A Virtual Tour of The National Capital Region

Three Lakes in Gatineau Park

Just minutes north of Ottawa is the Gatineau Park in the Outaouais region. The park is operated by the National Capital Commission and is 35,600 hectares (88,000) acres of forest, with 40 lakes and a wide variety of wildlife. Known locally as "The Gatineaus", the park also contains 185 kilometres (115 miles) of hiking and biking paths, cross-country and downhill skiing, beaches and campgrounds. A refreshing swim in Lac Philippe, the northern most of the three, is what keeps many locals happy. Even our Prime Ministers recognize the beauty of the area and maintain a get-away on Lac Mousseau, sometimes known as Harrington Lake. Meach Lake may be familiar to many readers due to some contentious political meetings held nearby. Still, any fun loving person knows Meach Lake is a great spot for a swim or to start out on some really nice hiking trails.

These lakes are surrounded by mixed forest, and many smaller lakes and bogs. With trails all over there's great hiking all year round. Interested in a different hiking trail with some out of the place vegetation? Check out the boardwalk at the Mer Bleue Bog. Here you'll find species of vegetation that one would think belong a lot further north than the National Capital Region.

Click here to return to the front door of our site. Order your copy of the full scene poster.