It's day trip time, pack up the snowsuits, skis, snowshoes and hot chocolate. You will find many fun-filled family activities just a short drive from Ottawa. Here is a list of our favorite winter activities near Ottawa!
1. Skiing
Ottawa Isn't lacking when it comes to downhill skiing. We have ski hills to suit all abilities and ages, making it a great family activity. The choice comes down to how fast you would like to make it to the hill. Listed below are the names of each hill and their approximate duration of travel from downtown Ottawa.
- Camp Fortune / 25 min
- Ski Vorlage / 30 min
- Sommet Edelweiss / 30 min
- Mont Cascades Ski Resort / 30 min
- Top of Calabogie Ski Hill / 30 min
- Mount Pakenham / 45 min
- Mont Ste. Marie / 1 hour
- Mont-Tremblant / 2 hours
2. Skating
Looking for a new place to skate with your family this winter? Why not try one of the two ice skating trails near Ottawa. Take the drive out toward Gatineau Park to Patinage en Forest located approximately one hour from downtown Ottawa, or towards Russell to RiverOak Ice Skating Trail located approximately a half-hour from Ottawa.
3. Snowshoeing & Cross Country Skiing
There are many snowshoeing and cross country trails near Ottawa, however, the largest network of trails would be Gatineau Park. You will find over 50 trails ranging in difficulty and length, making Gatineau Park a wonderful place to bring the whole family for some fresh air this weekend.
4. Wildlife
Omega Park! One of my personal favorites, approximately one hour from Ottawa you will find a wildlife reserve with over 15 different species. With many activities including horse-drawn sleigh rides and a grey wolf presentation, this park will become a fan favorite for the whole family.