GATINEAU PARK
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Various activities in a reserve with lakes, historical site and lodging between the Ottawa and Gatineau rivers.
This 361 km² reserve, wedged between the Ottawa and Gatineau rivers, with its hills dotted with lakes, was part of Algonquin territory. It owes its name to Nicolas Gatineau, a fur trader from Trois-Rivières who disappeared in 1683 during an expedition on the river. It was in Wilson House (the official meeting pavilion), on the shores of Meech Lake, that the famous Meech Lake Accord was signed in 1987 (a Canadian constitutional reform project aimed at convincing Quebec to sign the Constitution Act, 1982).
Push on to the Champlain Lookout (elevation 335 m) for a panoramic view of the Ottawa Valley. Also visit the Mackenzie-King estate, bequeathed to the Crown in 1950 by the former Prime Minister of Canada (1921-1948). Covering 230 hectares, it comprises several buildings, including the Kingswood cottages and the Moorside villa, which has been converted into a tea room. It also features walking trails and gardens decorated with architectural elements salvaged from various sites. Activities abound in the park: mountain biking (rentals available from Nomades du Parc), hiking, water sports, swimming, fishing, camping at Philippe Lake, caving at Lusk Cave, rock climbing, cross-country skiing (over 200 km!), snowshoeing, etc. See the website for access and activity rates. Please note that some roads are closed in winter. On-site camping, canoe-camping or ready-to-camp accommodation.
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