For columnist Chris Hunt, there’s no city like Ottawa — and no place like Hog’s Back Falls
Chris Hunt’s son Riley looks over a frozen Hog’s Back Falls. Photo Credit Angela Jacques
Boring. Pompous. Elitest. Bland.
I’ve lived in the Ottawa area my entire life and people’s opinion of it seems to run the gamut of negativity.
But if you spend enough time here, you’ll quickly realize Ottawa is a vibrant city, brimming with warmth and charm.
Art and history lovers, I’m sure, appreciate the excellent museums dotting the downtown core. Like a night out? The ByWard Market on a weekend is a lively and happening place. Fancy live music? The National Arts Centre is a revered venue, attracting top acts from around the world.
But for me, my go-to place has always been Hog’s Back Falls. I grew up a stone’s throw from it. My oldest brother used to tell me stories of people he knew who dove into the falls only to be sucked in at a certain spot and never seen again. He called it the Devil’s Hole.
When I was six or seven years old, my best friend and I biked to Hog’s Back, but decided that roughing it by a waterfall wasn’t fun as the experience was completely devoid of processed snacks.
As an adult with a young son though, I truly believe Hog’s Back Falls is a quiet jewel that many of us in Ottawa sit on.
In the summer, the roar of the falls is hypnotic. When my son was still a toddler we’d visit on lazy afternoons. We’d lean against the rail and listen to the thunderous water rumble through the sluice gates. On hot days, the spray from the falls would gently hit us, cooling us off.
Mooney’s Bay Beach is two seconds away and offers opportunities to frolic in the water and boasts one of the largest playgrounds in the region. The surrounding walking paths are home to various wildlife, all of which have become accustomed to the generous handouts of seeds and nuts from passersby. More than once I’ve sat on a park bench only to be surrounded by animals looking for treats. I felt like Snow White the first time I sat on a bench with a bag of unsalted peanuts. Where else in the world can you feel like a Disney princess while wearing shorts and sandals?
In the mood for a romantic evening? There is a lookout of sorts that offers a peaceful view of much of Ottawa.
During the fall, the foliage offers a brilliant tapestry of orange and red to herald in the change of season, and there are many perfect places to enjoy a picnic lunch.
When the temperature drops, the falls are even more majestic against an icy backdrop and the walking trails turn into a winter wonderland.
The best part of it all? It’s free, something I am sure we can all appreciate during these times of economic hardship.
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