Managing Recreational Pathways

The Capital Pathway network — 170 kilometres of recreational pathways — reaches every corner of the Capital region. These wide, paved paths are designed for walkers, joggers, cyclists and in-line skaters, and often parallel the region’s shorelines, linking many natural and cultural attractions. In the 1970s, among increasing high-rises and traffic, the NCC laid out the first pathways, to promote the idea of a “livable” city and to develop the Capital region as a kind of urban paradise for outdoor recreation.

The building of pathways continues today, notably with the Greenbelt Pathway, which connects to the Trans Canada Trail. The pathways in the Outaouais are also part of La Route verte, a 4,200-kilometre network (under development) of bicycle paths, country roads and paved shoulders connecting some 350 municipalities in Quebec.

A Capital Pathway map is available ($).

Safety

NCC conservation officers routinely supervise the pathways. We also work with volunteer community groups to organize volunteer pathway patrols.

In addition, in summer 2004, the NCC, in partnership with the City of Ottawa and the Ville de Gatineau, implemented a 10-point action plan to help users stay safe on the Capital Pathway.

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