Every weekend from May to October, the NCC reserves some of its parkways in Ottawa for active use. Whether you’re biking, walking, in-line skating, using a wheelchair, or pushing a stroller, this program is for you!

These car-free roads along the Ottawa River are a great way to experience the beauty of the National Capital Region in a fun, safe, and environmentally friendly way.

Schedule and locations

In 2023, the program will run from May 13 to October 9 on Saturdays, Sundays, and holiday Mondays.

Kichi Zībī Mīkan

Both westbound lanes of Kichi Zībī Mīkan, located on the south side of the Ottawa River just west of the downtown core, from Vimy Place to Carling Avenue (9 km).

  • Hours: 8 am to 4 pm*

* Active users: You must exit the parkway by 4 pm.
* Private vehicles: It can take our team up to one hour to safely clear the parkways. Access will be restored no later than 5 pm.

Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway

Both lanes of the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway, running along the south side of the Ottawa River, just east of the downtown core, between Aviation Parkway and St. Joseph Boulevard in Orléans (8 km).

  • Hours: 8 am to 4 pm*

** Active users: You must exit the parkway by 4 pm.
** Private vehicles: It can take our team up to one hour to safely clear the parkways. Access will be restored no later than 5 pm.

Good to know

  • The open roads are available to all active users, whether they’re on wheels or on foot. Please be respectful of others: ride at safe speeds, be predictable, and share the path.
  • While you’re on Kichi Zībī Mīkan, take a break at Remic Rapids Park to enjoy food and drinks at the NCC Bistro.

About the program

Since 1970, the NCC has hosted Sunday Bikedays, allowing cyclists to experience the Capital’s scenic parkways car-free.

Today, NCC Weekend Bikedays provide about 17 kilometres of parkways to thousands of people who enjoy seeing the Capital Region from a different perspective and in a fun and environmentally friendly way. The program has been replicated in many other cities around the globe.


We care about making active transportation enjoyable for all, by creating spaces that are fun, accessible, safe, and environmentally friendly.

Check out our other car-free parkway programs on Queen Elizabeth Driveway and in Gatineau Park.

Cookie Notice: Our website uses tracking technologies (cookies) to learn how our visitors interact with our site. This helps us to improve our services, and provide you with valuable content. Read our privacy policy.