Capital Pathway, Bike path network in Ottawa-Gatineau, Canada
The Capital Pathway is a shared-use path network in Ottawa and Gatineau, running along rivers, through parks, and past city landmarks on both sides of the Ottawa River. The surface is mostly paved and wide enough to accommodate cyclists, inline skaters, and pedestrians at the same time.
The first sections of the pathway were developed by the National Capital Commission during the 1970s as part of a broader plan to improve non-motorized travel in the capital region. The network grew gradually over the following decades as new segments were added on both sides of the river.
The Capital Pathway links neighborhoods on both sides of the Ottawa River, so it brings together people from two provinces in one shared space. Along the route, it is common to see commuters, joggers, and families side by side on the same path.
Some sections of the pathway are groomed for cross-country skiing or snow biking in winter, so conditions change depending on the season. Using the bridges and intersections as landmarks helps with orientation, since the network covers a large area across two cities.
The section of the pathway that runs alongside the Rideau Canal passes what becomes one of the world's longest natural ice surfaces in winter. In January and February, commuters and visitors skate along that stretch rather than cycling or walking it.
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