The best hikes from bus stations around Ottawa

Walking along the paths around Parliament Hill brings you right beside the striking Library of Parliament. Built in 1876 in a distinctive circular Gothic Revival style, the library serves as the research centre for Canada’s Parliament. It is also the only part of the original Parliament complex to survive the devastating fire of 1916. Passing close to the building offers a chance to admire its intricate stonework, flying buttresses, and copper roof from ground level.

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.

This viewpoint looks out over the Ottawa River from the Portage Bridge, which connects Ottawa with Gatineau. Built in 1973, the bridge crosses the river just west of Parliament Hill and serves as a major link between the two cities. From here you can take in wide views of the river and the surrounding skyline, and Parliament Hill. The bridge also carries a cycling lane alongside the pedestrian path, so be mindful to stay out of the bike lane while stopping to enjoy the view or take photos.

South March Highlands Conservation Forest is a large, ecologically diverse forested area known for its network of multi-use trails through wetlands, rock outcrops, and mature forest. The trails vary from easy, family-friendly paths to more rugged singletrack used by hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers, with wildlife and birdwatching opportunities along the way. The forest’s natural setting feels surprisingly wild despite its proximity to suburbia, ideal for an outdoor escape year-round.

The PWT Trail is a beautiful path, and a key loop in South March Highlands that connects east and west sections of the forest’s trail system, passing through varied natural features including small waterfalls and forested corridors. Often accomplished as part of a larger route (sometimes combined with Dogsled or other loops), it offers rolling terrain suitable for intermediate hikers and mountain bikers. This trail is a great example of the forest’s ecological diversity, from its wetland edges to rocky Canadian Shield terrain.

The South Dogsled Trail winds through mixed forest with a few rocky sections and footbridges to help cross wet areas along the way. It’s a scenic, shared route for hikers and mountain bikers, and a popular path for a nature-filled outing in the conservation forest.

We have a beautiful view from the bridge over the Rideau Canal and its eight locks. They date from the early 19th century.

Dow's Lake Pavilion is an iconic location on the shores of Dow's Lake on the Rideau Canal in Ottawa. Offering access to the canal, it includes restaurants with water views and numerous services related to boating activities.