Last Night: A Colorful Farewell to Fall at Gatineau Park

Chelsea Quebec Local logo
by The Local
October 23, 2023
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Last Night: A Colorful Farewell to Fall at Gatineau Park
Photo credits:
NCC
As the clock struck 7 p.m., the vibrant Gatineau Park Coloris Automnal came to an end. The park's maintenance crew is now gearing up for the upcoming ski season, ensuring that the boardwalks are ready for the winter adventures ahead. But if you're not quite ready to bid adieu to Gatineau Park just yet, there's good news – you can still visit!

Finding Your Way: Gatineau Park Parking Lots

Do you have a hankering to visit Gatineau Park even after Fall Rhapsody has ended? The park's many parking lots make it easy to do just that. Here's a rundown of the parking locations to make your adventure seamless:

🅿 Gatineau & Old Chelsea (P1, P2, P3, Old Chelsea Picnic Area, Visitor Centre, P5, P6, P7, P8, P9, Dunlop, P10, P11, P12, P13, Camp Fortune)

🅿 Meech Creek Valley & Wakefield (P16, P17)

🅿 Pontiac (Luskville Falls, Hill-Church)**

🅿 Lac Philippe (P19, P20)

Need more information about these parking lots? Head over to the Gatineau Park website for all the details on how to reach these points.

Changing Seasons, Changing Roads

After the spectacular Fall Rhapsody, the park's roads experience a shift as well. The Gatineau Parkways, Champlain Parkway, and Fortune Parkway close to vehicular traffic from Sunday, October 22 at 7 p.m., until the summer schedule returns in May. But don't worry; there are still several roads leading to Gatineau Park open year-round, connecting to over 20 parking lots, and offering fantastic starting points for your nature escapades.

If you're not a fan of driving, you can opt for a more eco-friendly approach. Gatineau Park is accessible via public transportation, with over 10 bus stops in the vicinity. Use the OC Transpo, STO, or Transcollines travel planners to help you find your way.

Hiking – a Year-Round Delight

Hiking remains one of the most beloved activities in Gatineau Park, continuing on three-season trails until the snow blankets the terrain. Safety and trail preservation is paramount, so hikers are kindly asked to turn back if they encounter soggy trails or follow any posted closures.

For dog lovers, leashed four-legged friends are welcome on most three-season trails until the end of November (weather permitting). When the park transitions to winter mode, there are still four trails open for year-round canine adventures.

But don't forget about the Greenbelt trails! They offer fantastic opportunities to connect with nature and explore the region.

Biking – The Parkway Paradise

Gatineau Park parkways are a cyclist's dream at this time of year – wide, paved roads flanked by stunning natural beauty, and no cars to contend with. Cyclists can pedal along these parkways until the first snowfall. However, keep in mind that you might come across service vehicles and wildlife preparing for the winter ahead.

Mountain biking enthusiasts can continue to use the trails until the end of November, weather permitting. Be mindful of the trail conditions; avoid them if they're wet or vulnerable to erosion.

What's in Store for Winter?

While it's bittersweet to say goodbye to autumn, we can't help but get a little excited about the approaching winter. If you share our enthusiasm, be among the first to hit the snowy trails and parkways by securing your season pass for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or snow biking at Gatineau Park. Plus, don't miss out on the pre-sale rate – it's a great opportunity to prepare for the winter wonderland that awaits!

So there you have it, folks! Gatineau Park is the gift that keeps on giving, even as the seasons change. Whether you're a hiker, cyclist, or eagerly anticipating winter's arrival, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this picturesque corner of Chelsea, Quebec. So make the most of the in-between season and embark on your own Gatineau Park adventure!

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