The Park is also one of North America’s largest winter trail networks, offering skiers, snowshoers and fat bikers a choice of hundreds of kilometres of trails to enjoy. The area is located just 17 kilometres from Parliament Hill. You’ll be glad you read this!
The Visitor Centre
If you’re looking to get the most out of your Gatineau Park visit, the Visitor Centre in Chelsea is a great place to start. Here you’ll find friendly information officers who are happy to recommend a walking itinerary to help make the most of your time in the Park.
You’ll also find an exhibit on ecosystems, restrooms, and a dining room. You can purchase a trail map, day passes, and souvenirs.
Another great way to explore the Park is by bike. A number of off-road paths are perfect for cycling, and it’s a great way to enjoy the beautiful scenery without having to hike a long distance.
If you’re not in the mood for a hike, you can take in a gorgeous view from the escarpment by visiting Champlain Lookout. It’s just 11 kilometres from the Chelsea visitor centre.
The Mackenzie King Estate
If you’re looking to spend some time in a quiet, rural setting that takes you back in time, the Mackenzie King Estate is the place to be. The former summer home of one of Canada’s greatest prime ministers, this charming Gatineau Park site is full of gardens, ruins and trails steeped in history.
The cottages and formal gardens at the estate have been carefully restored to show how Mackenzie King lived. There are also interactive exhibits and interpretation panels that relate to King’s life.
You can also take a short hike to the Bridal Veil Waterfall, one of King’s favourite spots on the property. It’s a beautiful spot to relax and enjoy a view of the escarpment.
The Visitor Centre is located in Chelsea, not far from restaurants and cafes, so it’s a great starting point for your Gatineau Park experience. Information services, snowshoe rentals, public washrooms and more are available here. The staff is knowledgeable and will help you plan your visit to this wonderful Canadian gem. Visit another area in town here.
The Sugarbush Trail
If you’re looking for a scenic trail in Chelsea Quebec that’s perfect for young kids, then the Sugarbush Trail is just what you need! The park is open year-round, and this hike is great for anyone who’s looking to get outside & enjoy nature.
The Sugarbush Trail is a 1.8 km heavily trafficked loop trail that primarily offers hiking, walking, and snowshoeing. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
Hikers can expect to see waterfalls, cliffs, and mature forests as they head into the woods. You can also find interpretive signs along the way that will help you learn about the area’s wildlife and plant life.
If you’re planning a visit to the park, then a stop at the Gatineau Park Visitor Centre is a must. There you can find information officers on hand to answer questions and provide advice on planning your trip. They also have passes, maps, and souvenirs for sale.
The Blue Lake
Blue Lake is a beautiful scenic spot that’s worth a hike. It’s one of 63 lakes that make up Gatineau Park, and it offers some of the best views in the park.
The park is also home to a number of interesting attractions. The Canadian Museum of History, for example, stands on the riverbank overlooking Parliament Hill and displays more than a million artefacts.
Another popular attraction is the Rapides-Farmer Generating Station, which transforms water from the Gatineau River into pure energy. Visitors can take a guided tour of the plant between June and August.
It’s also possible to visit Chelsea without a car – there are buses from either Ottawa or Gatineau that drop you off right in the centre of town. And don’t forget to explore the town’s independent shops! You can find unique souvenirs like long-burning candles at Doozy Candle, or a cute alpaca fur hat at La Petite Grocerie. Browse next article.
Driving directions from Ottawa Building Service to Gatineau Park Visitor Centre
Driving directions from Gatineau Park Visitor Centre to Parc des Cèdres