Ottawa Half Marathon presented by Desjardins

This is one of the anchor races of Ottawa Race Weekend, with the scale and support of a major Canadian road event. The cross-river route gives runners a useful mix of capital landmarks, green space, and sustained crowd energy.

The route moves through central Ottawa, crosses into Gatineau, and returns toward the downtown finish. Bridges and gradual city rollers add texture, but the course remains approachable when runners stay patient through the early congestion.

Late May can range from crisp and calm to warm, humid, or windy. The open bridges amplify wind, while sunny conditions can make the second half feel much warmer than the start.