"Take a Scenic Drive: Ottawa to Gatineau and Back"

As two beautiful and cultural places in Canada, there are plenty of reasons to travel between Ottawa, Ontario, and Gatineau, Quebec. But whether you are planning a day trip, a weekend getaway, or your daily commute, it’s important to know the best routes and how long it will take you to get there. With peak traffic times, bridge closures, and construction work, it can be tricky to predict the drive time. So let’s look at some of the fastest and slowest routes, their distances, and the time it takes to drive them.

The Fastest Route

The fastest and most direct route from downtown Ottawa to Gatineau is via the Alexandra Bridge. This route is only 1.8 kilometers long and takes about 5 minutes in good traffic conditions. This route is excellent for commuters or those who are looking to travel between the two cities quickly.

The Scenic Route

For those who are not in a hurry and in the mood for a drive with a view, take a scenic route that may take a little longer, but it’s worth it. One of the most famous scenic routes is through the Champlain Bridge, which takes about 10-15 minutes. This drive covers a distance of 7.9 kilometers and offers magnificent views of the Ottawa River and Parliament Hill.

The Slowest Route

The slowest route to Gatineau is via the Macdonald-Cartier Bridge, also known as the interprovincial bridge or the five-span bridge. This route can take up to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Despite the slower drive time, it’s worth taking this route because of the stunning views of the river and the city, especially at night.

Traffic Patterns

Peak traffic time in Ottawa and Gatineau is between 6:00 am and 9:00 am for commuters heading from Gatineau to Ottawa, and between 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm for commuters heading from Ottawa to Gatineau. During peak hours, it’s better to expect a longer drive. At other hours, especially during off-peak times, the drive would be much quicker. For example, during weekend mornings, the drive could take as little as 5 minutes.

Now that you know the fastest and slowest routes and the traffic patterns, plan your drive with confidence. There are different routes to take depending on your need for speed or mood for a scenic drive. With a little preparation, your drive between Ottawa and Gatineau will be a smooth ride.