Gatineau Park comprises a triangle of forested hills and limpid lakes within sight of the confines of Ottawa, the capital of Canada. Even though Ottawa’s urban sprawl can be made out from some of the park’s vantage points, you can spend a peaceful interlude by a quiet lake and not see a soul.

Some 50 lakes are found in the park home to 40 species of fish, especially bass, yellow perch, and trout. Substantial populations of beaver and of white-tailed deer live in the park as well.

Gatineau counts almost 7.5 million of visitors annually. Most people come in summer, when long lines may form at the entrance gates. After winter, the park comes alive with the calls of migrating birds and other animals raising their young.