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Nature

Hog's Back Falls

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Hog's Back Falls

Hog's Back Falls

Located near Mooney's Bay, this man-made waterfall marks the point where the Rideau River diverges from the Rideau Canal. Visitors go here to observe the water flow and the surrounding natural landscape within the city limits.

Getting There

The falls are located south of the downtown core. Depending on the mode of transport, it typically takes 15 to 25 minutes to reach the site from the city centre via car or public transit.

Duration of Visit

Most visitors spend between 30 minutes to one hour at the site, as the primary attraction is the viewing area of the falls.

When to Visit

The site is accessible year-round, though the experience differs by season; the water flows in the warmer months, while the area is often frozen in winter. Visiting during weekday mornings generally avoids the larger crowds that gather on weekends.

Nearby Attractions

The location can be combined with other sites in the surrounding area:

  • St John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic National Shrine (0.8km)
  • St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral (0.8km)
  • Canada Agriculture and Food Museum (1.9km)
  • Old Ottawa South (2.5km)

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Hog's Back Falls

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Good to visit alongside

St John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic National Shrine

Temples & religious sites

St John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic National Shrine

A Ukrainian Catholic shrine in Ottawa, regarded as one of the city's leading religious sites. It's a peaceful place to explore and experience Ukrainian Catholic tradition.

0.8 km away

St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral

Temples & religious sites

St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral

This Antiochian Orthodox cathedral is located near Mooney's Bay in Ottawa, just south of Hog's Back Falls. It's a quiet spot a little outside downtown where you can experience Orthodox church architecture.

0.8 km away

Canada Agriculture and Food Museum

Museums & galleries

Canada Agriculture and Food Museum

This national agriculture museum sits on the grounds of the Central Experimental Farm in Ottawa and is set up as a working farm. Visitors can explore exhibits and programs covering the history and science of Canadian agriculture.

1.9 km away

Old Ottawa South

Shopping & districts

Old Ottawa South

Old Ottawa South is a quiet residential neighbourhood between the Rideau Canal and the Rideau River. It's a pleasant place for a riverside walk, with views of the nearby Carleton University campus along the way.

2.5 km away

Dominion Observatory

Attraction

Dominion Observatory

The Dominion Observatory was a former observatory on the grounds of the Central Experimental Farm in Ottawa, operating from 1902 to 1970 and leading Canada's astronomical and geodetic research. Its Romanesque Revival main building still stands, offering a glimpse into its history.

2.9 km away

The Glebe

Shopping & districts

The Glebe

The Glebe is a residential neighborhood south of downtown Ottawa, part of Capital Ward. It's a great place to stroll along quiet streets and take in the local atmosphere.

3.3 km away