Very few places in North America have a network of multi-use pathways as large as the one we have here in Ottawa–Gatineau.
The Capital Pathway network is a safe and fun way for pedestrians, joggers, cyclists, in-line skaters and people with reduced mobility to discover Canada’s Capital Region. It connects parks, gardens, museums and attractions, and offers spectacular views along the way.
Here are seven of the most scenic routes to explore on foot or by bike: five are in Ottawa and two are in Gatineau. All routes are accessible for people with impaired mobility.
Route No. 1: East end, along the Ottawa River
This route follows the Ottawa River along the Capital Pathway. It is hilly, and goes from the east end of the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway to Rideau Falls and Green Island Park.
It passes by the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, perfect for a journey through Canada’s aviation and space history. A must-stop along the way is Rockcliffe Park and the Rockeries, one of the region’s first recreational parks, which offers spectacular views of the river from the Rockcliffe Park lookout. Take advantage of a nice day to explore the grounds of Rideau Hall at your leisure, by following the interpretive panels along the paths.
A section of that route, starting at Princess Avenue, uses a municipal on-road bike lane or a sidewalk.
Recommended starting points
- Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway, P8: Get directions.
- Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway, P5: Get directions.
- Rideau Falls Park and Green Island: Get directions.
Route No. 2: Along the Rideau River
This route follows the Rideau River on the Capital Pathway. It is mainly flat, and goes south from Rideau Falls Park and Green Island to Hog’s Back Park.
It offers many places to stop for a rest or to engage in outdoor activities, including Vincent Massey Park and its wooded walking paths, rolling meadows, scenic vistas and open grassy areas.
Recommended starting points
- Rideau Falls Park and Green Island: Get directions.
- Hurdman station: Get directions.
- Vincent Massey Park ($): Get directions.
Route No. 3: Near downtown, along the Rideau Canal
This route follows the east bank of the Rideau Canal on the Capital Pathway. It is mainly flat, and goes north from Hog’s Back Park to downtown Ottawa.
It passes by Carleton University and the University of Ottawa. Along the way, you’ll come across a series of bridges over the historic canal. Stop at the Flora Footbridge for scenic views of the canal, and the Corktown Footbridge for scenic views of the Fairmont Château Laurier hotel.
Recommended starting points
- Vincent Massey Park ($): Get directions.
- Carleton University ($): Get directions.
- uOttawa station: Get directions.
- Rideau Centre ($): Get directions.
- Rideau station: Get directions.
Tip: You can cross the Rideau Canal at Hartwells Locks, and access the Rideau Canal Western Pathway (Route No. 4).
Route No. 4: Near downtown, along the Rideau Canal
This route follows the west bank of the Rideau Canal on the Capital Pathway. It is mainly flat, and leads north from Hartwells Locks to downtown Ottawa.
It features multiple flower beds along the way, and provides access to Dows Lake and the Central Experimental Farm. The route leads you past three beautiful NCC-maintained parks: Commissioners Park, Patterson Creek Park and Confederation Park. Stop by the NCC Bistro at Confederation Park for an exciting and unique food and drink experience in a relaxed urban green space.
Recommended starting points
- Dows Lake ($): Get directions.
- Lansdowne Park ($): Get directions.
- Ottawa City Hall ($): Get directions.
- National Arts Centre ($): Get directions.
Route No. 5: West end, along the Ottawa River
This route follows the Ottawa River on the Capital Pathway. It is flat, and leads east from Deschênes Rapids to Major’s Hill Park.
It passes by many of the Capital’s wonderful parks and green areas, including Westboro Beach, Remic Rapids Park, LeBreton Flats Park, Pindigen Park and Richmond Landing. Stop by the NCC Bistro at Remic Rapids Park to refuel, and enjoy the view of the rock sculptures by artist John Felice Ceprano. Don’t miss Maplelawn Garden for a rare example of a 19th century walled garden.
For even MORE great walking and cycling routes in Ottawa-Gatineau, visit the National Capital Commission website
SOURCE National Capital Commission
photography National Capital Commission
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