Regulations

Pursuant to section 20 of the National Capital Act, the Governor in Council may make regulations to protect NCC property, as well as to preserve order and prevent accidents on NCC property. The following regulations apply on NCC property:

  • National Capital Commission Traffic and Property Regulations
  • Leamy Lake Navigation Channel Regulations
  • National Capital Commission Animal Regulations

Traffic and property regulations #

The NCC owns and manages roads, hundreds of kilometres of pathways and 47,000 hectares of land in the National Capital Region. The National Capital Commission Traffic and Property Regulations include rules governing the following:

  • vehicle traffic on NCC roads
  • the use of the NCC recreational pathways
  • the protection of NCC property

Leamy Lake Navigation Channel regulations #

The Leamy Lake Navigation Channel connects the Gatineau River and Leamy Lake. The Leamy Lake Navigation Channel Regulations include rules governing entry into the channel, as well as prohibitions and obligations related to its use. An overview of the regulations is available in the Leamy Lake Navigation Channel Brochure.


Animal regulations #

The National Capital Commission Animal Regulations outline where domestic animals, including dogs, are allowed on NCC lands, as well as the rules that their owners must follow on these lands. The regulations contain exemptions for people accompanied by service dogs.

Where it relates to dogs and other pets (except hoofed animals), NCC lands are grouped into three types: on-leash, off-leash, and no dogs or pets:

petsOnLeash.png
On-Leash

Leashed dogs and other pets are welcome on most NCC lands, including urban parks, recreational pathways, parkway corridor lands, most Gatineau Park trails and most Greenbelt trails.

In these areas, your pet must be restrained with a leash or harness held firmly by a person or attached securely to something the animal cannot move. The length of the leash or harness cannot exceed two metres.

You may not bring more than two pets at a time on NCC land. Skiing, in-line skating or riding a bike when in charge of a pet is not permitted.

petsOffLeash.pngOff-Leash

Dogs and other pets are allowed to run off-leash on designated NCC lands. Off-leash areas are located at the following NCC properties:

  • Bruce Pit
  • Conroy Pit
  • Hampton Park
  • Pine Hill
  • Rockcliffe–Hillsdale
  • Stanley Avenue Park

An off-leash dog or pet must be under control at all times. A pet that is under control will follow a voice command or hand signal from the person in charge of it. You may not bring more than two pets at a time on NCC land.

petsProhibited.pngNo Dogs or Pets

Dogs and other pets are not allowed at the following NCC sites:

  • environmentally sensitive areas
  • some Gatineau Park trails
  • beaches and surrounding areas
  • some Greenbelt trails
  • the Rideau Canal Skateway
  • campgrounds
  • food concession areas and outdoor restaurants
  • picnic areas
  • play-structure areas
  • cross-country ski trails
  • areas where organized events are being held

Exceptions are made for service dogs.

The animal regulations also require that you do the following:

  • pick up after your pet
  • keep your pet away from fountains and shorelines (pets are not allowed to be within three metres of any shoreline on NCC land)
  • prevent your pet from damaging property
  • take measures to ensure that your pet does not bite, attack, chase or injure any person or animal
  • not leave your pet unattended in a vehicle when the weather is very hot or very cold

Animal regulation fines

Fines for disobeying the regulations range from $100 to $500. For more information, see the complete list of offences under the regulations and the associated set fines.


Gatineau Park #


Rates #

2017–2018
Please note: Rates can change without notice, and may vary according to your group composition and the date of your visit. Taxes are not included, unless otherwise specified.

Daily Access: Summer

Mackenzie King Estate (P6)

May 19 to October 22, 2017: Weekdays, 9 am to 5 pm; weekends, 9 am to 6 pm. Half rate after 3 pm and on Tuesday.
Credit cards and exact change only. Machine does not take debit cards or bills.

Vehicle (max. 8 passengers):  $9.57
Minibus (9 to 20 passengers):  $28.70
Bus (over 20 passengers):  $47.84
School bus:  Free (with reservation)

Meech Lake 

June 16 to September 4, 2017, 9 am to 7 pm. Half rate after 3 pm.
Credit cards and exact change only. Machine does not take debit cards or bills.

Vehicle (max. 8 passengers): $9.57
Minibus (9 to 20 passengers): $28.70  
Bus (over 20 passengers: $47.84

Philippe and La Pêche lakes

June 16 to September 4, 2017, 8 am to 8 pm. Half rate after 5 pm.    
Credit cards, debit cards, bills and coins are accepted at toll booth. Credit cards only accepted at exit gate. 

