Ottawa 
Surrounded by thousands of wild orchids, Purdon Conservation Area near Ottawa offers a rare and striking natural sight. Each Spring, some 16,000-18,000 Orchids blossom, inviting guests to explore this unique wetland, home to the large Showy Lady Slipper Orchids.
Photo Credit: Mississippi Valley Conservation Area
Purdon Conservation Area is open daily from dawn to dusk between Victoria Day and Thanksgiving, offering visitors access to a unique fen wetland and uplands forest trail.
The highlight of the area is Canada’s largest colony of Showy Lady’s Slipper orchids, typically in bloom during June. A site of such size is rare to come by in Canada, and it is regarded as the largest in the country.
Photo Credit: Mississippi Valley Conservation Area
A fully accessible boardwalk allows for close viewing of the orchids in their natural habitat, while a 1.7 km trail through upland forest leads to a scenic lookout.
The site features a picnic area, fee-free parking, a wheelchair-accessible outhouse, and allows leashed dogs.
You may like: Flower & Blossom Festivals of Ontario. If you enjoy wild orchids, you may also want to visit Bruce Peninsula National Park.
25 Outdoor Adventures in Ottawa Valley
PLAN YOUR TRIP – Purdon Conservation Area
WHEN TO GO: To see orchids, ~ 3 weeks in June. Full Bloom usually occurs by mid-to-late June.
As of June 4, 2026, the orchids have reached an average height of 10 inches but have not yet begun to bloom. This follows a delayed growing season caused by a cooler-than-usual spring.
The Purdon Conservatory opens on Victoria Day Weekend and remains open, 7 days a week from dawn to dusk until Thanksgiving weekend, early October.
WHERE: Purdon Conservation Area (Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority), Lanark County.
It is approximately 1 1/2 hours from Ottawa and 3 hours from Toronto.
HOW MUCH:
Admission to Purdon Conservation Area is by donation.
WHO:
An excellent family day trip for people of all ages, including young families. It is also worth noting that the entire trail is wheelchair accessible. Dogs are also welcome for a whole family day out!
THINGS TO NOTE:
As is the case with nature, it is difficult to say when the area is in full bloom. Check Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority Facebook Page or the website for updates.
