Ottawa Outdoor Activities are close by each community in our fair city. Being the national capital we are gifted with amazing paths, bike trails and water ways maintained by the city, but you don’t have to look far to find amazing natural environments to make living in Ottawa the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts (during the warmer weather).

Hiking

Starting in the core of the city, we find the Capital Pathway network, one of the largest in North America. Over “600 kilometres of multi-use paths link superb natural areas, parks, gardens, museums and attractions. These multi-use paths are great for many activities such as cycling, walking, running and in-line skating. There are also many routes that lead to downtown Ottawa and Gatineau. More and more cyclists are using these to get to work.”

Check the site for maps and more information: http://www.ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places-to-visit/parks-paths/capital-pathway-multi-use-paths-capital

The Greenbelt gives freedom to those dwelling in the suburbs. These trails stretch over 150 kilometres attaching to Trans Canada Trail, Rideau Trail and Capital Pathway network. The landscape is stunning, well groomed trails also can be found leading to the Ottawa river at Shirley’s Bay and some feature conservation areas or specific dog friendly off-leash parks.

For more information check this link: http://www.ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places-to-visit/greenbelt/things-to-do/hiking-walking-greenbelt

Bicycling

Aside from the Capital Pathway Network, one of the most amazing spots for both road and off-road cycling is Gatineau Park. A short ride from downtown Ottawa is the entrance to the park. Over 32 kilometres of “panoramic winding roads” some areas are not for the junior rider, these roads also have dedicated time free from automobiles so you can let loose on the open road. If mountain biking is your thing than why not try some of the 90 kilometres available off-road trails.

See this link for more on that: http://www.ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places-to-visit/gatineau-park/things-to-do/cycling-gatineau-park

Watersports

During the warmer weather the lakes and rivers could lead you out to sea if you had the right map! Right from the heart of Dow’s Lake you can rent canoes, paddle boats or SUPs. The Rideau River and canal are ideal for an after-work paddle. For more serious outdoors-men there are several waterways featuring faster water for kayaks, open areas for boats and spots perfect for windsurfing. The Ottawa River is ideal for boating and sailing as well.

Here are some related links:
http://ottawacitizen.com/sports/local-sports/five-sports-with-spray-in-ottawa

http://ottawa.foundlocally.com/Sports/Spo-Windsurfing.htm

http://www.ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places-to-visit/gatineau-park/things-to-do/boating-gatineau-park