Vehicle (max. 8 passengers): $9.57
Minibus (9 to 20 passengers): $28.70
Bus (over 20 passengers: $47.84

Leamy Lake Park

May 1 to Labour Day, 7 am to dusk (no later than 10 pm).    
Credit cards, debit cards, bills and coins are accepted at toll booth. Credit cards only accepted at exit gate.Taxes included. 

Vehicle (max. 8 passengers): $1/30 minutes - $8 max./daily
Bus (over 20 passengers): $24/day  

Season Parking Pass: Summer 

Valid at Gatineau Park beaches and boat launches, the Mackenzie King Estate and Leamy Lake Park. Replacement card issued  during the season (in case of loss or damage): $21.74  

Vehicle: $65.23

Winter Trail Access

Cross-country skiing  

Daily Pass*  

Adult (18 to 59 ): $13.92
Student (18 to 24)****: $10.44
Senior (60 and over): $10.44
Youth (13 to 17): $10.44
Family (maximum 2 adults and 3 youths): $30.44
Child (12 and under): Free

Season Pass**

Pre-sale***
September 15 to November 15

Adult (18 to 59 ): $139.16
Student (18 to 24)****: $91.32
Senior (60 and over): $91.32
Youth (13 to 17): $82.63
Family (maximum 2 adults and 3 youths): $300.07
Child (12 and under): Free

Regular
After November 15

Adult (18 to 59 ): $165.25
Student (18 to 24)****: $95.67
Senior (60 and over): $95.67
Youth (13 to 17): $86.98
Family (maximum 2 adults and 3 youths): $339.20
Child (12 and under): Free 

Snowshoeing and snow biking  

Daily Pass*  

Adult (18 to 59 ): $6.96
Student (18 to 24)****: $5.22
Senior (60 and over): $5.22
Youth (13 to 17): $5.22
Family (maximum 2 adults and 3 youths): $16.53
Child (12 and under): Free

Season Pass**

Pre-sale***
September 15 to November 15

Adult (18 to 59 ): $39.14
Student (18 to 24)****: $34.79
Senior (60 and over): $34.79
Youth (13 to 17): $30.44
Family (maximum 2 adults and 3 youths): $113.07
Child (12 and under): Free

Regular
After November 15 

Adult (18 to 59 ): $47.84 
Student (18 to 24)****: $39.14
Senior (60 and over): $39.14
Youth (13 to 17): $34.79
Family (maximum 2 adults and 3 youths): $130.46
Child (12 and under): Free 

*Discount of 10% on purchase of 10 passes or more.     
**Administration fee ($2.50) applies to online transactions.      
***Discount of 15% for groups of 25 or more. Some conditions apply.      
****25 and over: Valid student ID and course schedule required.

Camping And Accommodations *

Summer camping

May to October
Campsite (unserviced) $33.90/night    
Canoe-camping (firewood included) $33.90/night    
Group campsite  $226.10/night    
Group campsite (non-profit) $113.00/night

Winter camping        

Individual (minimum 2 people) $14.70/pers./night    
Groupe (maximum 25 people ) $113.00/night

Ready-to-camp units / Roofed accommodations       

Four-season tents (254, 255, 257, 258)
May 12 - June 15
Sunday to Thursday: $75.60/night
Friday, Saturday and statutory holiday weekends: $100.00/night

June 16 - October 8
Sunday to Thursday: $84.30/night
Friday, Saturday and statutory holiday weekends: $113.00/night

November 15 - April 15  
Sunday to Thursday: $97.40/night
Friday, Saturday and statutory holiday weekends: $117.40/night
        
Yurts (Wanakiwin, Woodsia, Ohomisi, Taylor)
May 12 - June 15
Sunday to Thursday: $91.30/night
Friday, Saturday and statutory holiday weekends: $121.70/night

June 16 - October
Sunday to Thursday: $100.80/night
Friday, Saturday and statutory holiday weekends: $134.80/night

8 November 15 - April 15  
Sunday to Thursday: $113.00/night
Friday, Saturday and statutory holiday weekends: $147.80/night
        
Brown Lake Cabin
May 12 - June 15
Sunday to Thursday: $154.80/night
Friday, Saturday and statutory holiday weekends: $200.00/night

June 16 - October 8
Sunday to Thursday: $169.60/night
Friday, Saturday and statutory holiday weekends: $226.10/night

November 15 - April 15  
Sunday to Thursday: $187.00/night
Friday, Saturday and statutory holiday weekends: $373.90/night

Philippe Cabin   
May 12 - June 15
Sunday to Thursday: $106.10/night
Friday, Saturday and statutory holiday weekends: $130.40night

