Award: Most accessible!
Welcome to Chapman Mills Conservation Area: an urban oasis in the heart of South Ottawa, easily walkable for nearby Barrhaven and Riverside South communities and a short drive for tens of thousands more in the Ottawa South region.
It's our most accessible conservation area for so many reasons: urban location, access to the Rideau River, easy-to-use boardwalk trails, excellent seating options and free entry and parking.
Note: There is a steep slope near the main bridge that could be tricky for wheelchair users, so consider bringing a friend to help out.
The 23-acre conservation area is located off Prince of Wales Drive just north of the Vimy Memorial Bridge. It includes 1.5 kilometres of boardwalk trails that meander over bridges, under overhanging trees and through the quiet, grassy marshes that guard the river.
And this summer, Chapman became even more accessible thanks to its new dock, which is wider, has a gentler slope and includes edge guards to keep wheelchair users safe.
Benches are well-placed for some quiet reflection, fishing or bird watching.
Locals use the space for canoe launching, trail running, dog walking and family nature walks.
One frequent visitor recently called it "cottage life, five minutes from home."
So: how will you spend your time at Chapman Mills?
Details and directions here: https://www.rvca.ca/conservation-areas/no-fee-required/chapman-mills-ca.
