North Ottawa Dunes Lower Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features Lake · Views

Don't let the shorter distance of this run fool you as the nicely-constructed staircases still pose a good workout. That said, ask anyone who has tried to trudge up loose sand and you'll quickly understand the advantage to staircases in addition to their help with dune erosion.

From the Coast Guard Park parking area, head west on the wide pathway above N Shore Rd and the parallel paved bike path. Pass Intersection 1 through the woods and take a left at Intersection 2 to head south, continuing up to Intersection 19. Turn left (southwest) for the final climb. Around 0.75 miles from the start, the run reaches the high point for some views out toward the lake.

At this point, you'll arrive at the boardwalk and staircase section to descend toward North Beach Park. After enjoying some time at the shore, head back up the staircase to the right (further south) looping around the other side of the sandy slope you came down. Look for the Viewpoint platform around 1.1 miles from the start for a scenic resting point.

Finally, loop back to Intersection 20 to retrace your steps back to the start.