5 Hidden Outdoor Gems in Ottawa and The Valley

This feature is brought to you in partnership by The Water Doctor

There is still time for fun summer exploring. Here are 5 (not so) hidden outdoor gems to discover for yourself. A hike in nature can be so refreshing. Don’t forget your water, liter-less snacks and your mask. If you check any of these gems out… we would love to see your pictures!

Remic Rapids Park

Located only four kilometres from Parliament Hill this park has stunning rock sculptures on the river’s edge. Created by artist John Felice Ceprano in the late 80s, these sculptures were made by hand using fossilized and colourful rocks found on the shore.

The Capital Pathway passes through the park, making it an excellent starting point for exploring. Park-goers can also admire views of the Ottawa River and the core areas of Ottawa and Gatineau from a lookout by the Tunney’s Pasture federal employment facility. More Info

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Morris Island Conservation

Once an Historic Transportation Route is now a “Staycation” destination. Escape for the day and admire the ancient majestic trees, a variety of bird species and shoreline landscapes that remind you of a Group of Seven painting.

You can picnic, hike, canoe or fish. Located along the Ottawa River near the community of Fitzroy Harbour, this 47 hectare site has forested woodlands and wetlands. More info

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Hog’s Back Falls

Fun trivia fact.. The Hog’s Back Falls are officially known as the Prince of Wales Falls but no one calls them that. This series of artificial waterfalls located on the Rideau River in Ottawa are fun to check out.

The falls are located just north of Mooney’s Bay and the point where the Rideau Canal splits from the Rideau River and is open early May and closes December 1 (weather permitting).

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Carbide Willson Ruins in Gatineau Park

This beautiful, industrial heritage site is extremely popular with photographers. It has been closed for a few weeks for restoration work so check out their website before you head out to make sure it’s open again.

To get to the ruins, take Trail 36 from parking lot P11 on Chemin du Lac-Meech. In summer, this trail is open to hikers and mountain bikers and, in winter, to skiers only. The trail is a 3.25- kilometre round trip.

While frequent visitors to Gatineau Park may be familiar with the Carbide Willson ruins, the history of the man behind the buildings may remain a mystery to them. Born in 1860 in Woodstock, Ontario, Thomas Leopold “Carbide” Willson was a pioneer of the North American electrochemical industry, with over 70 patents in his name.

If you go help preserve the Park’s heritage landscapes. Do not climb on the ruins, swimming is prohibited and gogs on leash are permitted in summer.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CBHfTEaF9Vw/

The Mill of Kintail

Take a scenic drive to Almonte and check out this 1832 sandstone grist mill.

Enjoy a nice hike exploring the Mill of Kintail Conservation Area’s extensive trail system. Trails are open year round, in all weather, seven days a week from dawn to dusk. More Info

https://www.instagram.com/p/CDNaMHZFKz7/

These are just some of the hidden outdoor gems in our area. A great hike is fueled by good water.

If you have water worries… call on The Water Doctor, Ottawa region’s full service water servicing company.

The Water Doctor has a Whole Home Water Filtration System for those who live in the city that provides safe, and clean water for you and your family.

The Water Doctor also has solutions for all your water treatment needs. With top of the line Softeners, Iron Filters, UV Lights, and Reverse Osmosis Systems, owner Ryan will work with you to determine what system is best for your needs.

At The Water Doctor you will only deal with one person — The owner Ryan. From first contact to final installation. And all water treatment is backed by a 20 Year Warranty.

CLICK HERE to schedule a free water analysis and quote

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