About Gatineau Park

Gatineau Park is a 360 square kilometers area of woods situated in the Quebec region, Canada. The place is famous for its preserved ecosystem, natural habitats, landscapes, and spectacular views. Owing to its natural oasis of hills and trees, it has become a year-round destination for nature lovers. 

Thanks to its overflowing biodiversity and proximity to downtown, Gatineau Park is a real paradise for outdoor activities. You can go hiking, swimming, cycling, canoeing, or even visit heritage sites in the middle of towering trees. The park also features beautiful lakes, cool caves, multi-use trails, and overnight accommodations. The most exciting fact about this place is that it is a sanctuary for hundreds of animals and plant species.  

White tailored deer and beavers are examples of the large population of animal species you will encounter. You will also run into different species of birds, such as common loon and pileated woodpecker.  

If you are a history lover, Gatineau Park is a perfect place to learn about Canada’s past. You can also enjoy some tasty meals or afternoon tea at Mackenzie. Beaches are also available at Meech Lake, La Pêche Lake, and Lac Philippe. While camping is not authorized at Meech Lake, you can still do it at the other two lakes.

It is vital to note that James Harkin had advocated for Gatineau to be the first national park away from the Rocky Mountain. However, it did not succeed. Today, it is the only federal park that is not a national park and this has had direct repercussions on the park’s landmass, boundaries, and ecology.

Must See

  • Mining remains
  • Pink lake
  • Mackenzie King Estate
  • Philippe Lake
  • Kingsmere
  • Champlain lookout

How to reach

Take a bus from Ottawa. You will pay between 14 to 24 dollars for a 30-kilometers journey and get there in 6 hours and 3 minutes

Tips

  • You will begin your Gatineau’s visit at the visitor center in Chelsea
  • Remember to carry trail map and your visitor’s souvenir
  • There is free Wi-Fi at the park
  • The best view for fall colors is from Eardley escarpment base at the parking lot of Lust Falls
  • The best month to view fall colors is October

Visit Time

Sunday:           Open 24 hours

Monday:           Open 24 hours 

Tuesday:           Open 24 hours 

Wednesday:           Open 24 hours

Thursday:           Open 24 hours

Friday:           Open 24 hours 

Saturday:           Open 24 hours 

Friday:           Open 24 hours

Saturday:           Open 24 hours

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Waiting Time

No

 

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Entrance Fee

Yes

4 dollars per person and a maximum of 8 dollars per vehicle

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Time you can spend Icon

Time you can spend

24 hours

 

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Weather

Broken Clouds -12.34°C

 

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