Discover the woodlands of Pinhey Forest

Maps and Publications

National Capital Greenbelt All Seasons Trail Map (2.02 MB)

This Ottawa conservation area was created in 1948 when Mr. Pinhey donated the land to the NCC to demonstrate forest conservation practices. The NCC maintains different woodlands here, as well as the rare sand dunes they grow on. The low Red Maple forest supports rich plant life and offers shelter for many migratory and resident birds.

Sand Dunes at Pinhey Forest

The Pinhey forest was established on rare post-glacial sand dunes. This 10,000-year-old sand dune ecosystem dates from the last ice age. Several moths, butterflies and beetles live in the sand dunes and are at risk of becoming extinct in the region. The sand dunes at Pinhey Forest are the subject of the Ottawa Sand Dune Restoration Project.

Things to Do in Pinhey Forest

The forest has 6.4 kilometres of trails that are used for hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Facilities

Washrooms	There is an outhouse by trail 32 at the P15 parking lot.
Parking	Free, year-round parking is available at the P14 and P15 parking lots.
Picnic Areas	There is an unsheltered picnic area by trails 32 and 33.
Universal Accessibility	Trails 30 and 31 are universally accessible.

For more information see the Greenbelt’s visitor information.