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Chutes Coulonge Park
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Overview
This place is absolutely a hidden gem of the area. Gorgeous scenery and very easy walk. Must-show to friends visiting Ottawa in any time of the year.
Getting There
The park is located 125km from Ottawa downtown, roughly a 1hr 40min drive without traffic. It costs reasonable 9 dollars per adult ($5 kids 5yr and above) to access the park. The historical park includes a walk along the Coulonge River, many breathtaking views of the falls, and collection of artefacts from the log trade in our museum.
The Park
The park itself is beutiful (just like all surrounding area!) and is located at the top of the hill. There is a plenty of parking at the entrance as well as picnic area nearby.
But don't take the food out just yet - there will be more smaller picnic areas with the view as you follow the paths.
History
In the 1830s and 1840s, George Bryson Sr. settled near the mouth of the Coulonge River, an Ottawa River tributary - acquiring thousands of acres of timber rights, located approximately 15 kilometers north of the Ottawa River itself.
Bryson constructed a sawmill on the river's edge around 1850. Because the Coulonge Falls were a huge obstacle in the transportation of local timber, a massive 3,000 feet (910 m) wooden log slide was constructed to enable wood to pass freely over the treacherous drop.
The Coulonge River and the log slide remained in use for log drives until 1982. The site became a public park in 1985 when a reception chalet was opened.
The Trail
The trail is relatively short but every corner of it is breathtaking. Just a few minutes into the trail and you see a beautiful canyon going down the hill.
Couple of turns through the woods and you see the dam that holds the water up top.
There is also an observation deck (some stairs, leave the strollers behind) below the waterfall level so you get a fresh breeze down there.
You'll definitely take some great photos in any wheather.
Also included in admission is access a small museum, low ropes obstacle course for all ages (kids) and a children’s splash pad.
Acitivities
The place also offers zip lines, obstacle courses, via ferrata. Zip line offers nice views but is relatively short, and via ferrata is probably the most unique of all, as you climb at the side of the beautiful canyon.
Summary
Overall, it is a great park and I'd recommend to anyone. You'll have the opportunity to see plenty of waterfalls from multiple angles, have a picnic besides them, and simply enjoy the magic of the place, you'll likely want to return to.