Fall is a magical season for hiking in the Laurentians. A blaze of colour sweeps across the region’s forests, making for a breathtaking spectacle of nature. The trails are geared towards all levels and take hikers through a variety of terrain, from mountain forests to tranquil lakeshores. The fresh, invigorating fall air makes it easier to enjoy the outdoors, not to mention the blissful sound of the leaves crunching under your feet as your hike. Seasoned hikers and casual strollers alike, the Laurentians have a multitude of trails to explore and discover!
Exceptional Viewpoints
During a hike, there’s nothing quite like a breathtaking view to reward your efforts! There are amazing discoveries in store at Parc régional Montagne du Diable in Ferme-Neuve, with its plethora of scenic lookouts along 80 km of hiking trails. A mere stone’s throw from Relais de la Montagne du Diable is a 21-metre-high lookout tower where you can gaze in wonder at the vast expanse of the Upper Laurentians. Discover one of the region’s highest peaks by exploring Mont Kaaikop’s hiking trails at L’Interval, coopérative de solidarité de plein air in Sainte-Lucie-des-Laurentides. In the heart of an ancient forest, explore 30 km of trails and fall under the spell of their stunning views. For its part, the possibilities are endless at Parc national du Mont-Tremblant, with its immense territory. Take the Roche or Corniche trail to access a breathtaking view of Monroe Lake and the surrounding mountains. Lastly, the Mont Condor and Mont King loops in Parc régional Val-David-Val-Morin have seven scenic lookouts over a total of 6.9 km— enough to delight lovers of idyllic fall landscapes!
A Walk With the Family to Admire the Colours
Fall is the perfect time for a fun family outing to make the most of the beautiful scenery! In Mont-Tremblant, Domaine Saint-Bernard invites you to discover the beauty and tranquility of the Laurentians. Walking trails wind through fields, lakes, and rivers, offering scenic viewpoints and even the opportunity to feed the birds straight from your hands! Meanwhile, Saint-Jérôme’s Parc régional de la Rivière-du-Nord has adapted its trails for the whole family. Come and admire the Wilson falls, and take a break next to the obstacle course where your kids can burn off some energy. Also, make sure to check out the Sentier des cimes Laurentides in Mont-Blanc to admire the colours from the top of the panoramic tower! Easily accessible by wheelchair or with a stroller, the whole family can soak in the fall spectacle and capture the moment with a picture or two. Lastly, the Sommet Saint-Sauveur en couleurs festival is an opportunity to enjoy some hiking and the myriad package deals available, including the chairlift, Parc F.U.N., and more. Hit the trails, enjoy the fall colors, and get the whole family outdoors and active!
Flora and Fauna Discovery
Nature lovers particularly enjoy the diverse plants and wildlife in the Laurentians. Parc Éco Laurentides in Mont-Blanc has 10 maintained trails where you can hike in peace and quiet while discovering local plants and wildlife. Be sure not to miss the beaver dam, which you can see from the Tour-du-Lac trail, and enjoy the superb view of Cordon Lake! Next, head to Parc régional Kiamika in Rivière-Rouge and immerse yourself in an unspoiled wilderness. With its six trails varying in length and difficulty, you’ll have the chance to observe a multitude of species, both big and small, on land and in the water. The 21-km network at Plein Air Aventure La Minerve provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy a wonderful fall day of hiking in the outdoors. Make the most of the peace and quiet of nature to observe your surroundings! Lastly, the infrastructure at Parc écologique le Renouveau Rosaire-Sénécal in Nominingue encourages you to get in touch with your contemplative side, with its two buildings and their viewpoints, superb hut, and picnic area.
Where Can I Hike With My Dog?
Take your canine companion on your next nature outing. Now that the cooler weather is here, your dog will be thrilled to join you on the trail. Parc de la Rivière Doncaster in Sainte-Adèle is known for its magical riverside trails, waterfalls, and seasonally changing landscapes. The Calvaire d’Oka trail at Parc national d’Oka is also well worth the visit, ending with a scenic lookout over Deux Montagnes Lake! Immerse yourself in the heart of nature by exploring the hiking trails at Parc régional du Poisson Blanc in Notre-Dame-du-Laus. With its sandy beaches, clear waters, and commanding views of the lake’s many islands, you’re sure to fall under the spell of this unique region! Or, discover Parc nature du lac Beattie in Gore, where 20 km of forest trails make for the perfect outing for you and your pup, surrounded by the fall colours. Lastly, the Sentier historique Loken in Sainte-Anne-des-Lacs, once used by the region’s renowned ski clubs, is now the perfect place to enjoy some peace and quiet in nature. No matter where you are, make sure to keep your dog on a leash!
Breathe in the Crisp Fall Air
The forest is the perfect place for walkers of all ages to experience the magic of the fall colours. Come and explore the mountains at Avalanche culture plein air Saint-Adolphe-d’Howard, with over 35 km of trails to explore with the whole family. Make new and lasting memories, even with the family dog! Trail running has become increasing popular among hikers in recent years. Start your training at Parc du Domaine Vert in Mirabel with its easy and well-maintained trails. With lots of services close by, the park makes it easy to fit the outdoors into your routine! Further north, the Sainte-Marguerite-du-Lac-Masson and Estérel trail network has short trails geared towards walkers and runners of all levels, running along the outlet of Masson Lake and providing exceptional views. And, finally, for a quick stroll, make sure to stop at Parc John-H. Molson in Saint-Sauveur to stretch your legs. Admission is free and dogs are welcome!
Fall Scenery and Hiking for All
No matter your level, lace up your walking shoes and get out and enjoy the colours! Looking to immerse yourself in nature without straying too far from the city? The trails at Mirabel’s Parc régional éducatif Bois de Belle-Rivière are easily accessible! Listen for birdsong and enjoy the splendour of the changing fall colors. What’s more, a number of trails at Parc du Mont Loup-Garou in Sainte-Adèle lead to the mountain’s highest peak, located 498 m above sea level. The 4.5-km Loup-Garou trail, for example, takes you there by criss-crossing between lakes and forest. There’s also Camping et Centre de plein air Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, with over 40 km of family-friendly trails in a stunning fall setting. An unforgettable outing, even for younger hikers! Craving the fresh air of the Upper Laurentians? Centre de plein air Mont-Laurier has three hiking trails totalling 19 km. Once you’re there, try Nordic pole walking to get your whole body moving. Whether alone or with others, get set for some great discoveries!
For all tourism-related questions: [email protected] or call: 450 224-7007 | 1 800 561-6673.
