The Welcoming Committee

Sun. 18 February:  The Welcoming Committee

The foot of the Rideau Canal:  a grand start/end for the Rideau Trail

Note: click on pictures for full size view.

There was a welcoming committee at the end of today’s hike. 

And for the handful of people who were completing their winter end-to-ends, there was plenty to celebrate.  Over three winters (during the months of January and February) they have travelled 328 km along the Rideau Trail from Kingston to Ottawa.  This hiker has about a hundred kilometres left to do yet, before being able to claim victory.  Perhaps next year?

What a sensational way to finish off this year’s challenge.  The Ottawa River parks were full of cross-country skiers and snow-shoers, enjoying the winter sunshine and the perfectly groomed trails beside the Ottawa River.   

Our determined group of hikers made our steady way along today’s thirteen kilometre route.  We had started at the foot of the Rideau Canal, a spectacular start – or end – to any long distance trail, beneath the cliffs of Parliament Hill.  By the end of the walk we had reached Britannia Park and our grand welcome!

Ottawa River and Parliament Hill

Historical Richmond Landing

Voyageur sculpture beside War Museum

Trail full of people enjoying the winter sunshine

Our determined group

Welcoming the victors