Mer Bleue Conservation Area

The 3,500-hectare conservation area contains a northern boreal landscape with a sphagnum bog, sand ridges, natural trails, and mixed forests.

The 7,700-year-old bog formed in an ancient Ottawa River channel after the retreat of the Champlain Sea following the last glacial period.

French-Canadian settlers named it Mer Bleue due to the bluish gases rising from decomposing peat visible during dawn and dusk hours.

A 1.2-kilometer boardwalk from parking lot P22 provides access to the bog, with additional trails spanning 20 kilometers for hiking and skiing.

The conservation area maintains the largest bog ecosystem in Canada's Capital Region, supporting rare plant species typically found in northern environments.

Location: Ottawa

Part of: Ottawa Greenbelt

Website: http://ccn-ncc.gc.ca/endroits-a-visiter/ceinture-de-verdure/mer-bleue

GPS coordinates: 45.40000,-75.50000

Latest update: May 10, 2025 20:55