Fall Lineup From NCC

NCC Press release:

Residents and visitors are invited to experience the magical fall colours of Gatineau Park, during the National Capital Commission’s (NCC) Fall Rhapsody, from September 30 to October 16, 2011.

The public can get the most from Gatineau Park in the fall, by:

• Exploring over 90 kilometres of trails by bicycle or on foot. Using sustainable transportation is environmentally responsible and has positive impacts on overall quality of life. Air and noise pollution are reduced, as is road congestion.
• Visiting mid-week to experience the autumn splendour at its tranquil best.
• Admiring the fall colours at scenic Philippe Lake, Camp Fortune or Mackenzie King Estate.
• Enjoying activities for the whole family at the Visitor Centre. The public can learn about the hidden treasures in the Park and participate in dynamic free educational programs: “Follies of the Fall Forest” weekends from October 1 to 16, including Monday, October 10.
• Discovering the Luskville Falls sector. An interpretive path will take you to the Falls and then on to the top of the Eardley Escarpment, giving you a spectacular view of the Ottawa Valley.

FALL RHAPSODY 2011 ACTIVITIES

FOLLIES OF THE FALL FOREST

October 1 and 2 (12:30 pm in English / 2:30 pm in French)

October 9, 10, 15 and 16 (2:30 pm in English / 12:30 pm in French)

Gatineau Park Visitor Centre, 33 Scott Road

An NCC nature interpreter will demonstrate how to recognize some of the 50 species of trees found in Gatineau Park during guided tours. Participants will also learn more about what causes the leaves to fall and change color. These free two-hour programs include a short presentation at the Gatineau Park Visitor Centre, followed by a guided hike on the Sugarbush Trail.

FOREST FESTIVAL PRESENTED BY ENVIRONMENT CANADA

October 8, from 9 am to 4 pm

• Presentation on nature and wildlife (English: 10:30 am to 11:30 am; 1 pm to 2 pm / French: 9 am to 10 am; 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm).
• Ongoing activities (Bilingual: 9 am to 12 pm; 1 pm to 4 pm).

Gatineau Park Visitor Centre, 33 Scott Road

Explore and learn about Gatineau Park’s flora and fauna during guided walks in the forest. Take part in presentations where specialists will be on hand to answer questions on Canadian wildlife, conservation and research programs, and species at risk.

HIKE WITH THE OTTAWA VOYAGEURS WALKING CLUB

October 1, registration is from 9 am to 10:30 am

Keogan Shelter

Hikers can explore the trails in Gatineau Park by taking part in the 12th annual hike organized by the Ottawa Voyageurs Walking Club. Participants can sign up at the Keogan Shelter between 9 am and 10:30 am, where the 5 km and 10 km hikes depart. Bring a snack to enjoy! (Participation in the event is free. For those participating in the IVV credits, the fee is $2.00 as the walk is sanctioned by the Canadian Volkssport Federation).

STROLL BACK IN TIME AT MACKENZIE KING ESTATE

Mackenzie King Estate ― open daily, until October 16

• Wednesdays through Mondays, 10:30 am to 4:30 pm.
• Estate museums are closed on Tuesdays, the grounds remain open to the public.

The Tearoom ― open daily from 11 am to 5 pm, until October 16

Re-live 100 years of Canadian history by visiting the restored chalets and experience nature as you wander the quiet wooded trails laid out by Mackenzie King. Admire the flower gardens and collection of ruins that were the pride of this former prime minister. Or take a break and enjoy a light meal at the Mackenzie King Tearoom.

PARKWAY RESERVED FOR OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS

Saturday and Sunday mornings until October 23, from 7 am to 10 am

Section of the Gatineau Parkway between parking lot P8 and the Champlain Parkway.

Outdoor enthusiasts will be able to enjoy the breathtaking fall colours of Gatineau Park by foot, bicycle, roller-blades or roller skis when a section of the Gatineau Parkway will be temporarily closed to automobile traffic on Saturday and Sunday mornings. This will be offered in partnership with Cross-Country Canada until the seasonal closure of the parkway network later this fall.