
Chapman Mills Conservation Area
A flat 1.5km conservation area trail in Barrhaven along the Rideau River with a long boardwalk, fairy houses, interpretive signage, and a picnic shelter.
Features
About
Chapman Mills Conservation Area is a small Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) site in Barrhaven. The 1.5km trail runs along the Rideau River with long boardwalk sections — flat, stroller-friendly, and one of Ottawa's most accessible nature walks. Families love the "fairy houses" hidden along the route and the interpretive signage explaining the ecosystem.
Trail
- Length: ~1.5km out-and-back
- Time: 30–45 minutes
- Surface: Gravel + long boardwalk sections
- Elevation: Mostly flat
- Difficulty: Easy (beginner-friendly)
Visitor Information
- Parking: Free (Winding Way entrance)
- Dogs: On leash
- Washrooms: Yes
- Picnic shelter: Yes
- Best season: Spring through fall
Getting There
- Address: Prince of Wales Drive at Winding Way (Barrhaven)
- Managed by: Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA)
- Drive time: 25 min from downtown Ottawa
Information may change. If you spot anything outdated or incorrect, let us know.
Information may change. Please verify details on the official website before visiting.
Details
You might also like
ParkGatineau Park
Gatineau
A 361-square-kilometre conservation park just 15 minutes from downtown Ottawa. Home to over 165 km of hiking trails, beaches, lakes, and the Mackenzie King Estate. Free to enter; parking fees apply at some lots in summer.
ParkBruce Pit
Nepean
Ottawa's most popular off-leash dog park — a large, fenced area with wooded trails, open grasslands, and a community atmosphere. Part of the NCC Greenbelt trail system.
ParkPinhey Forest (Trail 31)
Nepean
A shaded forest trail in Ottawa's Greenbelt behind the Nepean Sportsplex, with 2.3–3.6km loop options on stone dust and gravel.
ParkAndrew Haydon Park
Nepean
A waterfront park on the Ottawa River in Nepean, featuring a splash pad with pirate ship play structure, bandshell for summer concerts, scenic ponds with fountains, and a direct connection to the Ottawa River cycling pathway. Free admission and parking.
ParkMajor's Hill Park
Downtown
A downtown park overlooking the Ottawa River, Parliament Hill, and the Rideau Canal locks. One of Ottawa's best spots for spring tulips, summer festivals, and views of the city's landmarks. Free and open daily.
ParkMooney's Bay Park
One of Ottawa's most popular parks, combining a supervised sandy beach on the Rideau River with one of Canada's largest playgrounds, an international-standard athletic facility, and winter cross-country skiing. Free admission.
Want to add your place to 613today? It’s free!
Contact Us→