Location guide

Family of parents and child snuggle together on a trail in the west end of Ottawa in late fall.

West end of Ottawa

Best in the morning:

  • Trans Canada Trailhead in Stittsville: This is a really pretty spot in the fall, with a pretty neutral backdrop once the leaves drop. It is a small area though, so best for small groups and shorter sessions. We won't have as much space to play here.


Best in the afternoon/evening:

  • Lime Kiln Trail on Moodie drive: Has beautiful birch trees and chickadees that will eat birdseed from your hands.
  • Shirley's Bay Beach: Rocky beach, but not too busy and beautiful waterfront.


Any time of day:

  • Walter Baker Park in Kanata: This big park has a pond, a gazebo, and lots of trees and trails to explore.
  • Andrew Haydon Park: Has a little waterfall, lots of ponds and waterfront views along the Ottawa river, as well as cute little wooden bridges.
  • Pinhey Forest: Location behind Nepean Sportsplex, full of tall pine trees.
  • Britannia Beach
  • Old Quarry Trail in Kanata (has a nice open field area that is beautiful as the sun is coming down, as well as lots of variety in trails - evergreens, a boardwalk, lots of colourful maples in the fall)
  • Watson’s Mill in Manotick

central Ottawa

Best in the afternoon/evening:

  • Remic Rapids
  • Central Experimental Farm Greenhouses


Any time of day:

  • Dominion Arboretum
  • Hogsback falls

east end of Ottawa

Best in the afternoon/evening:

  • Forested area along Lynda Lane
  • Petrie Island beach


Any time of day:

  • Mer Bleue Boardwalk
  • Princess Louise Falls in Orleans