The National Capital Commission (NCC) has officially opened a new swimming area at Dow’s Lake in Ottawa, marking the launch of a broader pilot project aimed at revitalizing public access to local waterways.
Credit: National Capital Commission
Swimming is now permitted at a newly installed recreational dock located at Queen Elizabeth Driveway and Lakeside Avenue. The site includes designated buoy-marked deep-water swim zones and will soon feature a separate swim lane for laps.
Per the news release, extensive water quality testing over the past year confirmed that conditions meet public health and safety standards. Ongoing testing results will be available through the Swim Guide app on the NCC’s website. Swimming will be unsupervised and suitable only for experienced swimmers, as the depth exceeds four metres, and only deep-water entry is available. There are no lifeguards on site.
In addition to the dock, the NCC is reintroducing its Summer Zone with a refreshed format. Operating Thursday through Sunday until Labour Day (September 1), the lakeside area will feature food and drink from Dominion City Brewing Co. and a yet-to-be-announced local food vendor. Hours of operation range from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends, with shorter hours on Sundays.
The recreational dock includes Muskoka chairs, bike racks, and a universally accessible washroom nearby. Located near Commissioners Park, the area is easily accessible by public transit, cycling lanes, and pedestrian paths. Paid parking is available at the Champagne lot on Carling Avenue.
NCC Summer Zone & Recreational Dock Swimming
Summer Zone: Relax by the lake at NCC’s Summer Zone, taking in scenic views and the lively, welcoming atmosphere along the Dow’s Lake waterfront, with drinks from Dominion City Brewing Co. and tasty offerings from an upcoming food vendor.
Hours: Thursday and Friday: 3 pm to 9 pm
Saturday: 11 am to 9 pm
Sunday: 11 am to 6 pm
Recreational dock:
A new recreational dock at Queen Elizabeth Driveway and Lakeside Avenue offers swimming, lounging, and non-motorized watercraft access. The universally accessible dock includes Muskoka chairs, bike racks, and a nearby portable washroom. Deep-water swimming is permitted in a designated area over 4 metres deep and is recommended for experienced swimmers, and there are no lifeguards.
Hours: Every day, weather and conditions permitting.