Whilst visiting our friends Al & Gini in Canada, we discovered the existence of the Rideau Trail: a long distance trail from Kingston to Ottawa. The trail is 300km in length and was created in the early 1970’s. I find the story of its creation quite interesting, especially the enthusiasm of the student volunteers turning a 5 year planning exercise into a 3 month frenzy.
Originally the trail was planned to be constructed by volunteers over a period of five years. However, in March of 1971 a group of university students heard of the plans and proposed the building of the complete trail during one summer with the support of an Opportunities for Youth grant. Their proposal was approved by both the Rideau Trail Association and the federal government. Routes and Negotiation committees were quickly set up in Ottawa, Smiths Falls and Kingston. In mid-May the 27 member student group began construction of the trail, and the Routes and Negotiation committees did their best to keep ahead of them. By June, enough trail had already been built to permit an inaugural hike in the Gould Lake Conservation Area 30 km. North of Kingston; by the end of August, a continuous trail existed from Kingston to Ottawa. History of the Rideau Trail
We by no means had time to do the whole thing, but wanted to do a short section, so headed out with Al & Gini for the last few miles heading into Ottawa. The scenery along the river was very interesting, including sculptures made from balanced rocks art by John Félice Ceprano. The walk concludes dramatically with the Quebec on the opposite bank including the Museum of Civilisation, whilst the Parliament building dominates the Ontario shore.