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Summary

7 Breathtaking Hikes Around Ottawa That You've Probably Never Heard Of

Stroll past ruins, dunes and over a wetland.
Staff Writer

Adventure awaits. The next time you need some fresh air, it is time to explore one of the breathtaking hikes around Ottawa

There are so many lesser-known gems where you can escape the crowds in an awe-inspiring landscape.

If you are eager to enjoy the sunshine, we got you covered. All the trails below are so simple you can enjoy all the sights without breaking a sweat.

Editor's Choice:

Lime Kiln Trail

Price: Free

Address: Lime Kiln Trail, Ottawa, ON

Why You Need To Go: It is a super easy, well-maintained trail that will take you past stone ruins.

Old Quarry Trail

Price: Free

Address: Eagleson Rd., Ottawa, ON

Why You Need To Go: There are two short loop trails to explore where you might see white-tailed deer or turtles.

Petrie Island Nature Trail

Price: Free

Address: 727 Trim Rd., Orléans, ON

Why You Need To Go: Close to the beach, you can find 7-kilometres of trails where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Ottawa River and wildflowers.

Pinhey Sand Dune

Price: Free

Address: 1 Pineland Ave., Ottawa, ON

Why You Need To Go: It is hard to believe this secret sandy gem is in the middle of the city.

Sarsaparilla Trail

Price: Free

Address: Old Richmond Rd., Ottawa, ON

Why You Need To Go: You might spot beavers swimming from the dock on this short 0.8-kilometre trail.

Morris Island Conservation Area

Price: $6 per vehicle

Address: 156 Morris Island Dr., Fitzroy Harbour, ON

Why You Need To Go: It is a serene escape just outside the city with 6-kilometres of trails next to the Ottawa River.

Cooper Marsh Conservation Area

Price: Free

Address: County Rd. 2, South Lancaster, ON

Why You Need To Go: You can follow the boardwalk over the wetland, where you might spot birds and wildflowers.

Before you get going, check our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

  • Stephanie White was an Ottawa-based Associate Editor for Narcity Canada. She has been writing mouthwatering food and wanderlust-inspiring articles for Canadians since 2012. She has a B.A. and B.Ed. from Ottawa University. When she isn't writing, you can find her travelling the globe and trying new restaurants. Stephanie has previously been published on Insider, Flight Network, Apartment Therapy, Faces Magazine, Daily Hive, Dished and The Spruce.

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