Underrated Trails in the Ottawa Valley

The Valley has some excellent trails... and some terrible resources on how to find them! Seriously when we go to hike a new trail we are often going off sketchy directions and have zero clue what were getting ourselves into on the trail!

Here is a quick guide of our top 5 underrated trails in the Ottawa Valley!

Number 5: Eagle's Nest Lookout, Calabogie

This one just makes the list because it is an iconic Ottawa Valley hike you should do at least once. It makes a great Instagram post and is relatively easy in all seasons!

Where: 6677-6335 508, Greater Madawaska, ON K0J 1H0

When: This hike is HEAVILY trafficked - we only visit during the off season

Distance: 2.7kms - easy to moderate; highly recommend doing the Manitou mountain loop if you have time 15.4km moderate to hard - a lot less trafficked with incredible views!

Number 4: DRXC, Deep River

Groomed cross country ski trails during the winter months, snow shoeing trails and an expansive trail system in the summer!

Where: 119-113 Balmer Bay Rd, Deep River, ON K0J 1P0 Directly across from the Hospital

When: Visit in any season and you are in for a treat! There's even a small waterfall to see here located on the M trail

Distance: Over 30kms of trail system in this park, my only complaint is that the map is a bit difficult to read so be sure to download and study it before setting off!

Number 3: Westmeath Provincial Park, Westmeath

A beautiful trail located in a non-operational park leading to an expansive sandy beach!

Where: 1821-993 County Rd 12, Pembroke, ON K8A 6W2

When: Best visited in the summer so you can hike to the beach and enjoy a swim!

Distance: 8km hike, wide flat trails through towering Eastern White Pines

Number 2: Old Growth Trail, Shaw Woods

Logging in Ontario began in the Ottawa Valley and has been done here for over 215 years! This trail located in Shaw Woods Outdoor Educational Centre is one that is often skipped over in favour of Johnny's Lookout but this is your PSA to not skip it!

Where: 2065 Bulger Rd, Eganville, ON K0J 1T0

When: My favourite time to hike this trail is in the middle of winter! The pines covered in snow is a sight to be seen!

Distance: 1.8km loop - easy

Number 1: Tramore Cliffs or Blueberry Mountain, Killaloe

This trail offers beautiful views of the Bonnechere River, Golden Lake and Round Lake plus its a fun picnic location!

Where: Tramore Rd &, Kilby Rd, North Algona Wilberforce, ON K0J 1X0

When: Visit anytime of year just make sure you have hiking poles and ice spikes if visiting in the winter!

Distance: 1.4km out and back moderate trail, decent climb at the beginning

Happy hiking! Let me know your thoughts on this blog: do you prefer hiking/adventure guides or camping how to's?