11 Awesome things to do in Wakefield (Quebec)

Like many towns in the Outaouais region, Wakefield offers so many great things to do all year round. Situated off the shoreline of the Gatineau River at a short drive from Ottawa and Gatineau, Wakefield makes for a great day destination with plenty of great options for places to visit and activities to do for all ages. Here’s my list of 11 things to do in Wakefield (Quebec):

1. Parc Nature Éco-Odyssée

Éco-Odyssée must be one of my favourite activities to do in the entire Outaouais region. This family ran eco-touristic business offers a very unique activity which is great for people of all ages, that is a 6.4 km (3.97 mi.) water maze in which you must find your way out using a map and locating different objects and clues. You can complete this journey with a paddle boat, a canoe or a stand-up paddle boar if you are brave. Constructed in a marsh land, you don’t need to worry about the mosquitos because of the dragon flies and frogs.

Location: 52 Chemin Des Sources, Wakefield, QC J0X 3G0

2. Wakefield Covered Bridge

Built in 1915, this wooden covered bridge was the first bridge to connect both sides of the Gatineau River. Unfortunately, the bridge was set ablaze by arsonists in 1984. Luckily, thanks to the sheer efforts of local volunteers, government grants and multiple donations, the bridge was rebuilt in 1997 and officially reopened in 1998. Today, you can admire the impressive character and size of the covered bridge by walking across it and by relaxing on the shoreline next to it.

Location: 45 Chemin De Wakefield Heights, Wakefield, QC J0X 3G0

3. Hendrik Park & Fairbairn House Heritage Centre

Just beside the Wakefield Covered Bridge, you will find the Hendrick Park and the Fairbairn House Heritage Center. The Fairbairn House is one of the oldest houses in Wakefield dating back to 1860’. The House was moved in the 2000’ to its current site in order to ensure its protection. Here, can not only admire this historical dwelling and the adjacent barns, but you can also go on a short and enjoyable hike in the Hendrick Park. On the 1.8 km (1.12 mi.) loop, you will walk by a charming waterfall and enjoy the tranquility of the forest. View video down below for more information.

Location: 45 Chemin De Wakefield Heights, Wakefield, QC J0X 3G0

4. Wakefield hiking trails

Wakefield is not typically known for its hiking trails compared to towns like Chelsea. That being said, during your stay in Wakefield, I recommend you try on the multiple trails in the village. I suggest hiking the blue trail which departs from the MacLaren Cemetery and leads up a mountain and gives you great views of the surrounding area. This hike should note take you less than an hour to accomplish. You can also reach this viewpoint by climbing up the Ski Volage mountain.

5. Wakefield Mill Falls

This is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the entire Outaouais region. Why? Because it situated beside the Wakefield Mill Hotel and Spa which used to be a 19th-century flour mill. You can park for free nearby and take your time enjoying the waterfall.

Location: 60 Chemin Mill, Wakefield, QC

6. Walk along the old train tracks

A decade ago, a steam train would bring tourists and locals from Gatineau to Wakefield showcasing the natural beauty of the region. Unfortunately, due to landslides and cost of maintenance, the train took its last voyage in 2011 and was decommissioned soon after. Many artifacts of this train are still present today, such as the locomotive turntable, the train station which as been converted to a restaurant, the tracks themselves, and much more. You can stroll along the tracks on a nice warm day and enjoy the shoreline of the Gatineau River which it follows.

7. Enjoy the Gatineau River

Being that this town is situated off the shoreline of the Gatineau River, a massive body of fresh water that is 386 km (240 mi.) long and departs from the Baskatong Reservoir and flows into the Outaouais River. Since the river widens significantly in Wakefield, the current is much calmer and you can enjoy the nice summer weather by going for a paddle or a swim. If you wish to rent nautical equipment, I suggest checking out Expeditions Wakefield. Already have a paddle boar or a kayak? Check out my latest blog post on where you can paddle in and around Wakefield.

8. Visit the local bakery

Out of the 11 things to do in this charming town, we are getting to one of my favourites, that is to get some freshly made backed goods at the Wakefield Bakery. They offer such a good variety of delicious treats and fresh breads that you probably will buy too much! But is that really a bad thing? View video above for more information.

Location: 813 Chemin Riverside, Wakefield, QC J0X 3G0

9. Get some sweets at La Confieserie Wakefield

Just beside the bakery, you will discover La Confiserie Wakefield where you can purchase fantastic artisan chocolates. Two of my favourite items to get is the milk chocolate bars or the chocolate covered toffee. View video above for more information.

Location: 817 Chemin Riverside, Wakefield, QC J0X 3G0

10. Foody Haven!

When in Wakefield, I recommend you do some window shopping. Just like Chelsea, Wakefield as a few great little boutiques and specialty shops. For example, the Boutique Jamboree is a gift shop which offers during the holiday season tones of great Christmas decorations and gifts. There’s also the Khewa art gallery where you can purchase Indigenous arts and crafts.

11. Local shops

Finally, when in Wakefield, you must eat out at a local restaurant. Many restaurants are present on the main street and offer a wide variety of styles of meals. From typical Canadian food, to fancy dining, to vegetarian meals, you can always find something great to eat. Why not create your own self-guided food tour?