As Earth Day approaches on April 22, there’s no better time to reconnect with nature and celebrate the beauty of our planet. Fortunately for Ottawa visitors and residents alike, the National Capital Region boasts an abundance of stunning natural landscapes just waiting to be explored!
From serene parks to majestic waterways and breathtaking viewpoints, we’ve rounded up our top six of the most beautiful places in the Ottawa region to visit this Earth Day.
1. Gatineau Park
Located just 15 minutes outside Ottawa’s downtown core, Gatineau Park is the largest green space in the National Capital Region with more than 361 square kilometres of rich and unique biodiversity. It’s the second most-visited park in Canada and for good reason – there’s SO much to explore. From scenic lookouts to gorgeous lakes and cool caves, this is one of the best spots in the area for a peaceful and picturesque Earth Day walk or hike.
During this spring thaw period, be sure to wear clothing and footwear that you don’t mind getting a little muddy and stay on the recommended trails here.
P.S. You need to plan a visit to the Carbide Wilson Ruins located inside Gatineau Park! These ruins are the last remaining traces of a fertilizer plant constructed by little-known inventor Thomas Leopold Willson, and make for a stunning photo backdrop.
2. Rideau Canal
The Rideau Canal is North America’s best-preserved “slackwater” canal, and the only one from the great 19th century canal-building era that still operates along its original route with most of its original structures intact.
Plan a romantic stroll or bike ride with your date along this UNESCO World Heritage Site and take in the serene beauty of this historic waterway.
3. Mer Bleue Conservation Area
Located in the southeastern sector of Canada’s Capital Greenbelt, the Mer Bleue conservation area provides a unique opportunity to see a northern boreal landscape. The area spans 3,500 hectares and is habitat for many species of regionally and significantly rare plants, birds, and other wildlife.
The Mer Bleue Bog Trail is one of the most popular trails in the area, especially for families! Its interesting storytelling route and mostly flat, accessible boardwalk make it an easy trail for all levels.
4. Capital Pathway
The Capital Pathway is one of the most extensive networks in North America. It incudes over 200 km of off-road, multi-use pathways, extending from Gatineau Park through the Ottawa-Gatineau region, and into the Greenbelt.
For a fun Earth Day activity, plan a bike ride and picnic at one of the parks along the Capital Pathway!
5. Major’s Hill Park
Major Hill’s Park is the perfect calm oasis in Downtown Ottawa, and the perfect spot to take a break between visits to the ByWard Market and nearby museums and galleries.
This park features some of the best lookouts in Ottawa, offering stunning views of the Ottawa Locks on the Rideau Canal, the Ottawa River, and the Parliament Buildings. Spend an afternoon taking a stroll through the park, plan a cute spring picnic among the fresh blooms, and learn about its history through a series of interpretation panels.
6. Rideau Falls Park
Located just a short walk away from Rideau Hall, Rideau Falls Park offers breathtaking views of the twin waterfalls flowing into the Ottawa River.
Standing at 11 metres tall, these waterfalls are an incredible sight that is a must-see when in the city!
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