The pathway was mostly the work of the National Capital Commission (NCC), a crown corporation created in 1959.

Close to Major's Hill Park, and by crossing the Rideau Canal where it meets the Ottawa River at the Ottawa locks, it continues adjacent to the river on the back side of Parliament Hill[6] and then near the War Museum in LeBreton Flats.

It continues to be popular in the winter, as the Rideau Canal is widely known as one of the longest skating rinks in the world, with 6 to 8 km of skatable surface on most days in January.

A multi-use trail continues on its east side past Mooney's Bay Park to Walkley Road.

From Billings Bridge, it continues south until it meets up with the Rideau Canal at the Hog's Back Falls.

The Champlain Lookout provides a good view of lands to the west of the city of Ottawa from a high elevation.

Despite the National Capital Region having a very low crime rate, attention has been given to safety on the pathway.

Trained volunteer patrollers cycle, in-line skate, or walk along Ottawa's recreational pathways to promote active living, improve safety and security, and to encourage courtesy among all users.

In 2003, Ardeth Wood disappeared from a pathway near Rockcliffe Parkway starting a large search effort, and resulting in a homicide conviction.