I think we can all agree that fall is a wonderful time in Ottawa. I have been trying to make the most of the nice September weather by organizing a group of baby-wearing moms to go hiking once a week in Gatineau Park. Every week I pick a new trail, and it has been really wonderful seeing the colours in the park start to change from week to week. So, I wanted to write this to encourage you all to try and get out in Gatineau Park sometime over the next month, and in particular to enjoy the Fall Rhapsody programming that will be starting soon.
During Fall Rhapsody, you can explore the park’s 361 square kilometres by vehicle on the parkways, or on foot and by bike on the trails. Fall Rhapsody officially runs from October 5 to 27. After the 27th the roadways in Gatineau Park are shut down for the winter season.
On the weekends during Fall Rhapsody you can expect it to be pretty busy throughout the park. That is why the NCC has brought in a free shuttle service. You can leave the car behind and instead ride the bus from downtown Ottawa into the park, or park at Camp Fortune and take the shuttle bus to some of the most scenic viewpoints and trails around Gatineau Park. In the past, I have really enjoyed parking at Camp Fortune. From there you just hop on the shuttle bus (which my kids always think is really fun), and ride it up to the Champlain Lookout (one of the most scenic views).
On the weekends at Camp Fortune you can also ride a scenic chairlift over the treetops to see all the fall colours. Tickets are $10 per person, or $30 for a family of four (note: you can not ride the lift with an infant in your arms or a carrier). An exciting zip lining option is also available! Could be really awesome if you have slightly older children.
Camp Fortune also serves a Sunday brunch at their chalet and restaurant during Fall Rhapsody. I haven’t tried that one yet, but it is on my to-do list for this year.
I want to share some of my favourite (and kid friendly) hikes in Gatineau Park. Expect some of these to be busy on the weekends, so it’s not a bad idea to get an early jump on things in the morning, or if there’s any way to hit them up on a weekday I highly recommend it.
There is also a bunch of special programming scheduled for Fall Rhapsody throughout Gatineau Park including:
I hope that I have given you a starting point to getting out there and making the most of Gatineau Park during this time of year. I really think that Fall Rhapsody is not to be missed!
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