Hidden deep in Gatineau Park are the remains of an old stone building that looks like something out of a movie set. Known as the Carbide Wilson Ruins, this spot has become a favorite hike for families because it mixes a short forest trail with a bit of mystery, a rushing waterfall, and walls covered in moss and vines. Kids love the sense of discovery when the ruins suddenly appear in the woods, and parents appreciate that it’s close to Ottawa yet feels completely different from the city.
The hike itself isn’t very long, but it does require a little planning. Parking is available right at the trailhead, though it isn’t free, you’ll need to pay a small hourly or daily fee. Once you’re set, the walk is an easy adventure that’s just the right mix of outdoors and history for families.
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
The Story Behind the Ruins
The ruins are all that remain of a curious project by Thomas “Carbide” Wilson, a Canadian inventor famous for discovering a way to make calcium carbide, which produces acetylene gas. In the early 1900s, Wilson was already successful in business and decided to build a summer retreat deep in the forest of Gatineau Park. His plan was ambitious: combine a home with a small hydroelectric plant powered by the nearby waterfall.
The concrete walls are all that remain of Thomas ‘Carbide’ Willson’s laboratory.
Unfortunately, things didn’t go quite as planned. The location was remote, the construction was difficult, and the plant never really produced the power Wilson had hoped for. After his death in 1915, the site was abandoned, and nature quickly took over. The roof collapsed, vines crept along the walls, and what was once a personal dream project slowly turned into the mysterious ruins visitors hike to today.
That sense of faded grandeur is what makes the place so fun for families. Kids get a real thrill from stumbling across what looks like a hidden castle in the woods, and parents can share the quirky story of an inventor whose big idea didn’t quite work out but left behind one of Gatineau Park’s most memorable landmarks.
Trail Details and What to Expect
The hike to the Carbide Wilson Ruins is short enough for most families but still feels like an adventure. The trail is about 3 km round trip and takes around an hour at a relaxed pace. It’s considered easy to moderate, with a few uneven spots, tree roots, and small hills that make it fun for kids who like to scramble a little. Strollers aren’t practical here, but school-age kids usually manage just fine.
Parking is available at P11 (O’Brien parking lot), which is right at the trailhead. Keep in mind that it isn’t free — fees are $2.75 per 30 minutes, up to a maximum of $15 per day. Payment is simple at the machines or by app, but it’s good to know ahead of time so you’re not caught off guard.
The trail winds through forest before arriving at the ruins, where you’ll find tall stone walls covered in moss, open windows with forest views, and the sound of rushing water from the nearby waterfall. Kids love exploring the nooks and crannies, and there are plenty of spots for family photos. Just keep in mind that the ruins aren’t fenced off, so it’s best to keep a close eye on little ones near the edges.
Tips for Families
- Best ages: School-age kids will get the most out of this hike since they can handle the uneven trail and enjoy exploring the ruins. Toddlers may need a carrier instead of a stroller.
- Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes. The trail can be muddy in spring and after rain, and the rocks near the ruins can be slippery.
- Timing: The trail is open year-round, but late spring to fall is the most popular time to visit. Arrive earlier in the day or on weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Safety: The ruins are open and not fenced off, so keep a close watch on kids. There are drops and edges where little explorers could wander too far.
- Facilities: There are no washrooms, water fountains, or food services at the site. Bring snacks, water, and anything you might need for the kids.
- Parking: Remember to budget for parking — $2.75 per 30 minutes, up to $15 for the day.
Our Take: Are the Carbide Wilson Ruins Worth It for Families?
We think they are. The hike to the Carbide Wilson Ruins is the perfect mix of outdoors and discovery. It’s not too long, which makes it manageable for families, but it still feels like a real adventure with a waterfall, forest trails, and crumbling stone walls that spark kids’ imaginations.
Our kids loved exploring the ruins and listening to the story of the inventor behind them. For parents, the trail is an easy way to enjoy a bit of Gatineau Park without committing to a full day hike, and the parking is straightforward even if it does come with a small fee.
If you’re visiting Ottawa or Gatineau and want a family activity that feels different from museums and city sights, this is a great choice. Bring good shoes, a snack, and a sense of adventure, and you’ll leave with plenty of photos and a memory that feels like you discovered a hidden castle in the woods.
Beaver Adventurous
Every journey is an adventure waiting to happen, so I dive in with a smile and an open mind. From spontaneous road trips to carefully planned escapes, I’m here for the memories, the mishaps, and everything in between!
