7 summer escape destinations near Ottawa worth exploring before season ends
A curated selection of scenic spots within an hour's drive — from Pink Lake's turquoise waters to Eagle's Nest Lookout's forest views.
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With summer winding down, there's still time to escape Ottawa's core and explore some of the region's most striking natural spaces. Most are within a 30-minute drive of downtown, accessible by car or public transit.
Pink Lake, in Gatineau Park just 15 minutes from downtown, features a turquoise-hued lake surrounded by a boardwalk and hiking trail with a scenic lookout over the water. The Gatineau Park shuttle runs six days a week during summer and drops visitors right at the trailhead. Entry is free.
Eagle's Nest Lookout, in Greater Madawaska near Calabogie, sits just over an hour from downtown. The hike itself is moderate, but the real draw is the lookout offering sweeping views of the Calabogie forest and surrounding area. There's a rock ledge for photography, and nearby Calabogie Peaks Resort offers swimming and boating. Parking is about $5; entry is free.
Princess Louise Falls, located on St Joseph Boulevard in Orléans, is a less-known gem. A short walk through the woods leads to a waterfall where visitors can relax as long as they'd like. Less than 20 minutes from downtown, it feels remote despite its proximity to the city.
Wakefield, Quebec, lies about 30 minutes away and draws locals for the Wakefield Mill, a restored 1800s flour mill now operating as a luxury hotel with a spa, restaurants, and pools. Beyond the mill, the covered bridge, Fairbairn House Heritage Centre, and Éco-Odyssée — where visitors can explore a massive water maze by pedal boat, kayak, canoe, or paddleboard — offer a full day of exploration. Entry to Wakefield itself is free; activities vary in cost.
Carbide Wilson Ruins, within Gatineau Park, are the remnants of an industrial past surrounded by forest. Free to visit daily.
These spots offer a mix of water, forest, and heritage — each distinctive enough to warrant a full day trip.
The facts
How far is Pink Lake from downtown Ottawa?
Pink Lake in Gatineau Park is 15 minutes from downtown Ottawa. The lake features turquoise water, a boardwalk, hiking trail, and scenic lookout, with free entry and a shuttle service running six days a week during summer.
What's at Wakefield, Quebec?
Wakefield, Quebec, located about 30 minutes from downtown Ottawa, features the restored Wakefield Mill (a luxury hotel with spa, restaurants, and pools), a covered bridge, Fairbairn House Heritage Centre, and Éco-Odyssée, where visitors can explore a water maze by pedal boat, kayak, canoe, or paddleboard.
Where is Princess Louise Falls and how accessible is it?
Princess Louise Falls is located on St Joseph Boulevard in Orléans, less than 20 minutes from downtown Ottawa. A short woodland walk leads to the waterfall, where visitors can stay as long as they wish.
