Summer’s Here - Activities in the Area
Amy Mehta
Summer has finally arrived and after spending over a year distancing and isolating, more people are spending time outside and looking for things to do. With that said, there are several different activities in and around the area that are fun, low cost, and family encouraged.
Although it may seem far, the hour drive to Parc Omega is said to be well worth it. With a 12 KM trail, you can enjoy wildlife in the safety of your own car. It takes a about an hour and a half to complete the route. During your visit you will encounter Coyotes, Elk, Moose, Great Blue Heron and several other wild animals. The park also advertises a night trail, offering visitors the chance to walk a 1.5 KM path illuminated with lights, while also being able to view certain animals. All ages are welcome.
The Gatineau Park is another site worth visiting. Free of charge, although some sites may require you to pay for parking. The entire park stretches over an area of more than 360 KM. There are several trails that make the perfect opportunity for a nice walk along with a picnic surrounded by natural wildlife.
Mackenzie King Estate can be found off one of the trails in the Gatineau Park. This historic tourist attraction gives citizens the chance to learn more about Canada’s 10th Prime Minister, William Lyon Mackenzie King while also seeing what is left of the Estate. They also have a café on site where you can have a nice lunch.
Local tourists can find several photo opportunities while also learning a bit about Wakefield’s history. The Wakefield Covered Bridge is among one of the top sites to see in the area. The vibrant red bridge is a beautiful historic site that was built in the early 1900’s. In 1984 it had burnt down to arson. The historic piece was rebuilt in 1997 and is now standing and accessible for pedestrians.
Dunn-D's is a local hidden gem that includes an 18-hole minigolf course. It is just outside of Aylmer. The course is available every day of the week until the end of summer.
If you are into the outdoors, check out a regional or national park. With several camping opportunities in the wilderness, check out a regional park such as Lac du Poisson Blanc in Notre-Dame-du-Laus. Just over an hour away, you can find the best campsites along the shoreline while enjoying peace and serenity.
Potager Eardly is offering strawberry and raspberry picking. Right off of Highway 148, it is the perfect location for an outing with or without the kids. There is also a small petting zoo on site and a large play area with a park along with picnic tables for seating. A bakery and farmers market for fresh fruits and vegetables can also be found on-site.
Continuing down Highway 148, you can find The Bristol Farmers Market. With over 15 vendors available you can find fresh fruit, vegetables from local farms, flowers, jerky and much more. It is open every Friday from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
Captiva Farms, is another of the Outaouais’ greatest hidden gems. With it being Canada’s largest horseback riding farm, you will be presented with the chance to discover different wilderness trails with the company of a horse. The trails spread over a territory of over 450 acres in the wilderness. Pony rides are also available.
Farther along Highway 148 is the Coulonge Chutes park and the various zip-line and tree-to-tree activities. It is part way through the Pontiac, a gem of a region, worthy of several days of exploring.
The Symmes Inn Museum right by the Aylmer Marina provides locals the opportunity to learn more about Gatineau’s history and some of its most important figures. The building is almost two hundred years old, being built in 1831 by Charles Symmes.
Right next to the Marina at Parc de l’Imaginaire, the Jazz festival will be taking place, from Wednesday, July 24 to Saturday, July 27 from 7 to 9 p.m. This event is free, and suitable for all ages.
All of the activities suggested follow Covid-19 safe distancing protocols, which make it easy to enjoy time with your friends and family in a safe environment.
