Brown's Inlet

Brown's Inlet is a natural water system in the Glebe neighborhood of Ottawa, consisting of two connected ponds that flow into the Rideau Canal. The ponds sit within the urban landscape and host local wildlife including amphibians, reptiles, and numerous bird species.

The waterway began as a small creek and transformed during the construction of the Rideau Canal in the 1800s. This development expanded the water body into the two-pond system that shapes the Glebe landscape today.

The inlet is a central feature of the Glebe neighborhood, where residents and visitors notice how parks and homes blend with the water in daily life.

The area is most accessible during warmer months when the shorelines and surrounding parks are fully walkable. Visiting in late afternoon hours offers the best chance to observe local wildlife and experience the inlet in quieter conditions.

The two ponds maintain their connection through an underground waterway that runs beneath the surrounding streets and structures. This hidden link allows water to circulate throughout the system and supports the health of the urban habitat.