The best road cycling routes around Val-des-Monts

A short spur leads onto this restored former railway bridge, now open to walkers and cyclists. Built in 1880, the steel truss structure crosses the Ottawa River via Lemieux Island and provides wide views towards Ottawa, Gatineau, and the surrounding waterways.

This multi-use trail connects to the wide network of trails throughout the city and offers hikers, joggers, and cyclists access to many park and green areas throughout the summer. Snowshoers and XC skiers can take to the same trail during winter when conditions are right.

Rideau Falls marks the scenic finale of the Rideau River where it drops into the Ottawa River. These twin waterfalls, were described as appearing like curtains by early French explorers, which then gave the name to the river and falls since rideau is French for curtain. Accessible by a network of riverside paths, the area offers a great vantage point to see the water’s power against the backdrop of the capital’s historic sites and parkland.

From this point on the Sentier des Voyageurs, you get one of the clearest views of Parliament Hill across the Ottawa River. With the river directly in front of you and the historic buildings rising on the opposite bank, the perspective here places you almost perfectly across from the Peace Tower and the main Parliament complex. It’s one of the best spots along the trail to pause and take in the iconic skyline of Canada’s capital.

If this is your first time visiting Gatineau Park, this is the best place to start. You'll find trail maps, the necessary passes, and souvenirs. There's also a permanent exhibit to visit.

Jos Montferrand, foreman and cage master in the Ottawa Valley lumber industry in the 19th century, is an important figure in the region. He has been designated a National Historic Person and has a statue on Montcalm Street, next to Brewery Creek.

Created by John Felice Ceprano using locally sourced stones, these structures seem to defy gravity on the banks of the Ottawa River. They are recreated annually and offer an artistic experience in the heart of nature.

From the river’s edge at Parc de la Baie, you get wide, open views across the Ottawa River, with long sightlines that shift beautifully through the day. The water is calm here, framed by low shoreline forests and distant city silhouettes, making it a favourite spot for photos, quiet breaks, or watching sunrise and sunset. The flat boardwalk and waterfront path give you multiple vantage points, offering one of the most peaceful and accessible river views in the Ottawa–Gatineau area.