Ottawa is one of the most beautiful places to live. Nestled on the stunning south bank of the Ottawa River in the south of Ontario, this area is full of great hikes to enjoy with your dog. Whether you’re a local or a traveling tourist, you’re in for a treat when you pull on those walking boots and commit to walking a new trail.
To give you some Ottawa hiking inspiration, take a look at our top picks of the best hikes to enjoy with your dog near Ottawa.
1. Luskville Falls Trail
Located north west of Ottawa, near Pontiac
Luskville Falls is a challenging hike that offers stunning views of the waterfall along the way. Although it’s only a 4.5km hike, it’s pretty steep, so little dogs might struggle with the cardio. For that reason, only take your medium to large sized dog on this hike or you may end up having to carry your little buddy the entire way up. If you decide to do this hike without your dog, you can find amazing doggy daycare options near Ottawa.
The route is easily found north west of Gatineau Park, near Pontiac and features a large car park. This hike is about 40 minutes outside of Ottawa, with some beautiful scenery to enjoy on the drive there.
2. Pinhey Forest Trails
Located just south of Ottawa, near Nepean
These trails have been enjoyed for years by the people of Ottawa, as they offer a gorgeous escape from the bustling city and are accessible all year-round. The great news is that this hike is perfect for your pet, and is ideal for dogs of all sizes and abilities. It’s a lovely, flat walk with lots of tree shade for the hotter summer months.
It’s a solid 6.5km, which means you and your dog will both get a fabulous workout whilst soaking up some of the finest nature that Ottawa has to offer. It’s located just south of Ottawa, near Nepean and has year-round parking access from Slack Road.
3. Rideau Trail
Located between Ottawa and Kingston
These hiking trails offer incredible scenic views of the Rideau Canal and the surrounding waters. Don’t be intimidated by the length of these tracks – all in all they cover 385km of land, but they are ideal for dipping in and out of with your dog.
The entire trek can be completed in about two weeks, and can be a great adventure trip for those who want to really go for it. If you decide to do this, check out these tips for camping with your dog. Don’t stress if that’s not your idea of fun though – you can always enjoy the trail for a day trip and soak in all of that wonderful nature before heading back to the city.
4. Vincent Massey
Located on Riverside Drive and Heron Road in Ottawa
This perfect picnic hike location can be found in central Ottawa, just south of the nucleus of the city. Whilst the park is dog friendly in areas, there are parts of the park that don’t permit dogs, so be sure to check out where you want to hike and the requirements first.
If you want to take on part of the hiking trail that doesn’t allow dogs, why not leave your dog with a dog sitter in Ottawa whilst you go and explore the great outdoors? These wooded walking paths that are shaded by the trees are definitely not to be missed!
We’re sure that you and your dog will love these hikes, but if you’re struggling to find the time to take your lovable pet out for some much-needed exercise then why not arrange for a dog walker in Ottawa to take your dog out? Or, if you do fancy taking on some of these hikes with your pet but need some more top tips, take a look at our foolproof tips for hiking with dogs.
