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Lac Deschênes

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Lac Deschênes

Lac Deschênes

Lac Deschênes is a 44-kilometer expansion of the Ottawa River that forms the natural border between Ontario and Quebec. Located north of Ottawa and south of Gatineau, it is primarily visited by those seeking riverbank views and outdoor space for walking or observing the water.

Getting There

The lake is accessible from Ottawa's city centre via car or local transit. Depending on which section of the shoreline you visit, the drive typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes.

Duration of Visit

Visitors generally spend between 1 and 3 hours here, depending on whether they are stopping for a short walk along the bank or spending a longer afternoon outdoors.

When to Visit

The area is most accessible during the spring, summer, and autumn. In winter, the lake freezes over. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the most consistent light for viewing the landscape. While popular during summer weekends, it does not typically reach the congestion levels of the downtown core.

Nearby Points of Interest

You can combine a visit to the lake with other nearby locations in the region:

  • Andrew Haydon Park (3.2km)
  • Nepean (8km)
  • Tunney's Pasture (9.8km)
  • Hintonburg (10.5km)

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 Lac Deschênes

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

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Good to visit alongside

Andrew Haydon Park

Parks & gardens

Andrew Haydon Park

This park sits along the Ottawa River and is a pleasant spot for a stroll or relaxing outdoors. Named after a former mayor of Nepean, it was designed with input from landscape architect Donald Graham.

3.2 km away
Nepean

Shopping & districts

Nepean

A district west of downtown Ottawa that was an independent city before merging into Ottawa in 2001. It's a good place to experience everyday local life up close.

8.0 km away
Tunney's Pasture

Shopping & districts

Tunney's Pasture

Located in Ottawa, this area is home to a cluster of Canadian federal government office buildings. Walking past the rows of government buildings, you can sense the atmosphere of an administrative hub in the heart of the city.

9.8 km away
Hintonburg

Shopping & districts

Hintonburg

A neighborhood west of downtown Ottawa, where distinctive shops and cafés line Wellington Street West. With Parkdale Public Market nearby, it's a great spot to stroll through one of the city's trendiest areas.

10.5 km away
Lemieux Island

Nature

Lemieux Island

This small island sits in the middle of the Ottawa River, crossed by a bridge linking Gatineau and Ottawa. Though home to a water treatment plant, it's still a pleasant spot for a riverside stroll.

10.7 km away
Chief William Commanda Bridge

Views & landmarks

Chief William Commanda Bridge

A pedestrian and cycling bridge spanning the Ottawa River between Ottawa and Gatineau, originally built as a railway bridge. Crossing it offers views of both riverbanks.

11.0 km away