7 great ways to explore the Ottawa outdoors during the cold seasons

Winter in Ottawa can be long, and doing college remotely means a lot of time spent in front of a screen. While we are heading into Spring there is still quite a bit of snow and fun to be had with the last bit of winter weather. Why not take some time away from the screens to get outside and enjoy some of the great benefits of living in Ottawa! Some fresh air, a new activity, and natural spaces can all do wonders to clear your mind and help you feel refreshed to take on that next assignment!

1- Greenbelt Trails

Go for a walk or a hike on one of the National Capital Commission’s 150 kilometers of Greenbelt Trails

There are a variety of trails to explore in the Greenbelt: short, long, easy, challenging, accessible, dog-friendly, stroller friendly! There is something for everyone. In winter, the parking lots are well-maintained, even after major snowfall. If you’re looking to get some quiet, alone time try heading out on a weekday.

Fun tip: If you bring sunflower seeds you can usually get some of the very friendly chickadees on many of the trails to come eat out of your hand!

Trail recommendations from our ACX Team: Mer Bleue Bog, Trail 50-52, and Lime Kiln Trail

2- Pinhey Forest

Try out snowshoeing in Pinhey Forest, located in Nepean just behind the Nepean Sportplex. Don’t have your own snowshoes? You can rent them from several different places around Ottawa.

3- Mud Lake

Located in Britannia Bay, this spot is easily accessible by car, transit, or walking if you live in the area. A beautiful spot to skate with lovely views of the Ottawa River. It might be a little late in the season for ice skating on the lake but if we get a few more chilly days why not check out your local park-based skating rink? There are dozens around the city where you can get in one last skate of the season!

4- The Ottawa River Pathway

This pathway can take you from Parliament all the way out to Nepean, which means you can easily break it up into several days of outdoor exploration! While it can get chilly down by the water, this trail offers lovely views of the river as well as the city and Parliament, depending on which sections you walk along.

Recommendation from our ACX Team: the walk from Westboro Beach to Remic Rapids is a nice walk as well as easily accessible by car (there is parking in both locations), transit, and the adjacent neighbourhoods.

5- Conroy Park

Grab your dog or toboggan and head out to Conroy Park, an off-leash dog park with great trails that also offers a great tobogganing hill in the winter.

6- Cross-country ski trails

Ski through the city on the regularly maintained cross-country ski trails. City of Ottawa and community members help maintain a selection of groomed trails, including along the Rideau River, in Britannia, and along the Ottawa River. Need to rent a pair of skis? Check out these local spots.

7- Rideau Canal

And finally, we couldn’t let you go without suggesting ice skating on the Rideau Canal Skateway! A quintessential winter Ottawa experience! While the canal has closed for the season, make sure to put it on your Winter Bucket List for next year!

Ottawa has so many great spaces to enjoy! So, bundle up and head outside to check them out!