Ottawa River Pathway

The Ottawa River Pathway is a paved multi-use path that follows the south shore of the Ottawa River through the western part of Ottawa, running from the area near Parliament Hill and Lebreton Flats out toward Britannia and beyond. It is part of the capital's network of pathways, maintained by the National Capital Commission, and it is used year-round by walkers, joggers and cyclists, with nothing to pay and no opening hours.

The river itself is the main attraction. The Ottawa River has long been a major transport route, used for centuries by Algonquin peoples and later by fur traders and loggers, and its wide, open channel gives the pathway long views that are rare in a city centre. Along the way the path passes Remic Rapids, where the river narrows and the water runs fast, and it goes under the Champlain Bridge. The Quebec shore across the water, with its low hills, forms a backdrop, and on clear days the horizon is wide.

Parks and beaches punctuate the route. Westboro Beach is a popular summer stop with sand, a snack bar and a view across the water, and Britannia Beach and the nearby conservation area, which has a wetland known as Mud Lake, offer quieter walks and good birdwatching. Birds such as herons and ducks use the shoreline, and in migration seasons the variety grows. Benches and picnic spots are scattered along the path. Visitors can join or leave at several access points.

At the eastern end the pathway comes close to some of Ottawa's best-known sights. Parliament Hill rises on its cliff above the river, and the Supreme Court of Canada, the Canadian Museum of History across the water and the other landmarks of the national capital are not far away. The route connects to other pathways, including the Rideau Canal paths, so it is easy to build a longer ride or walk.

The pathway is flat and well surfaced for most of its length, so it works for all ages and for families with strollers. Weekends bring crowds on sunny days, and mornings and evenings are calmer. In winter, sections are cleared in parts of the city, and the river ice and snow give the area a different character, so check conditions beforehand. It suits cyclists, runners and anyone who wants to see Ottawa from the water's edge, and it is easy to reach from downtown by bus or bicycle.