Staying Active in the Valley
The Petawawa-Pembroke corridor is a community that moves. The Emerald Necklace Trail system runs 16 kilometres through Petawawa, past wetlands where you can spot white-tailed deer and red foxes on a morning walk. The Kiwanis Walkway follows the Ottawa River through Pembroke. And between CFB Petawawa's recreation facilities and the programming run by both municipal recreation departments, there are organized activities for every age and interest level running year-round.
The military community at CFB Petawawa keeps things interesting. With families rotating through from across the country on two- and three-year postings, there is a constant influx of people looking for ways to connect. Dance classes, fitness groups, and community sports leagues are how many newcomers find their footing here. The base's Recreation Complex at 30 Festubert Boulevard runs fitness programs including strength training, HIIT sessions, and low-impact classes, with punch cards available at $40 for four sessions.
For families, the combination of organized programs and accessible outdoor space makes this area particularly liveable. The trails, rivers, and parks around Petawawa provide free recreation year-round, while the structured kids' programs in both Petawawa and Pembroke give children focused instruction in everything from creative dance to competitive swimming.
