Go plogging in Chapman Hills

On weekdays, I like to stay around Ottawa for my hikes: it feels more accessible and less of an expedition. Besides, I'm discovering so many spots around my own home, that it's given me an hankering for more! Chapman Hills Conservation Area is not very big: it has a long winding boardwalk which makes a 1.5 kilometre-loop along the Rideau River. A lot of attention has been paid to make it an educational and pleasant walk. There are signs along the way explaining the fauna and flora, as well as the historical significance of the Rideau waterway. There are benches along the shore, a pick-nick area, and the boardwalk must be lovely in the summer (I didn't see it much, covered as it was by snow on this bright March day).

Despite all these lovely features, and truly beautiful vistas, it's not a place that I will return to often. It stands near a old highway and at the intersection of a major artery, linking the suburbs to the city. While in the summer the trees probably drown out some of traffic's noise, in the winter there is no escaping it. I could barely make out the sounds of the birds. There are also houses and box stores that have been constructed all around; one definitely does not escape the city. I also noticed that dog owners didn't pick up after their pets... I'm hoping I simply arrived after just one irresponsible person. Finally, with the roadways and bridge just above, I noticed trash had been blown onto the site. It did, however, give me the opportunity to go plogging! (Plogging is simply a fancy word for picking up litter.) Overall, it is a lovely space for the nearby residents to have, but I have other trails closer to my house that I enjoy more.

Plogging tips:

1. Bring a garbage bag with you just in case. I didn't have any so I was happy to have exterior pockets in my knapsack that I could use, and there are garbage cans near the parking lot at the site. I'll be better prepared for next time.

2. Wear gloves. This is easy in the winter but a good reminder for the summer: you want to protect yourself as much as nature.

3. Be an eco-warrior! Too much care goes into preserving various areas not to give a helping hand.