6 Dog-friendly trails around Ottawa to explore this fall

When the air turns crisp and leaves transform into brilliant shades of ruby and gold, it’s the perfect time to get outdoors. Exploring the fall wonderland is even better with your four-legged friend by your side.

Here are six of the best dog-friendly trails around Ottawa where you and your canine companion can marvel at the stunning autumn hues.

The Crazy Horse Trail

Where: Carp, ON
Length: 6.2 km
Off-leash: No

If you want to experience brilliant fall foliage, add this hike to your bucket list. The Crazy Horse Trail is a hidden gem in Carp, Ontario, just a 30-minute drive from downtown Ottawa. Navigating the path is easy; simply follow the orange markers on the trees. You'll explore a forested area bursting with fall colour and loop around a beaver pond, giving your dog plenty of new sights and smells to investigate.

The Sugarbush Trail

Where: Gatineau, QC
Length: 1.9 km
Off-leash: No

Gatineau Park in Chelsea, Quebec, is one of the most breathtaking spots near Ottawa to see the fall leaves. The park offers many trails, but if you're looking for something quick, the Sugarbush Trail is an excellent choice. This easy loop takes only about 30 minutes to complete and is popular for hiking, snowshoeing, and running with your dog. It's also stroller-friendly, so no family members have to be left behind!

Fiddlehead Trail

Where: Kars, ON
Length: 2 km
Off-leash: No

There’s no doubt your furry friend will love Baxter Conservation Area. With 5 kilometres of trails open year-round, you have several options to choose from, including the 2-kilometre Fiddlehead Trail. Here, you can discover a diverse landscape of forests, meadows, nut groves, and wetlands. The walking paths are relatively simple, making them a perfect outing for the whole family.

Waterfall and Lauriault Trail

Where: Gatineau, QC
Length: 4.5 km
Off-leash: No

This intermediate hike was a favourite of former prime minister William Lyon Mackenzie King. The round-trip trek from the Mackenzie King Estate will take approximately one hour. Along the route, you'll find numerous photo-worthy moments, including beautiful views of the park and the cascading Bridal Veil Falls.

Mer Bleue Trail 51

Where: Ottawa, ON
Length: 6.3 km
Off-leash: No

Mer Bleue is a local favourite for viewing the autumn leaves. However, if you plan to bring your pet, you'll need to skip the classic Mer Bleue Bog trail, as dogs are not permitted there. Instead, you can avoid the crowds and explore the unique, 7,700-year-old northern boreal landscape on Trail 51 with your pup. This trail is open for on-leash dogs from April 14 to November 30.

Lime Kiln Trail

Where: Ottawa, ON
Length: 2.1 km
Off-leash: No

Stony Swamp offers several stunning trails perfect for an afternoon hike. Open for on-leash dogs from April 15 to November 30, the Lime Kiln Trail guides you through scenic woodlands. You'll have the chance to spot local wildlife, such as birds and squirrels, as you pass the historic ruins of an old lime kiln.

Before you and your furry companion head out on your next adventure, make sure they're protected every step of the way. Explore CAA Pet Insurance to keep your dog safe on the trails and beyond.