June 16 - October 8
Sunday to Thursday: $120.00/night
Friday, Saturday and statutory holiday weekends: $160.90/night

November 15 - April 15  
Sunday to Thursday: $200.00/night
Friday, Saturday and statutory holiday weekends: $243.50/night

The Pines Cabin
May 12 - June 15
Sunday to Thursday:  $91.30/night
Friday, Saturday and statutory holiday weekends: $108.70/night 

June 16 - October 8
Sunday to Thursday: $104.30/night
Friday, Saturday and statutory holiday weekends: $139.10/night

November 15 - April 15  
Sunday to Thursday: $121.70/night
Friday, Saturday and statutory holiday weekends: $156.50/night

Lusk Lake Cabin
May 12 - June 15
N/A

June 16 - October 8
N/A

November 15 - April 15  
Sunday to Thursday: $91.30/night
Friday, Saturday and statutory holiday weekends: $108.70/night

*Some exceptions apply. Reservation fees ($11.50) not included. Beach access included in the summer. Trail access not included in the winter.        
**Tax on lodging (3.5% per night) not included.

Camping Services

Water and baggage delivery service (winter)

Philippe Lake Sector
Water (18L), purchase only:  $20
Water (18L), purchase and delivery at your ready-to-camp unit: $39
*Baggage delivery at your ready-to-camp unit: $58/way

Brown Lake Cabin
Water (18L), purchase only: $20
Water (18L), purchase and delivery at your ready-to-camp unit: $57
*Baggage delivery at your ready-to-camp unit: $142 / way     

Firewood (Philippe Lake camp store, May to October)   
Kindling (bag): $7  
Firewood (bag): $9  

Taxes included
*Reservation required at least 48 hours prior to arrival. 

Equipment Rental

Canoe, kayak and pedal boat 
1.5 hour: $20
2 hours: $25
3 hours: $30
4 hours: $38
Day: $50
24 hours (canoe-camping): $45

Includes two life jackets, two paddles and a safety kit. Extra paddle or jacket: $1/hr. or $3/day.
From Monday to Thursday, groups receive a 25% discount on the rental of 10 or more boats for two hours.

Tandem kayak and stand up paddle board (SUP)
1.5 hour: $25
2 hours: $31
3 hours: $37
4 hours: $43
Day: $55

Includes two life jackets, two paddles and a safety kit. Extra paddle or jacket: $1/hr. or $3/day. 

Mountain bike
1 hour: $15
2 hours: $29
3 hours: $34
4 hours: $43
Day : $55

Includes helmet.

Fat bike (summer and winter)
1 hour: $17
2 hours: $32
3 hours: $37
4 hours: $47
Day : $60

Includes helmet.

Snowshoes
1 hour
Adult: $9
Child (12 and under):  $7

Day
Adult: $28
Child (12 and under): $19

24 hours (campers)      
Adult: $40     
Child (12 and under):  $40

Taxes included 

Rules and code of conduct

The following rules were developed by Gatineau Park users for Gatineau Park users, and are intended to ensure that everyone is able to enjoy the Park, now and for generations to come.

Be considerate and respect other Park users

Be considerate and respect other Park users

  • When you stop, move to the side of the trail to allow others to pass.
  • The left-hand track is for passing. Keep to the right-hand track, unless you are passing another skier.
  • Respect the tranquility and peace of the natural surroundings, and be considerate of other users.

Keep to the appropriate trails

  • There are different types of trails for walking, mountain biking (shared trails), cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Please respect the other users, and keep to the appropriate trail for your specific activity.
  • Pets are allowed on walking trails only, and they must be leashed.

Respect and protect nature

  • Leave no trace: take away your garbage.
  • Stay on marked trails.
  • Leave what you find: leave areas, plants and objects as they are.
  • Respect wildlife.
  • Observe animals from a distance.
  • Don’t feed animals.

​Reservation policies​ #

Reservations 

Camping reservations can be made online, by phone (1-866-560-6133) or in person upon arrival at the campground (based on availability).

Summer camping
Season open from May 12 to October 9, 2017 Reservations accepted starting on February 15, 2017

Winter camping
Season open from November 15, 2017 to April 15, 2018 Reservations accepted starting on November 1, 2017

Between June 16 and September 3, 2017, Friday and Saturday nights must be reserved together.

Rates

Detailed camping rates are available here and on the transaction website. The reservation fee is $11.50 (non-refundable). Tax on lodging is 3.5 percent per night (ready-to-camp units only).

