Gatineau Park

Gatineau Park (Parc de la Gatineau) is just n. between the Gatineau and Ottawa rivers. Hwys. 5, 148 and 366 provide access from Gatineau to the park's recreation areas. The park encompasses about 36,100 hectares (89,205 acres) of the rocky, wooded Laurentian Mountains. The visitor center, 33 Scott Rd., has a nature exhibit and park information.

In the southern section the scenic Gatineau Parkway links the lac des Fées, the Mackenzie King Estate, and lac Meech areas. Along with a bicycle path, the route provides access to picnic grounds and lookouts. Farther north the lac Philippe area offers fine beaches and a large campground. In the northwestern section, the lac La Pêche area provides more wilderness, a beach and canoe-camping facilities.

Lacs Meech, La Pêche and Philippe provide bass fishing. Alpine skiing is available at Camp Fortune. There are 200 kilometres (125 mi.) of cross-country ski trails, 125 kilometres (78 mi.) of which are available to skate skiers, and 60 kilometres (37 mi.) of snowshoe trails, 28 kilometres (17 mi.) of which are available for fat biking (snowshoers have priority), with day-use and overnight shelters. In summer ski trails are hiking and mountain biking trails.

More than 50 types of trees make up the largely deciduous forests; there are 100 varieties of wildflowers. Park wildlife includes deer, bears, beavers and wolves; among bird species are ospreys, loons, herons, hawks and ruffed grouse.

An immense icecap carved the park landscape thousands of years ago, dotting the area with about 50 lakes. Once the domain of the Algonquin people, the territory was invaded by the Iroquois Confederacy about 1650. During the 19th century, settlers from the United States, the British Isles and eastern Canada arrived. Evidence of their presence is found in old settlers' cabins and pioneer roads throughout the area.

Note: Anglers must have a valid Québec fishing license. If parking in a paid lot, bring exact change or credit card because machines do not accept bills or debit cards.

Guided tours are available. Pet friendly (call for restrictions/fees.). Recreational activities are permitted. Camping is permitted. Picnicking is permitted. Food is available.