October Hiking

For me, October is the best month for hiking around Ottawa. The stifling humidity of the summer is a distant memory, even the most hardy mosquitoes have succumbed to the cooler temperatures, and the days, while much shorter, crackle with a crisp freshness that invigorates both mind and body.

But best of all, by October the millions of hardwood trees that carpet the hills of the surrounding Canadian Shield and Laurentian Highlands go through their annual transformation from the rich green of summer to the colourful quilt of yellow, orange, and red of fall. This natural tapestry generates wonder and curiousity from even those who never venture into the forest at any other time of the year, and local trails, especially in nearby Gatineau Park, throng with walkers in numbers that are difficult to believe.

Every year, the National Capital Commission hosts the "Fall Rapsody", a celebration of the magic of this remarkable natural transpformation. In 2009, this runs from October 2-18, and includes interpretive events and guided walks. But whether you brave the crowds in Gatineau Park, or venture elsewhere into the equally vibrant, but less well-travelled countryside, October is the month to be on the trails.