Stony Swamp
The most ecologically diverse sector of Ottawa's NCC Greenbelt, with over 40 km of trails through wetlands, forests, beaver ponds, and an abandoned quarry. Features the popular Jack Pine Trail with boardwalks and the off-leash Bruce Pit dog area. Free admission and parking.
Features
About Stony Swamp
Stony Swamp is the largest and most trail-rich sector of Ottawa's National Capital Commission (NCC) Greenbelt, with over 40 kilometres of trails winding through woodlands, wetlands, beaver ponds, and an abandoned quarry with unusual geology. It's the most ecologically diverse protected area in the Ottawa Valley, home to 251 regionally rare bird species including 17 species at risk.
The conservation area surrounds the Bells Corners community in Ottawa's west end and is managed by the NCC.
Popular Trails
| Trail | Distance | Access | Dogs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jack Pine Trail | 3.1 km | P9 (Moodie Dr) | No dogs |
| Sarsaparilla Trail | 0.9 km | P7 | No dogs |
| Lime Kiln Trail | 2.1 km | P10 | On-leash (Apr 15–Nov 30) |
| Old Quarry Trail | 3.1 km | P5 | No dogs |
| Beaver Trail | 1.2 km | P8 | No dogs |
| Trail 26 | 3.8 km | P9 or P11 | On-leash (Apr 15–Nov 30) |
| Trail 27 | 5.3 km | P13 | On-leash (Apr 15–Nov 30) |
Jack Pine Trail
The most popular trail, accessed from parking lot P9 on Moodie Drive. A 3.1 km loop with extensive boardwalks through wetlands and jack pine forest. Easy difficulty, well-maintained.
Sarsaparilla Trail
A short 0.9 km wetland loop at P7 — great for a quick nature walk or birding outing. Boardwalk sections through the marsh.
Old Quarry Trail
Features an abandoned quarry with exposed rock faces and interesting geological formations. A self-guided geology tour is available from the NCC.
Bruce Pit
Accessed from P12, Bruce Pit is Ottawa's most popular off-leash dog area — a former gravel pit with open space and wooded trails. Dogs welcome year-round without leash.
Wildlife
- Birds: 251 regionally rare species including the northern goshawk (species at risk)
- Mammals: Beaver, white-tailed deer, northern flying squirrel
- Other: Diverse reptiles, amphibians, and waterfowl around the beaver ponds
Winter Activities
Many trails are suitable for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter. The trails are not groomed by the NCC but are used regularly by winter enthusiasts.
Facilities
- Free parking at lots P3 through P13 (year-round)
- Outhouses at P5, P7, P8, P9, P11, and P12
- Picnic area at P9
- No washroom buildings — outhouses only
Getting There
- By Car: Multiple access points along Moodie Drive, Hunt Club Road, and Richmond Road. All parking lots are free
- By Transit: Limited OC Transpo service to some access points
- By Bike: Accessible via local roads; trail surfaces are natural (not paved)
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Contact Us →Information may change. Please verify details on the official website before visiting.