9 Outdoor Things To Do In Ottawa If Winter Is Your Favourite Season
If you get excited every time it snows, this is the article for you. Here are nine outdoor things to do in Ottawa if winter is your favourite season.
The cooler months are one of the best times to explore our local parks and trails. Unlike the hot and humid days of summer, you won't feel like you are melting in 15 minutes.
The next time you feel bored, it is time to go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, skating or hiking.
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Pinhey Forest
Price: Free
Address: Pinhey Forest, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can stretch your legs and explore the 6.4-kilometres of trails between towering trees. The forest is especially picturesque with a dusting of snow. There's also cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.
SJAM Winter Trail
Price: Free
Address: Ottawa River Pathway, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: It is one of the best winter trails in Ottawa. There are two paths along the river, one for snowshoeing or walking and another for cross-country skiers. Plus it's right in the city so it's super easy to get to.
Trans Canada Trail
Price: Free
Address: Trans Canada Trail, Stittsville, ON
Why You Need To Go: With 31 kilometres of trails, you won't run out of areas for hiking or snowmobiling. There's even an old train bridge that's been converted into a trail you can walk across. Grab a friend and head here for a little fresh air.
Mud Lake
Price: Free
Address: Britannia Conservation Area, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: It is a favourite with locals as the over 3-kilometre path will take you around the glistening lake. Keep an eye on the sky as you hike as the area is home to hundreds of species. It's especially peaceful in the wintertime.
Ben Franklin Place
Price: Free
Address: 101 Centrepointe Dr., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: The Rink Of Dreams isn't the only free outdoor skating rink. This lesser-known gem is a fantastic spot to glide across the ice. It's a good-sized rink with plenty of space in Nepean.
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Mer Bleue Bog
Price: Free
Address: Mer Bleue Bog, Ridge Road, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you live in the east end of the city, you want to add this spot to your bucket list. There are more than 20 kilometres of cross-country skiing and hiking trails to try. A picturesque boardwalk will take you right over the bog.
Ottawa River Pathway
Price: Free
Address: Ottawa River Pathway, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: This 30-kilometre-long trail along the Ottawa River is the perfect spot to try your new snowshoes. The winter sees less foot traffic than the summer but it's just as accessible. It's a nice and easy paved walking trail to get out and stretch your legs on.
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Shirleys Bay Trail
Price: Free
Address: Carling Avenue, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can spend the afternoon enjoying the serene sights on this snowy 4.2-kilometre trail. It's a flat, easy loop through a wetland conservation area. In the winter, you can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and ice fishing.
Rideau Canal Skateway
Price: Free
Address: Rideau Canal, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: The Rideau Canal Skateway is 7.8 kilometres long and will take you past some of the most breathtaking landmarks in the city. The canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as it's the largest skating rink in the world. No matter how many times you've been, it's always magical.
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.