Here’s What to Do This Weekend: See Fall Rhapsody Before it’s Gone

It’s impossible not to fall in love with the changing colours on the trees in the Ottawa area. They may not last forever, but we do know one of the best spots to visit to take in the landscape: Gatineau Park.

Time is running out to enjoy Fall Rhapsody, the special event designated to see the fall colours in the Ottawa and Gatineau area. Fall Rhapsody is only officially around until October 21 and offers families from Ottawa and from out of town the opportunity to enjoy the changing leaves in a stunning way.

Here’s what you need to know

Fall Rhapsody is hosted by the National Capital Commission and is marked as the best way to see the colours of Gatineau Park. What we love is the FREE shuttle that’s available to take you to various locations to really take in the colours. For example, you can go to Pink Lake (we’ve included this location in our list for our favourite spots to enjoy a family nature walk) or even to Camp Fortune. The Shuttle leaves from downtown Ottawa and Gatineau every 20 to 40 minutes and is available until 1 pm.

In addition to being able to take the shuttle, you can plan your own drive to various locations of Gatineau Park. Note that certain areas will be closed on the weekends to vehicle traffic until October 28th, but they will be open for bicycles, and walkers, making the perfect opportunity for a weekend stroll.

Or maybe you want to be more adventurous and see the fall colours from the aerial views at Camp Fortune on the weekends. Until November 4th, you can zip-line between the trees for a completely unique fall foliage experience.

No matter how you want to take in the amazing views, plan accordingly before the leaves are gone for the season. You can find an interactive map on the NCC website that will help you plan out your route in finding your favourite, most special spot to see the colours.

Photo credit: Ottawa Tourism

In addition to snapping new family photos in these locales (or to caption the most insta-worthy click!), your family can plan out a hike on one of the trails, or even pack a picnic to extend the day and rejuvenate. It wouldn’t be a bad idea to pack a thermos with some hot chocolate for everyone too.

Fall Rhapsody officially ends on October 21, but some special dates like the Camp Fortune zip-lining or the road closures are on until the end of the month. After that, you are going to have to cross your fingers and hope that you can still see the amazing colours along the various routes and locations. The fall is truly a special time to be in Ottawa, and Gatineau Park is one reason why we can’t help but fall in love with the area all over again.

Feature photo credit: Ottawa Tourism