Emma WhiteOttawa’s Crazy Horse Trail is a hidden gem nestled within the Carp Hills. This trail is a fantastic spot for anyone looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in nature.
It’s part of a beautiful conservation area that provides a home for all kinds of wildlife and local plants. The trail isn’t just for hiking—you can also enjoy bird-watching, mountain biking, and snowshoeing when the weather allows.
The Crazy Horse Trail was named to honour the region’s Native American heritage and reflects the respect for the land. The Carp Hills hold a significant place in the local ecosystem, offering a rare glimpse of the undisturbed Canadian Shield.
Things to Know
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Fee: Free entry
Where is Ottawa’s Crazy Horse Trail?
You’ll find Ottawa’s Crazy Horse Trail out in the picturesque Carp Hills, perfect for a little outdoor adventure. It’s located off March Road, just northwest of the city.
To be more specific, you’ll want to aim for the parking area around 4017 March Rd, Carp, ON. It’s super easy to get there—just follow March Road until you spot the trailhead sign and the convenient shoulder parking.
How to Get to the Crazy Horse Trail
Closest bus stop: You can hop on OC Transpo Bus Route 66 that takes you towards Kanata North and get off at the stop near the intersection of March and Dunrobin Roads. From there, you’ll have a bit of a walk, but you’ll definitely enjoy it.
Alternatively, driving is probably your best bet since it’s tucked away in the scenic Carp Hills. You’ll want to head out on Highway 417 west, then take the March Road exit, and just keep following March Road north until you spot the trailhead sign.
The parking is right there on the shoulder, nice and easy to access.
What to Do and See in Crazy Horse Trail
Hike Crazy Horse Trail’s scenic loop to enjoy nature
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If you’re planning to hit up the Crazy Horse Trail, you’ve absolutely got to do the 6.6-km loop. This trail is a real gem for anyone who loves hiking with lush forest paths, up rocky sections, and across peaceful meadows.
You’ll find plenty of lookout points where you can take in stunning views of the surrounding Carp Hills. The whole loop is well-marked and quite friendly even for moderately experienced hikers.
It usually takes around two hours to complete the full circuit, but you’ll probably want to take a little more time to soak it all in. Also, keep your eyes peeled for trail markers because there are several intertwining paths.
Spot wildlife like deer and birds
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One of the coolest things about Crazy Horse Trail is the chance to spot some amazing wildlife. You might come across deer quietly grazing in the woods.
These graceful animals are pretty used to humans, so they might not run off as quickly as you’d expect, giving you ample time to observe them. The trail also boasts a fantastic variety of birds.
Whether you’re a hardcore birder or just someone who enjoys nature, keep an eye (and ear) out for chickadees, woodpeckers, and maybe even the occasional hawk. There are also signs of smaller critters like chipmunks and squirrels scampering about.
Photograph the serene ponds across the trail
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The serene ponds along Crazy Horse Trail are perfect spots for photography. These ponds reflect the sky and surrounding trees, especially during sunrise or sunset, creating some breathtaking photo ops.
Aside from the photographic potential, the ponds are also incredibly relaxing. You might catch sight of frogs, turtles, or even fish.
Plus, the ponds attract various bird species, so you’re in for a treat if you can catch a heron or some ducks taking a dip.
Explore rock formations along the way
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You’re really in for a treat with the rock formations scattered throughout the Crazy Horse Trail. There’s something so intriguing about these ancient rocks that have been shaped by time, weather, and nature.
As you hike, you’ll come across a variety of formations ranging from boulders to layers of sedimentary rock that make for perfect backdrops or resting spots. Now, these rocks are also great for climbing if you’re into a bit of light bouldering.
You’ll find that some areas offer safe spots to test your climbing skills. When you’re navigating the trail, pay attention to where you step, especially since some surfaces can be uneven and sometimes slippery when wet, so good hiking shoes are a must.
Enjoy a peaceful picnic
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There are several prime spots scattered along the trail that are perfect for laying out a blanket and just enjoying some downtime. Pack yourself a little feast—sandwiches, fruits, and don’t forget plenty of water.
Most of these spots offer shade and beautiful views, whether it’s near one of those serene ponds or a clearing in the woods. Plus, you can take this opportunity to kick back, relive the morning’s hike, and plan the rest of your journey.
