King Mountain Trail
A short, moderate hike in Gatineau Park offering 10 lookouts with stunning views of the Ottawa skyline and vibrant fall colors.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best fall colors & fewer crowds
King Mountain Trail
Best Time
Best fall colors & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A short, moderate hike in Gatineau Park offering 10 lookouts with stunning views of the Ottawa skyline and vibrant fall colors.
"This view was like a painting!! Couldn’t believe there was so much beauty!!!"
🚗 Check Parkway Access
Car access to Gatineau Park parkways varies. Check the schedule to avoid disappointment!
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail is rocky and can be slippery, especially with fallen leaves. Good grip is essential!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Ottawa Skyline View
Multiple Lookouts
Ten distinct viewpoints offer breathtaking vistas of the Ottawa skyline and Gatineau hills. A true feast for the eyes!
Vibrant Fall Colors
Throughout the Trail
Experience the magic of Fall Rhapsody with stunning autumn foliage painting the landscape in fiery hues.
Challenging yet Rewarding Hike
The Loop Trail
A 1.8 km loop with rocky paths and wooden stairs provides a good workout and a sense of accomplishment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Fall Colors
Trail Difficulty and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Check Parkway Access
Car access to Gatineau Park parkways varies. Check the schedule to avoid disappointment!
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail is rocky and can be slippery, especially with fallen leaves. Good grip is essential!
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The lookouts offer incredible photo opportunities of the Ottawa skyline.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Even for a short hike, it's good practice to bring water, especially if you extend your route.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Check Parkway Access
Car access to Gatineau Park parkways varies. Check the schedule to avoid disappointment!
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail is rocky and can be slippery, especially with fallen leaves. Good grip is essential!
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The lookouts offer incredible photo opportunities of the Ottawa skyline.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Even for a short hike, it's good practice to bring water, especially if you extend your route.
⏰ Allow Extra Time
While the loop is short, you'll want time to stop at all 10 lookouts and soak in the scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning panoramic views of the Ottawa skyline and Gatineau hills, especially during the vibrant Fall Rhapsody. While the trail is short, its rocky terrain offers a good workout, making it a rewarding experience for most. Some find the loop challenging, but the accessibility and beauty make it a highly recommended stop.
"The hike was absolutely beautiful stunning views especially with the fall colours! 🍁 There are some stairs and uphill sections with lots of rocks, but it’s totally worth it once you reach the top and I would say it’s fairly easily for someone somewhat “in shape “. The view was mesmerizing, and I had such great moments along the way! Definitely will be my annual Thanks Giving weekend hike ! 🤎🍁🧡🍂"
Caro
"Great hiking experience, 1.8km loop with a great view heal way. Challenging for my 11 year old, j hit great workout for everyone."
Chris B
"Very good hiking area. Make sure not to miss this once you are visiting Chelsea especially during Fall.. 🍁"
JLT
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
King Mountain Trail is located in Gatineau Park. You can drive to the P7 parking lot, which is the main access point for the loop trail. Some visitors also use the free Gatineau Park shuttle during peak seasons.
Car access to Gatineau Park parkways, including those leading to King Mountain, can be restricted on certain days, especially during Fall Rhapsody. It's crucial to check the parkway schedule beforehand.
Yes, a free Gatineau Park shuttle is often available, particularly during busy periods like Fall Rhapsody. Check the official Gatineau Park website for current shuttle information.
If parkways are closed to cars, you might need to access King Mountain via longer hiking trails from other parking lots, such as P7, which can add significant distance to your hike.
Yes, there is parking available at the P7 parking lot, which serves as the trailhead for the King Mountain Loop.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Gatineau Park and the King Mountain Trail is free. There are no admission fees.
Gatineau Park is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, specific parkway access might be restricted. The trail itself is open from dawn till dusk.
Gatineau Park does not charge an entrance fee. You can explore its trails and lookouts without any cost.
Fall Rhapsody typically occurs in early to mid-October. The peak foliage varies slightly each year, so it's best to check local advisories closer to the season.
No reservations are required for King Mountain Trail. It's a public trail, and you can visit anytime during park hours.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The King Mountain Loop trail is approximately 1.8 to 1.9 kilometers long. 
The trail is often described as moderate due to its rocky sections and elevation gain. Some find it challenging, while others consider it a good workout.
The King Mountain Trail is known for having ten distinct lookout points along its loop, offering varied perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
You can expect stunning panoramic views of the Ottawa skyline, the Gatineau hills, and the Ottawa Valley.
The trail can be challenging for younger children due to its rocky terrain and some steep sections. However, many families with older children find it manageable and rewarding.
📸 📸 Photography
All ten lookouts offer fantastic photo opportunities. The main viewpoints providing expansive views of the Ottawa skyline are particularly popular.
Early mornings often provide softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for photography. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also yield beautiful shots.
Drone usage in Gatineau Park is subject to regulations. It's essential to check the National Capital Commission (NCC) rules regarding drone operation in the park to ensure compliance.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for capturing the views. If you're serious about landscape photography, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial for the panoramic vistas.
The main challenge is navigating the rocky terrain while holding your camera. The changing light conditions throughout the day can also be a factor.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more extended family adventure, exploring longer routes from P7 can be an option for older, more experienced children. The free entry to Gatineau Park makes it an accessible family outing. During Fall Rhapsody, the vibrant colors add an extra layer of magic that kids will surely enjoy.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
While a smartphone camera can capture stunning images, a wide-angle lens can be particularly useful for encompassing the vast panoramas. Be mindful of the rocky and uneven terrain when maneuvering with your gear. The vibrant fall colors, when present, add an extra layer of visual appeal, making it a prime location for seasonal photography.
🏃♀️ Fitness-Focused Hikers
+1Consider combining the King Mountain Loop with other trails in Gatineau Park for a more comprehensive fitness experience. The well-maintained paths and varied terrain ensure an engaging and effective training session amidst beautiful natural surroundings. Remember to stay hydrated and wear appropriate gear for a comfortable and safe hike.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Gatineau Park's Fall Rhapsody
+1To make the most of your Fall Rhapsody experience, timing is crucial. The peak foliage usually occurs in early to mid-October, but it's wise to check local advisories for the most accurate prediction. Visiting on weekdays or early in the morning can help you avoid the larger crowds that gather on weekends. Remember that Gatineau Park's parkways have variable access schedules, so confirm car accessibility before your visit to ensure a smooth journey to the trailheads.
Navigating the King Mountain Trail
+1For those seeking a longer or more challenging experience, alternative routes exist. Some visitors start their hike from Parking Lot P7 and take connecting trails (like Trail 30, then Trail 8, crossing the parkway, and following Trail 37) to reach the King Mountain Loop. This can add several kilometers to the round trip, providing a more strenuous adventure for experienced hikers.
Regardless of the chosen path, sturdy footwear is highly recommended due to the uneven surfaces. The Allure of the Lookouts
These lookouts are not just for admiring the scenery; they are also prime spots for photography. Whether you're using a smartphone or a professional camera, the opportunities to capture stunning images are abundant. Early morning light or the soft glow of late afternoon can enhance the photographic experience. Visitors are encouraged to take their time at each lookout to fully appreciate the expansive views and capture memorable shots.
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