Best Weekend Hikes in Ottawa & Gatineau

This is the crown jewel of Gatineau Park. It’s a 1.9km loop that takes you to the Eardley Escarpment, offering a stunning view of the Ottawa River Valley. The terrain is rugged and rocky, with several stairs, but the payoff at the top is unmatched. It’s particularly breathtaking in the fall when the leaves change.

Despite the name, Pink Lake is actually a vibrant turquoise green. It’s a "meromictic" lake, meaning the water layers don’t mix, creating a unique ecosystem. The 2.5km trail circles the entire lake with boardwalks and lookouts. It feels like you’ve been transported to a tropical lagoon, right in the middle of Quebec.

Mer Bleue is unlike anywhere else in Ottawa. It’s a 7,700-year-old peat bog that resembles a northern boreal landscape. The 1.2km boardwalk trail floats over the sphagnum moss and unique vegetation. It is flat, accessible, and incredibly peaceful—perfect for a relaxing walk rather than a hike.

If you want a challenge, this is it. This trail climbs 300 meters straight up the escarpment. It’s a steep, rocky ascent that requires good hiking boots. In the spring, the waterfall is roaring; in the summer, it trickles, but the panoramic view from the fire tower at the top is spectacular year-round.

Part of the Stony Swamp network, this trail offers a mix of history and nature. The highlight is the massive stone ruins of a 19th-century lime kiln. The trail connects to the Beaver Trail, making it easy to extend your walk. It’s flat, shaded, and great for families with kids or dogs.