The Cultural Trail celebrates its 10th anniversary with a new route open year-round

Jude Osmond

The Cultural Trail has been a popular attraction in Gatineau for the past 10 years, drawing thousands of visitors annually. In collaboration with Vision Centre-Ville and Tourisme Outaouais, the city of Gatineau has created a scenic 2 km walking route featuring over 40 public art pieces, with 24 new to the trail.

The route is centred around Old Hull, with the first piece of artwork located at the Canadian Museum of History.

For the first time in its history, the trail is now open year-round for everyone to visit. “This will give us the entire year to appreciate the magnificent creations of local and international artists,” says Isabelle N. Miron, chair of the Arts, Culture, Literature and Heritage Commission and municipal councillor for the Orée-du-Parc district.

The trail was unveiled on Wednesday, June 17, at Place Laval by the City of Gatineau, where all the artists gathered to discuss their work and enjoy the program announcement. Two distinct walking routes are proposed: one features sculptures and the other murals.

“I am proud that the Government of Quebec is a partner in this success, through the Cultural Development agreement concluded with the city,” said Mathieu Lacombe, Minister of Culture and Communications.

Some of the artwork includes: Kinzu rêve encore by Gabrielle Laïla Tittley, La maison allumette by the duo L'abricot (Julien Boisseau and Catherine Ouellet Cummings), Allumettières by Renaud Jobin Delaquis, and many more.

Free guided tours are offered from June 20 to August 29, on Saturdays at 10 am and Wednesdays at 5 pm. Starting in front of the Canadian Museum of History, the walks lead participants down a beautiful, aesthetic path into Old Hull, with different artworks displayed along the route.

This public art project highlights important themes in culture, tourism, and e-commerce, encouraging residents and tourists alike to explore the picturesque Old Hull area, take in the diverse artistic offerings and experience the vibrant local shops.