Maksym KuzaievPinhey Forest is like Ottawa’s own little escape hatch from the city. It’s a mix of natural trails and unique dune ecosystems, tucked away just a short drive from downtown.
Fun fact: it’s actually part of a reforestation project started back in the early 1940s. Today, it’s a favourite spot for hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to soak up some fresh air and unplug for a bit.
What’s cool about Pinhey Forest is that it’s got a bit of everything—dense tree-lined paths and open dune areas—with over six kilometres of trails to explore. Plus, it’s a dog-friendly spot, so you’ll see plenty of wagging tails along the way.
Things to Know
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Contact: +1 613 239 5000
Facilities:
- Parking
- Washrooms
- Unsheltered picnic areas
Where is Pinhey Forest?
Pinhey Forest is in Ottawa’s south end, just off Slack Road. It’s tucked between Woodroffe Avenue and the Greenbelt, making it relatively easy to access by car or bike.
The forest is part of the National Capital Commission’s Greenbelt area, and you’ll find the main entrance and parking near Slack Road.
How to Get to Pinhey Forest
By car or bike: Just head to Slack Road in Ottawa’s south end—it’s near Woodroffe Avenue and the Greenbelt. You’ll find a parking lot right by the trail entrance, so no worries about finding a spot.
By bus: If you’re using public transit, OC Transpo has you covered. Take any bus heading toward the Nepean or Barrhaven area and look for stops near Slack Road or Hunt Club Road.
From there, it’s a short walk to the trail entrance—you’ll spot it pretty easily!
What to Do in and near Pinhey Forest
Hike the scenic trails
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Pinhey Forest is a haven for trail enthusiasts, offering a variety of paths to explore. If you’re looking for shade and a peaceful walk, Trail 31 is perfect—it winds through dense pine trees, providing a cool retreat on hot days.
For something a bit more unique, Trail 32 takes you through both thick forest sections and open dunes, giving you a mix of Ottawa’s natural landscapes. You can bring your furry companions along, as the trails are dog-friendly.
The terrain is generally easy to navigate, making it ideal for any skill level. The NCC has done a great job maintaining the paths, so they’re accessible year-round and well-marked.
Photograph the rare Pinhey Sand Dunes
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The Pinhey Sand Dunes are remnants of a 10,000-year-old ecosystem, formed during the last ice age. At their peak, the dunes spanned over 1.5 square kilometres, but much of the area was planted over during deforestation projects in the 1950s.
Today, thanks to efforts by the National Capital Commission (NCC) and the Biodiversity Conservancy International (BCI), parts of the dunes are being restored to preserve the rare ecosystem. If you’re into photography, this spot is a goldmine.
Aside from snapping shots, walking through the dunes gives you a real sense of how much effort has gone into conserving this space. Just be mindful to stick to marked areas, as wandering off could harm the fragile ecosystem.
Enjoy a peaceful picnic
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Pinhey Forest is ideal for a laid-back afternoon picnic among rows of towering pine trees. The shaded areas near Trail 31 are perfect if you want to spread out a blanket and relax with snacks or lunch.
There are no formal picnic tables here, so you’ll need to bring your own setup, but that’s part of the charm! Bonus tip: This can double as an activity after hiking the nearby trails, making the day feel even more relaxing.
Spot wildlife along the quieter paths
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Pinhey Forest isn’t just a pretty place—it’s teeming with wildlife, especially if you take time to explore the quieter trails. Early mornings and late afternoons are prime times to catch a glimpse of deer, rabbits, and other animals that call this forest home.
Birds are also everywhere—you might spot woodpeckers, chickadees, or even hawks perched high in the pine trees. If you’re lucky, you might even cross paths with some rarer critters that thrive in Ottawa’s Greenbelt.
Since Pinhey Forest tends to be less crowded than other parks, the animals here are not shy. It’s also worth mentioning that the dunes attract different species of insects, like butterflies—another cool thing about the ecosystem here.
Drop by Nepean Sportsplex for swimming or ice skating
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Address: 1701 Woodroffe Ave.
