OTTAWA – With international travel limited right now, we have all had to look for different ways to enjoy a vacation and a bit of tourism.

“Many people have turned to bike rides, runs or walks to satisfy their urge for discovery, get out of their daily ruts, and take a break from their computers,” the Ottawa Public Library (OPL) released in a statement today (Aug. 19). “And what could be healthier than clearing your mind with a nature hike?”

The OPL has been thinking along the same lines.

“We have organized a series of information sessions on hiking to help you get pumped and prepared,” the OPL said. “Attendees will learn about how to stay safe outdoors, find out about tools for navigation, and get plenty of pro tips from several seasoned hikers.”

Get your boots and back-pack ready for a vivifying outdoor ramble – and join in these events: 

Hiking Basics, in English, and Les bases de la randonnée, in French, will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 17 and 24, respectively. The two sessions, jointly organized with the Ottawa Club – Rideau Trail Association, will give you an introductory overview of everything you need to do for safe hiking. They’ll teach the ABCs of navigation, what supplies to bring and some ideas for making a hike accessible for everybody.

Hiking in and around Ottawa (in English only) will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 1. We’re lucky enough to have Laura Byrne Paquet, well‑known local tourism writer and the author of Ottawa Road Trip, leading the session. She’ll teach you where to find great trails, paths and destinations for walks, short hikes and longer excursions.  

You can add to the adventure by exploring the Library’s wide range of books, stories, and travel accounts about hiking destinations near and far. Check out the Collection for ideas for your next hike.  

“This is the perfect season to get away from it all and out into the woods and landscapes of ty of the beautiful National Capital Region,” the OPL said. “For more info on our hiking series, check out BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca.”