Excellent Outdoor Activities in Ottawa, Canada

For guaranteed sightings of Canada’s diverse wildlife, travel about an hour from Ottawa to Parc Omega, a unique family experience open year-round. Witness the likes of elk, bison, wolves and bears in the heart of nature, or feed the park’s five species of deer from the comfort of your vehicle. There’s also various trails to discover, including the First Nations Trail, where you can learn more about Canada’s culture and history, and a route leading to an old sugar shack, where you can purchase maple-themed goods.

The mighty Ottawa River, once crossed by First Nations tribes and fur traders, is a world-class destination for whitewater rafting. The difficulty and force of the river vary, with everything from gentle, family-friendly routes to extreme adrenaline-pumping waves, so you don’t need to be an experienced paddler to take on its rapids. OWL Rafting and Wilderness Tours come highly recommended, offering lessons and packages of differing lengths, including options for camping and overnight stays. All equipment is provided, and the season generally runs from May to September.

Located near the charming village of Wakefield, around 30 minutes from Ottawa, Éco-Odyssée is a fantastic place to immerse yourself in nature and discover more about the area’s marsh environment and ecosystems. Rent a boat and paddle down the river as you zigzag your way through water intersections, which are home to beavers, turtles, frogs and more. Alternatively, take part in the various activities, including a water maze and outdoor action game, Bows and Arrows, as well as canoeing and volleyball.

For a more relaxed activity, reconnect to your inner calm while soaking up the city’s scenery in a free yoga class on Parliament Hill. Ideal for all levels, the classes, which have been run by athletic apparel company Lululemon since 2007, have quickly become one of Ottawa’s best-loved summertime rituals. The classes run between May and September from noon to 1pm and are dependent on the weather. You will need to bring a yoga mat and some water. Space is set aside for bikes.