Contact details: +1 613 580 2828
Operating hours:
- Monday and Wednesday – 6:30 AM to 9 PM
- Tuesday and Thursday – 8 AM to 9 PM
- Friday – 6:30 AM to 8 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 7 PM
- Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Cost:
- Leisure pool fees:
- Preschool – Free
- Child, youth, student, household (per person) – $4.06
- Adult – $6.20
- Senior – $4.76
- Groups of ten or more – $3.57 per head
*rates will have an additional HST. For the complete entry fees, click here
Just a 3-minute walk from Pinhey Forest, Nepean Sportsplex is the perfect place to add some excitement to your day. This multi-purpose facility has something for everyone, whether you’re into swimming, skating, or even playing squash.
The pool area is a big draw—it features a lap pool, a leisure pool, and a diving board, so you can take your pick. Just check the public swim schedule in advance, as it varies depending on the day.
Now, if skating is more your thing, Nepean Sportsflex offers public skating sessions on its well-maintained rinks. Don’t worry if you don’t have your own skates—they’ve got rentals to make things easier.
Bowl a round with friends at Merivale Bowling Centre
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Address: 1916 Merivale Rd.
Contact details: +1 613 228 9190
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 10 AM to 10 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 10 AM to 12 AM
Cost:
- $7.99 per person
- $3.50 shoe rental
If you’re looking for a bit of classic indoor fun after wandering around Pinhey Forest, Merivale Bowling Centre is a fantastic option that’s only a short drive away. This spot has old-school fun at its best, with both five-pin and ten-pin bowling available.
They’ve got shoe rentals on-site, so you really only need to show up ready to roll (pun intended!). The atmosphere here is totally low-pressure, so even if you’re not the greatest bowler, you’ll still have a blast here.
They’ve got lightweight balls and bumpers to keep things fun for kids, too! There’s also an arcade area packed with games for when you need a little break between bowling rounds.
Pick fresh strawberries at Shouldice Berry Farm
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Address: 2110 Merivale Rd.
Contact details: +1 613 838 2129
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 8 PM
For something a little different—and totally seasonal—head over to Shouldice Berry Farm. During the summer months, strawberry season is in full swing, and there’s nothing quite like wandering through rows of ripe berries and filling up your basket.
You pay by the weight of the berries you pick, and the staff will give you tips on how to choose the ripest, juiciest ones. They also offer pre-picked baskets if you don’t have the time (or patience!) to pick your own.
Strawberries aren’t all they grow either; depending on the season, you might also find raspberries, apples, or other produce available. Before you leave, make a quick stop at their market area, which stocks additional farm-fresh products like jams and honey.
Where to Eat near Pinhey Forest
Mexicali Rosa’s
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Address: 540 W Hunt Club Rd.
Phone: +1 613 737 4444
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 10 PM
Good to know: Great for groups, casual dining, or a fun night out
Mexicali Rosa’s specialises in “California-style Mexican food”, with all the classics you’d expect: tacos, fajitas, burritos, quesadillas, enchiladas, and nachos. For hearty options, you’ve got to try the Texas red hot chilli—a generous 10oz bowl—or the burrito bowl.
These are great to enjoy on their patio when the weather’s nice, or you can stick at the main dining area (it boasts a separate bar section, by the way).
Local tip: They host events like trivia nights and paint nights, so there’s always something fun to catch here.
A&W Canada
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Address: 1830 Merivale Rd.
Phone: +1 613 228 9714
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Good to know: Great for families or group meals
A&W Canada serves up classic Canadian fast food favourites, but what sets them apart is their commitment to 100% chicken and beef raised without antibiotics—hello, food-conscious! When it comes to its menu, A&W really shines with its chicken offerings.
They’ve got an impressive lineup, with best-sellers like the Nashville hot chicken cruncher and spicy habanero chicken burger. If you’re not in the mood for a sandwich, their chicken strips are a great option.
Montana’s BBQ & Bar
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Address: 1711 Merivale Rd.