Be sure to bring a trash bag so you can pack out what you pack in—let’s keep the place pristine for other hikers. And if you’re picnicking with kids, it could be fun to bring along a nature guidebook.
Experience snowshoeing in winter
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When winter rolls around, Crazy Horse Trail transforms into a winter wonderland. The best way to experience it is with snowshoeing, hands down.
If you’ve never tried snowshoeing, don’t worry—it’s like hiking, but with a bit more of a workout, and it’s incredibly fun. The 6.6-km loop is wide enough to accommodate snowshoes, and you’ll find the paths well-trodden by other winter enthusiasts.
Just remember to dress in layers and bring warm, waterproof gear. Winter wildlife spotting is also a thing, so you might catch glimpses of animal tracks or even see some of the hardier creatures that stick around through the colder months.
Where to Eat and Drink near the Crazy Horse Trail
Crazy Horse Stonegrill Steakhouse & Saloon
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Address: 115 Roland Michener Dr. Kanata
Phone: +1 613 591 8884
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Tuesday – 4 PM to 10 PM
- Wednesday – 4 PM to 2 AM
- Thursday – 12 PM to 11 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 12 PM to 2 AM
Good to know: Great for families or groups
Crazy Horse Stonegrill Steakhouse & Saloon brings a little taste of Texas to Ottawa and has a menu that really stands out. Whether you’re into signature smoked ribs, wings, or homemade burgers, they’ve got it all.
Their Stonegrill experience is pretty unique around these parts too—it’s this cool method where you cook your steak right at your table on a hot stone. Burger lovers won’t be disappointed either, as the homemade burgers are quite popular.
They also have some solid options for sides and appetisers that complement the main dishes perfectly.
Alice’s Village Cafe
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Address: 3773 Carp Rd, Carp
Phone: +1 613 470 2233
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Sunday – 9 AM to 3 PM
Good to know: Great for kids, families
Alice’s Village Cafe is known for its homemade soups, sandwiches, mouth-watering breakfasts, and delectable sweet treats. They’ve got a pretty solid lineup of locally sourced ingredients and daily specials that keep things interesting every time you visit.
Talking about must-try dishes, you can’t go wrong with their Classic Breakfast. If you’re swinging by for lunch, their smoked salmon sandwich, Buffalo chicken wrap, and Fitzroy beef burger are well-loved choices.
On a lighter note, their house salad and harvest salad are great. Also, if you’re into local craft beer, they have some nice options to try with your meal.
The Brew Table
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Address: 308 Moodie Dr.
Phone: +1 613 596 4226
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Monday and Tuesday – 11 AM to 10 PM
- Wednesday to Saturday – 11 AM to 11 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Good to know: Great for social gatherings or laid-back dining experiences
Known for its diverse and mouth-watering menu, the Brew Table is perfect for grabbing a hearty meal. From their appetisers, you definitely have to try the Brew Table Nachos and the spinach & artichoke dip.
For a main course, they offer a solid selection including the Brew Table Burger, fish & chips, and chicken parmesan that are crowd favorites. They even have amazing options like the Brew Table Meatloaf and flat iron steak if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous.
If beer or cocktails are your thing, they’ve got an impressive selection for that. And for those who prefer non-alcoholic options, their mocktails provide a delightful alternative.
Moxies Kanata Restaurant
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Address: 601 Earl Grey Dr, Kanata
Phone: +1 613 599 5000
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Tuesday – 11 AM to 11 PM
- Wednesday and Thursday – 11 AM to 12 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 11 AM to 1 AM
Good to know: Ideal for small gatherings
Moxies Kanata Restaurant has this amazing menu that spans everything from crispy chicken breast with sweet chilli sauce to a stacked sushi-grade tuna. Trust me, the appetisers, like the chopped potstickers and tuna sushi stack, are must-tries.
The nachos loaded with cheese, jalapeños, and fresh pico de gallo are also crowd favorites. If you’re into burgers, Moxies has you covered with their lineup of 100% Canadian ground chuck options.
The bacon cheeseburger, loaded cheeseburger, and even their beyond meat burger are off-the-charts good. Plus, they’ve got a whole range of plant-based and vegetarian dishes—think vegan Thai curry laksa and vegetarian power bowl.
