to maintenance and decommissioning activities only.
Library Parcel • In winter 2022, Dream LeBreton was selected as the successful proponent to develop

A 2023 00029

Winter Conditions (if delay forces this).
Winter Conditions $0 In case of remobilizing prior to winter,extra cost to cover for winter conditions
Winter Conditions $0 In case of remobilizing prior to winter,extra cost to cover for winter conditions
Communications activities: None. 9.
Winter Conditions (if delay forces this).