Phone: +1 613 288 0517
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 11 AM to 10 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 11 AM to 11 PM
Good to know: Perfect for casual dinners, team outings, and gatherings
Montana’s BBQ & Bar doesn’t mess around when it comes to their menu—they’re all about big portions and bold flavours. What they’re really known for is their steaks and smoked meats, making it an ideal place to satisfy those comfort food cravings.
As far as what to order, their AAA sirloin steak and signature surd and turf are both top-tier choices if you’re looking for a solid steak dinner. But if you want something a little more snackable, swing by on a Tuesday for their taco deal—it runs all day!
Crispy’s Resto Grill
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Address: 1433 Woodroffe Ave.
Phone: +1 613 695 7575
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11:30 AM to 4 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 4 AM
Good to know: Great for to-go meals or a quick bite
Crispy’s Resto Grill is all about chicken—whether you’re into boneless pieces or classic fried cuts, this is the kind of comfort food that doesn’t disappoint. Their chunks of boneless fried chicken and boneless thighs are the real stars of the show.
They also have an impressive selection of dips and dressings, so there’s plenty of room to get creative with flavours. Crispy’s offers delivery and takeout as well, so if you’re not into dine-in vibes, you can enjoy their chicken at home or at Pinhey Forest!
Where to Stay near Pinhey Forest
Sandman Signature Ottawa Airport Hotel
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Address: 250 W Hunt Club Rd.
Phone: +1 613 216 7263
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
Located less than 10 minutes away from Ottawa International Airport, the Sandman Signature is especially ideal for travellers needing easy access to flights. The hotel offers modern accommodations, including family-friendly suites and pet-friendly options.
Plus, you’ll find an on-site Moxie’s Grill & Bar for casual dining, but if you don’t feel like dining out, room service is available. Another standout feature is its free airport shuttle service, as well as a spacious parking area.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ottawa West
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Address: 2055 Robertson Rd.
Phone: +1 613 690 0100
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 4 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
Holiday Inn Express & Suites West provides contemporary suites that come with essentials like comfortable beds, TVs, and work desks. One of the biggest perks here is the complimentary breakfast buffet, where you can enjoy everything from eggs to pastries.
The hotel also has laundry facilities, which is a big bonus for longer stays. Its location is also a key highlight—you’re just 15 minutes or so from Pinhey Forest and close to other local attractions like Bayshore Shopping Centre.
Hampton Inn & Suites Ottawa West
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Address: 125 Lusk St.
Phone: +1 613 216 7829
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 11 AM
Hampton Inn & Suites Ottawa West is a newer hotel, so everything feels fresh and well-maintained. The rooms are spacious, featuring comfortable beds, large TVs, and work-friendly setups with ergonomic chairs and desks.
The design is functional yet inviting, so it’s a good choice for families, business travellers, or anyone wanting a hassle-free stay. There’s also free coffee and tea available throughout the day in the lobby, which is ideal for quick pick-me-ups.
Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Airport
Address: 2400 Alert Rd.
Phone: +1 613 288 9001
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 11 AM
The Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Airport is another excellent choice for those who prioritise proximity to the airport while staying near Ottawa’s main attractions. The hotel’s on-site restaurant, the Garden Grille & Bar, makes dining easy.
You’ll also find a 24/7 convenience store on the premises for snacks or essentials. Their complimentary airport shuttle is another standout feature, and there’s ample parking if you’re driving to explore sites like nearby Pinhey Forest.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Ottawa Airport
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Address: 135 Thad Johnson Private
Phone: +1 613 691 2161
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 4 PM
- Check-out – 11 AM
For modern comfort paired with proximity to both the airport and Pinhey Forest, the Fairfield Inn & Suites Ottawa Airport checks all the boxes. Families, solo travellers, and business guests alike will find everything they need for a comfortable and easy stay.
One of the best perks here is the complimentary hot breakfast bar, as well as the 24-hour market in the lobby for snacks and quick bites at any time. If you like to stay active, the fitness centre is open 24/7, or you can take a dip at their indoor saltwater pool.
