Gatineau Park offers more than 10 kilometres of winter trails where dogs on a leash are allowed. In a wooded and snowy setting, you can walk on four main trails, three of which are beginner level: from the Hull sector, the Pioneers Trail (1.3 km) and the Capital Pathway (1.6 km), and from Old Chelsea, the Sugarbush Trail (3 km) and the Lauriault Trail (4.5 km, difficult level). The trails are mechanically groomed once a week.

The Parc des Montagnes Noires de Ripon (Black Mountains Park) in the heart of the Petite Nation is a wonderful place to discover with your pet. In summer and winter alike, 21 kilometers of trails are dedicated to walking and canicross. There are also several recreational trails where you can enjoy your favourite activity with your dog, such as cross-country skiing, fat biking or kicksledding. Admire the rugged scenery and the breathtaking vista from the summit of Mont Grand-Pic, where an observation tower offers a 360-degree view of the region.

From its 400-metre summit, Mount Morissette offers a panoramic view of the snowy landscapes of the Gatineau Valley, including majestic Blue Sea Lake. Nature lovers will be delighted by its 13 kilometres of dog-friendly hiking and snowshoe trails. A shelter with a wood stove and a lookout await you at the top. Don’t miss the 18-metre-high observation tower and the famous heritage fire tower.

Explore the Vallée-de-la-Gatineau backcountry on the 12 trails maintained by the PERO trails ! From Bouchette to Denholm, Grand-Remous or Cayamant, you and your dog are sure to enjoy these vast natural spaces. Waterfalls, mature forests, lakes, peaks, a covered bridge: a variety of magnificent landscapes await you. With different lengths and difficulty levels, there’s a trail for every hiker (and dog).

Travel back in time on the Old Aylmer historical tour! Download the BaladoDiscovery application to your cell phone to learn more about the stately homes, the merchants of old, and the sites that have shaped the city’s history. The 1.5-kilometre walk is great for your dog on a leash. Even in winter, it’s a worthwhile stroll: a brief stop at a local café to choose your favourite hot drink will make the outing even more enjoyable. Finish your walk at Des Cèdres Park, overlooking the Ottawa River.

Leamy Lake Park is the ideal place for a walk in nature with your dog on a leash. Enjoy the Lac-Leamy trail, an easy 2.5 km route that goes around the lake and offers magnificent views of the water. Whether for a relaxing walk or an outing in the great outdoors, this accessible trail will appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and their four-legged friends alike!

To discover more dog-friendly trails in the Outaouais region, visit Balise Québec (website in French only). Most places require that you keep your pet on a leash on the marked trails, and always pick up your pet’s waste. For the City of Gatineau, consult the citizen portal for regulations and recommendations (content available in French only). No doubt about it, we’re very lucky! The Outaouais is a vast territory to explore, and your beloved four-legged friends can also enjoy it. + Other articles you may be interested in:

• Winter fun in the city: activities in Gatineau!
• Your Gatineau Park winter activity guide
• 100 activities to put on your bucket list for an amazing winter!