Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is surrounded by a mix of historic and abandoned places that offer fascinating glimpses into the past. From eerie ghost towns to long-forgotten military installations, these abandoned locations are perfect for urban explorers looking to discover hidden gems. Here are 10 of the most intriguing abandoned places near Ottawa, where time seems to have stood still.
1. Carbide Willson Ruins (Gatineau Park, Quebec)
Located just 40 minutes from Ottawa in Gatineau Park, the Carbide Willson Ruins are the remains of a once-thriving fertilizer plant owned by Thomas “Carbide” Willson in the early 1900s. The stone walls of the factory and the surrounding wilderness create an enchanting yet eerie atmosphere. The ruins are accessible via a scenic hike, making them a favorite destination for both history buffs and nature lovers.
2. Lac Philippe Ghost Cabins (Gatineau Park, Quebec)
In the heart of Gatineau Park, the Lac Philippe Ghost Cabins are remnants of abandoned cottages scattered throughout the forest. These rustic cabins were once summer homes but have been left to decay for decades. The crumbling structures, overtaken by nature, provide a haunting look at life in a bygone era and are popular among urban explorers looking for hidden spots.
3. Prince of Wales Fortifications (Ottawa, Ontario)
Located along the Ottawa River, the Prince of Wales Fortifications are remnants of a 19th-century military defense installation. Though much of the fort has deteriorated, portions of the stone walls and embankments remain visible, providing an interesting glimpse into the region’s military history. The site is easily accessible and offers a quiet, reflective spot for explorers and history enthusiasts.
4. The Ghost Town of Balaclava (Balaclava, Ontario)
About an hour and a half west of Ottawa, Balaclava is a semi-abandoned ghost town that was once home to a bustling sawmill. Today, only a few buildings remain, including the old mill, general store, and homes, all slowly decaying in the picturesque countryside. The quiet, deserted streets and the aging wooden structures give the town a ghostly charm.
5. CFS Carp (Diefenbunker) (Carp, Ontario)
While not fully abandoned, CFS Carp, commonly known as the Diefenbunker, is a Cold War-era underground bunker that was once intended to protect Canadian government officials in case of a nuclear attack. The massive underground complex was decommissioned in 1994 and now operates as a museum. Though preserved, it retains an eerie atmosphere with its abandoned hallways and rooms that evoke the tension of the Cold War.
6. Almonte Flour Mill (Almonte, Ontario)
The Almonte Flour Mill, located about 45 minutes from Ottawa, was once a major flour-producing facility along the Mississippi River. The abandoned stone building is now overgrown with vegetation, and the decaying wooden beams and rusting machinery can still be seen inside. Though access is limited, the exterior offers a fascinating glimpse into Ontario’s industrial history.
7. Rockland Psychiatric Hospital (Rockland, Ontario)
Just 30 minutes from Ottawa, the Rockland Psychiatric Hospital was once a key mental health facility in Eastern Ontario. Abandoned for decades, the crumbling building has gained a reputation as a haunted spot due to its eerie hallways and decaying rooms. Though officially off-limits, the site continues to attract urban explorers intrigued by its dark history.
8. Grand Trunk Railway Station (South March, Ontario)
Located near the rural community of South March, about 30 minutes from Ottawa, the Grand Trunk Railway Station is an abandoned relic of the early 20th century. The old wooden station, long since abandoned, is now overgrown and falling apart. The building offers a nostalgic look at the railway history that once connected remote communities in Ontario.
9. Abandoned Radar Station (Dunrobin, Ontario)
About 40 minutes from Ottawa, near Dunrobin, lies the ruins of an abandoned Cold War radar station. Originally part of Canada’s radar defense network, the site has been left to decay since it was decommissioned. Only a few concrete structures and foundations remain, but the location provides a fascinating look into Canada’s Cold War history.
10. The Abandoned Railway Bridge (Smiths Falls, Ontario)
Located an hour south of Ottawa, Smiths Falls is home to an abandoned railway bridge that crosses the Rideau River. No longer in use, the bridge has fallen into disrepair, with rusted metal beams and overgrown tracks. It offers an atmospheric spot for photographers and explorers alike, who are drawn to the forgotten history of the town's railway past.
Conclusion
The areas surrounding Ottawa are filled with abandoned places that offer a mix of history, mystery, and exploration. From decaying military installations to forgotten industrial buildings and ghost towns, these sites provide a unique look at the region’s past. As always, it’s important to prioritize safety and respect property laws when exploring abandoned locations, as many are off-limits or hazardous. For those who do so responsibly, these places offer an unforgettable glimpse into Ontario’s hidden history.
