Cross-country skiing in Ottawa offers a diverse range of trails, equipment rentals, and free skiing options. From the expansive Gatineau Park to the scenic Greenbelt trails, Ottawa provides a winter wonderland for cross-country skiing enthusiasts of all levels.
What are the Best Cross-Country Ski Trails in Ottawa?
- Gatineau Park:
- Trail Length: Over 200 km of trails
- Difficulty Levels: Flat, hilly, and technical trails for all levels
- Scenic Views: Beautiful winter landscapes, forests, and frozen rivers
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Notable Features: 50 circuits, winter pass required for access
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Madawaska Nordic – Calabogie:
- Trail Length: 18 km network of trails
- Difficulty Levels: Green (easy), Blue (moderate), and Red (difficult)
- Scenic Views: Scenic trails near Calabogie
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Notable Features: Well-marked and color-coded trails, nearby brewery and bistro
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Mount Pakenham:
- Trail Length: 15 km of trails
- Difficulty Levels: Suitable for beginners and families
- Scenic Views: Scenic trails near Pakenham
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Notable Features: Winter Outdoor Wonder (WOW) trail for kids and adults, nearby brewery and restaurant
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Opeongo Hills Ski Trails:
- Trail Length: Over 19 km of trails
- Difficulty Levels: Trails for all levels
- Scenic Views: Trails near Brudenell and Barry’s Bay
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Notable Features: Daily fee of $10 per person, nearby ski rentals and Polish/Kashub cultural experiences
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Greenbelt Trails:
- Trail Length: Over 150 km of trails
- Difficulty Levels: Trails for beginners and families
- Scenic Views: Trails through forests, fields, and farms
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Notable Features: Free access, groomed trails, and various trail options
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Britannia Winter Trail:
- Trail Length: Approximately 17 km
- Difficulty Levels: Suitable for all levels
- Scenic Views: Trails along the Ottawa River
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Notable Features: Multi-use trails, accessible by public transit
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Mooney’s Bay Ski Centre:
- Trail Length: Various trails
- Difficulty Levels: Suitable for beginners
- Scenic Views: Trails near Mooney’s Bay
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Notable Features: Well-maintained tracks, nearby facilities
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Kichi Sibi Winter Trail:
- Trail Length: Various trails
- Difficulty Levels: Suitable for all levels
- Scenic Views: Trails along the SJAM parkway
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Notable Features: Multi-use trails, accessible by public transit
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Rideau Winter Trail:
- Trail Length: Various trails
- Difficulty Levels: Suitable for all levels
- Scenic Views: Trails along the Rideau River
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Notable Features: Multi-use trails, accessible by public transit
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Ski Heritage East:
- Trail Length: Approximately 19 km
- Difficulty Levels: Suitable for all levels
- Scenic Views: Trails near the Aviation Museum and Trim Road
- Notable Features: Multi-use trails, accessible by public transit
Where Can I Rent Cross-Country Ski Equipment in Ottawa?
- Hilltop Ski Rentals:
- Location: Near Opeongo Hills Ski Trails
- Equipment Available: Cross-country skis and accessories
- Rental Costs: Not specified
- Rental Packages: Not specified
What are the Free Cross-Country Ski Trails in Ottawa?
- Greenbelt Trails:
- Location: Various locations around Ottawa
- Accessibility: Free access, multi-use trails
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Amenities: Groomed trails, various trail options
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Ottawa Urban Winter Trails:
- Location: Various locations around Ottawa
- Accessibility: Free access, multi-use trails
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Amenities: Trail conditions available online, accessible by public transit
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Britannia Winter Trail:
- Location: Along the Ottawa River
- Accessibility: Free access, multi-use trails
- Amenities: Accessible by public transit
Reference
- https://comewander.ca/story/cross-country-ski-trails-near-ottawa
- https://advice.decathlon.ca/the-best-cross-country-ski-trails-in-and-around-ottawa
- https://ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/cross-country-skiing-greenbelt