Gatineau Park
33 Scott Road, Chelsea, QC J9B 1R5, Canada
Gatineau Park is a recreational destination offering public facilities including beaches, campgrounds, picnic areas, trails, and parkways. There are 165 km of hiking trails and 90 km of trails for mountain bikes. In this outdoor paradise you can take part in a range of free and low-cost outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, swimming, skiing, cycling and many more. Hiking is not permitted on cross-country ski trails between November 15 and April 15, each year.
Gatineau Park is Administered by the National Capital Commission. Gatineau Park is a 361 square kilometres wedge of land extending north and west from the city of Gatineau QC. The park includes parts of the municipalities of Chelsea, Pontiac, La Pêche, and the City of Gatineau.
Cross-country skiing is one of the park's main recreational activities. Nearly 200 km of cross-country trails criss-cross the park, which hosts the annual Gatineau Loppet ski race.
Gatineau Park has protected natural habitats and ecosystems, tranquil heritage landscapes, breathtaking views and unique natural features. Gatineau Park provides habitat for many species of birds including the pileated woodpecker and common loon. The park is also home to a large population of beavers and white-tailed deer.
Beaches are located at Meech Lake, Lac Phillipe and La Pêche Lake. Camping is not allowed at Meech Lake, but there are campgrounds available at the other two lakes. All three lakes are open to canoeists.