Changes

Reservations may be changed up to 48 hours prior to scheduled arrival ($11.50 fee). The type of accommodation may not be changed once the reservation is paid for. To change the type of accommodation (campsite, ready-to-camp unit, group site or canoe-camping site), the original reservation must be cancelled and a new reservation must be made. Cancellation fees and reservation fees will apply.

Cancellations and refunds

If the cancellation is made within seven days of scheduled arrival, refunds will not be issued for any cancellation or shortened stay, including, but not limited to, the following situations:

  • Adverse weather conditions
  • Non-recommended trails
  • Beach closure
  • Late arrival
  • Early departure

If the cancellation made at least eight days prior to scheduled arrival, refunds will be issued for any cancellation or shortened stay, except for the following:

  • Previously changed reservations
  • A reservation during the following periods
    • New Year’s Day: January 1
    • Quebec school break: February 24 to March 4
    • Ontario school break: March 10 to 18
    • St. Jean Baptiste Day: June 23, 24, and 25
    • Canada Day: June 30, July 1 and 2
    • Ontario Civic Holiday: August 4 to 6
    • Labour Day: September 1 to 3

Late check-in

If you are late, please inform the Park at 819-827-2020 (option 3, Demsis). Reservations for two or more days will be held until 4 pm on the second day. After 4 pm, your reservation will be deemed a no-show, your reservation will be cancelled, and your payment will be forfeited. Park management has the right to re-assign your campsite to another visitor.

Campground rules and regulations #

Alcohol: It is prohibited to possess or consume alcohol in any area other than your own campsite.

Smoking: Smoking is prohibited in the ready-to-camp units.

Number of people: For overnight stays in the winter, a minimum of two people is required, and at least one person must be over 18 years of age.

Vehicles: Camping fee includes access for a limited number of vehicles (depending on the type of accommodation). Any other vehicle must park at the entrance of the campground, where fees may apply.

Animals: Pets are not permitted in ready-to-camp units, at campsites, beaches or picnic areas.

Wildlife: Feeding wild animals (raccoons, squirrels, bears, waterfowl, etc.) is strictly prohibited. Quiet hours: Quiet hours are between 10 pm and 7 am. Please be considerate of your neighbours, and avoid making excessive noise at all times.

Speed limit: The campground speed limit is 20 km/h.

Campfires: Campfires are permitted in designated areas only. For safety reasons, fire bans may be put into effect. 

Firewood: Cutting trees or collecting wood from the forest is strictly prohibited. Campers are also prohibited from bringing their own firewood to the site, as firewood can often be infested with insects and disease. Firewood brought from outside the Park will be confiscated at the Park entrance. Firewood may be purchased at the Philippe Lake camp store and at the La Pêche Lake office. 

Sport fishing: Fishing is permitted, except at beaches, subject to Quebec legislation for Zone 10. 

Garbage: Users must pack out all of their garbage. Waste containers and recycling bins are located in the parking lots and at the campground comfort stations. 

Cleanliness: At all times, users are responsible for ensuring that the premises and equipment provided are kept clean and tidy. Ready-to-camp units that are not left in clean condition will be cleaned at the users’ expense.

Campers and visitors are expected to know and comply with all Gatineau Park rules and regulations during their stay.

Engaging in outdoor activities involves certain risks. Be informed about safety measures, and exercise caution at all times.

​Safety in Gatineau Park​ #

Engaging in outdoor activities involves certain risks. It is the responsibility of Park visitors to know and comply with the laws and regulations governing Gatineau Park.

Safety tips: Plan your outing

  • Avoid setting out alone on the trails.
  • Plan your route in advance, and according to your ability: consider trail distance and level of difficulty.
  • Tell a friend or family member where you are going, which route you are taking and what time you will return.
  • Check for road and trail closures.
  • Dress appropriately, and wear footwear that is suited to your activity and the weather conditions.
  • Bring the following survival essentials on all outings, short or long:
    • sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen, hat) and insect repellent
    • emergency shelter such as a tarp or large garbage bag
    • navigation/communication tool (map and compass or GPS)
    • extra clothing (raincoat, warm clothing)
    • flashlight, whistle, pocket knife and matches
    • food and water
    • first aid kit
  • Protect against Lyme disease: wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, avoid tall grass, and inspect your pet for ticks, which, if found, should be removed immediately.

Please note that cellphone reception and signals vary, depending on your location in the Park and your telephone service provider. However, we still recommend that you carry a cellphone.

Outdoor ethics: Respect nature and wildlife

  • Stay on official, marked trails.
  • Leave no trace; pack out what you pack in, and do not pollute.
  • Do not approach wild animals, and make noise to avoid surprising them.
  • Do not feed animals.
  • Do not leave food scraps.