ParsItal (Persian & Italian) Restaurant
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Address: 1133 Carp Rd.
Phone: +1 613-435-8887
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11 AM to 2 PM, 5 PM to 9 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 9 AM to 9 PM
Good to know: Great for for date nights or small gatherings
ParsItal is where Persian and Italian cuisines come together in the best way possible. Now, let’s talk food—on the Persian side, you absolutely need to try their koobideh kebab, beef sish and chicken makhsoos.
For Italian, they’ve got a variety of pizza and pasta fresca, along with heavy ones like chicken parmigiana, veal parmigiana, and chicken piccata. It’s like a culinary trip through two countries without ever leaving your table.
For drinks, they’ve got a stellar selection as well, from a rich espresso to more indulgent options like Italian sodas and Persian sharbat. And hey, if wine or beer is your jam, they have a curated list that pairs perfectly with the diverse menu.
Where to Stay near the Crazy Horse Trail
Brookstreet Hotel
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Address: 525 Legget Dr.
Phone: +1 888 826 2220
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in time – 4 PM
- Check-out time – 12 PM
Brookstreet Hotel is where you can drop by not just for a comfy bed but also to check out their golf course, luxurious spa, and the on-site restaurant. You should also check out their saltwater pools, and if you’re into it, the jazz lounge has some smooth tunes.
They often have events and specials, so it’s worth asking about when you book. For those who might want a workout or a bit of downtime, the Brookstreet has a fitness centre and yoga classes.
And, not to forget, its proximity to the Canadian Tire Centre makes it a great spot if you’re heading for a concert or hockey game. If you need to mix business with pleasure, they’ve got meeting rooms too.
Wingate by Wyndham Kanata West Ottawa
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Address: 8600 Campeau Dr.
Phone: +1 613-321-0063
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in time – 3 PM
- Check-out time – 11 PM
Wingate by Wyndham is all about keeping things simple and straightforward. It’s a no-fuss option with everything you need to keep your trip smooth.
Their rooms are comfy, and their breakfast is, well, breakfast—nice because it saves you a morning trip out. It’s also right off the highway, so getting around is a breeze.
They’ve got a nifty little fitness centre and a business centre for those who need to stay connected and get a bit of work done. Plus, there’s free parking, so you don’t have to worry about where to leave your car.
Holiday Inn & Suites Ottawa Kanata
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Address: 101 Kanata Ave.
Phone: +1 613 271 3057
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in time – 3 PM
- Check-out time – 12 PM
Holiday Inn & Suites is a solid pick if you’re looking for a classic hotel stay. They’ve got this nifty saltwater pool where you can relax, and the fitness centre is a great spot if you’re someone who likes to keep active while travelling.
The on-site restaurant has a spread that people tend to enjoy, and you can chill with your favourite drink at their lounge. Located close to Kanata Centrum, it’s super easy to just step out and enjoy a bit of shopping or catch a movie.
What’s cool is their commitment to being family-friendly. They often have packages where kids eat free, which is a total win if you’re travelling with family.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Ottawa Kanata
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Address: 578 Terry Fox Dr.
Phone: +1 613 599 7767
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in time – 3 PM
- Check-out time – 11 PM
Fairfield Inn & Suites keeps things straightforward and stress-free. You know you’re getting a solid, clean room, a good breakfast in the morning, and friendly service.
The location is a win since it’s close to a handful of restaurants and shopping spots. If you’re looking to unwind, there’s a pool and a fitness gym so you can choose your kind of relaxation.
They occasionally offer good deals for longer stays or group reservations, so if you’re planning to be in Ottawa for a bit longer, be sure to ask about those.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Ottawa Kanata
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Address: 900 Great Lakes Ave.
Phone: +1 613-270-2050
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check in – 3 PM
- Check out – 11 AM
Homewood Suites by Hilton is an all-suite hotel, so if you like having a bit of extra space, this is a top pick. They’ve got full kitchens in every room, which is awesome if you’re into cooking your own meals.
The complimentary breakfast and evening social (with drinks and snacks) are nice touches. Plus, they’ve got a pool and fitness centres, so keeping up with your workout routine is easy.
Everyone appreciates the convenience of having laundry facilities on-site, especially if you’re on an extended trip.
