This is a really nice run in the southern part of Ottawa, showcasing the Dominion Arboretum and the Experimental Farm Pathway. The Experimental Farm is an internationally acclaimed centre for agricultural research, surrounded by grain-filled fields, spectacular gardens and the arboretum. We’ve mapped a route of up to 13 km one-way to use as a guideline for a distance of your choice. Our thanks to Kassie Helm for this route suggestion!

Looking down to the Arboretum. Photo: Kassie Helm

Our mapped route starts at Lansdowne Park, where there’s a parking lot. The park is also site of a stadium that’s home to Ottawa’s CFL football team. Run through the park or along the Rideau Canal Western Pathway, then around Dow’s Lake. At the 3 km mark, you’ll enter the Dominion Arboretum — Canada’s oldest arboretum — featuring 10,000 plants. Do the ~2k loop, then access the Experimental Farm Pathway from the National Capital Commission Scenic Driveway. The paved pathway runs for 6.5 km southeast, ending at Woodroffe Ave. & Baseline Rd.

Shorter Option: Can just take the Experimental Farm Pathway. There’s a parking lot in the Arboretum.

Friend of Great Runs Kassie Helm with her son.

Alternative Route Back & Add-Ons: As a variation to an out and back, run through the Carleton University campus, which can be accessed from the southern part of the Arboretum. You can also access the Rideau River Eastern Pathway/Hog’s Back Park/Vincent Massey Park area.