Regulations

  • Pay the access fee in effect.
  • Stay on the officially marked trails indicated on Gatineau Park trail maps and identified with trail number markers.
  • Obey any closures of Park areas.
  • Respect wildlife and protect nature.
  • Do not feed, harm, injure or disturb any wild animal, or damage its home or habitat.
  • No hunting or collecting (of animals, insects or butterflies), no picking or gathering (of plants, flowers, nests, rocks or wood), and no cutting of wood, trees or branches.
  • At all times, alcohol is prohibited in any area other than your own campsite.
  • Camping, campfires and barbecues are allowed only in designated areas.
  • Fishing is allowed in most Gatineau Park lakes, as per provincial legislation for zone 10 (Gatineau Park) and zone 25 (Lac des Fées). No fishing in Pink, Mousseau or Édouard lakes.
  • Parking for cars and other vehicles is allowed only in designated areas; fines are imposed for parking violations.
  • Lock your doors, and do not leave any items of value in your vehicle. In Quebec, it is illegal to leave a vehicle unattended and unlocked.
  • Swimming is allowed only at supervised beaches.
  • Mountain biking is allowed only on designated trails (May 15 to November 30).
  • Do not walk or snowshoe on or near cross-country ski trails.

Pets

From April 15 to November 30, leashed pets (maximum two-metre leash) are permitted on official trails with the exception of the following:

  • Pink Lake Trail
  • King Mountain Trail
  • Luskville Falls Trail

From December 1 to April 14, leashed pets (maximum two-metre leash) are permitted only on the following three trails:

  • Sugarbush Trail
  • Lauriault Trail
  • Pioneers Trail

Year-round, pets are not permitted at campgrounds, beaches and picnic areas, or in ready-to-camp units and shelters.

Service dogs are permitted at all times.

Share the road

Cars and other motor vehicles

  • Obey speed limits.
  • Use caution when passing cyclists: maintain a distance of 1.5 metres (which may make it necessary to drive somewhat over the yellow line).
  • Park only in designated areas; fines are imposed for parking violations.

Bikes

  • Ride in single file.
  • Keep groups to a maximum of 15 cyclists.
  • Obey stop signs.

In case of emergency

  • For immediate assistance (police, fire department or ambulance), call 9-1-1.
  • To report any other dangerous situation to the NCC, call 613‑239‑5353 (24 hours a day).
  • All Gatineau Park day shelters (except Shilly Shally) are equipped with emergency communication systems (24 hours a day).

The Capital Pathway #

Safety and Courtesy on the Capital Pathway  #

The increase in popularity of active transportation and outdoor recreational activities has led to a sharp increase in the number of people sharing the Capital Pathway network. Pedestrians, runners, cyclists, in-line skaters and people with mobility impairments who share the pathway should follow these rules to help keep the pathways safe and fun for everyone.

Safety rules for all pathway users #

  • Check behind and ahead of you before moving across the pathway or turning.
  • Share the path by keeping to the right so that other users can pass.
  • Keep your music low to be able to hear others’ bells and warnings.
  • Move completely off the pathway when stopping.
  • Keep domestic animals on a leash, and clean up after them. Skiing, skating or cycling with your dog is not allowed on the pathways.

Safety rules for cyclists and in-line skaters #

  • Be considerate and yield to pedestrians.
  • Be safe and ride at a safe speed (maximum 20 km/h).
  • Be attentive: keep to the right and travel in single file.
  • Pass only on the left, after first making sure that the lane is clear ahead and behind.
  • Be visible by wearing bright or reflective clothing, and ensure that your bike is equipped with lights.
  • Be predictable by sounding your bell or call out before passing
  • Faster cyclists and groups of cyclists are encouraged to use other, more suitable routes.
  • In-line skaters: the use of poles is prohibited.
  • Know the cycling hand signals, and use them:

E-bikes #

  • Scooter-type power-assisted bikes are not allowed on the Capital Pathway network.

Capital pathway safety tips #

  • Cyclists: wear a bicycle helmet.
  • In-line skaters: use wrist guards, and elbow, knee and head protection. Watch out for cracks in the asphalt.
  • Familiarize yourself with the Capital Pathway network, and know your route.
  • Stay on the designated recreational pathways, and avoid isolated areas.
  • Tell others where you are going.
  • Carry a cellphone or whistle.
  • Call 911 immediately if you suspect that you or someone else might be in danger.
  • Report any other unsafe conditions (such as broken glass, potholes, fallen trees) to the NCC by calling 613-239-5353, emailing us at info@ncc-ccn.ca, or connecting on Twitter.