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| Outdoor
Adventure in the Laurentians of Quebec |
| Backpack,
Camp, Canoe, Cycle,
Climb,
Hike, Mountain Bike,
Raft, Kayak, WW
Paddle |
Backpacking
Mont
Tremblant Park
The park
has an extended hike in the form of the Longue Randonee Pedestre.
This 74km trail includes a loop in the Lac Monroe section, then
a long linear section leading to the Saint Donat entrance. Their
are several huts along the route which accommodate 16-20 people
and are spaced 10 to 20km apart. Keep in mind that even though
the huts provide shelter, you still have to carry all of your
other essentials. The backpack can be started from either end
and includes some excellent overlooks on route. This is a great
trail to take with a group of friends. The trail is used by backcountry
skiers in the winter. Have a look at Out-There's Mont
Tremblant Park feature for more information.
Devils
Mountain
(Mont Diable)
Intermediate/Advanced
There are 30km of trails and two separate campsites on the mountain.The
mountain is the second highest peak in the Laurentians at 783
m. The trail system is to be found just to the west of the town
of Ferme-Neuve, in the upper Laurentians north of Mont Laurier.
The campsites are maintained by the Friends
of the Mountain, which charges a fee for their use. Contact
them through their website for more information on the area. Shelters
are also available for rent in the winter for backcountry skiers
or snowshoers. To reach Ferme-Neuve from Montreal take the 15
(or the 13 to the 640 to the 15) north then continue on the 117
to Mont Laurier. Head north on the 309 to Ferme-Neuve.
P'tit
Train du Nord/Aerobic
Corridor
200km+ The
two trails are being interconnected to provide a loop from the
St. Sauveur/Morin Heights area to St. Jovite. These are certainly
not traditional hiking trails (they're main use is for cycling
in the summer and cross country skiing in the winter - the trail
is a converted railbed) but never-the-less, you do see backpackers
on route. With so many towns along the trails it's conceivable
that with careful planning, you could do the complete hike with
just a day pack, staying in B&B's on route.The Aerobic Corridor
is the more rural of the two trails, following through farmland,
forest and meadow. With the P'tit Train being extended south to
Laval (through the Lower Laurentians Linear Park),
a hearty soul could backpack from Montreal, to Mont Tremblant
and even on to Mont Laurier. The trails can be accessed at dozens
of points along the way, most of which have parking facilities.
Have a look at Out-There's P'tit Train
du Nord and Aerobic Corridor features
for more information.
Le
Canadianne/Fleur de Lys Trail
This is a
linear, 13km, trail that connects Saint Adolphe d'Howard to the
Parc des Campeur in Sainte Agathe. The trail has a hut along the
way for over nighting or you can do some wilderness camping. You'll
find front county camping at both ends, which would allow you
to put together an out and back if you don't have transportation
back to your starting point. To reach Saint Adolphe d'Howard from
Montreal take the 15 north (or the 13 to the 640 to the 15) and
exit at St. Sauveur. Follow the 364 to Morin Heights then take
the 329 north. To reach Sainte-Agathe from Montreal take the 15
north (or the 13 to the 640 to the 15) and exit at Sainte-Agathe.
For more information contact the Centres d'activites de Plein
Air (CAP) of Sainte
Adolphe d'Howard through the the town's website.
National
Trail
While often
confused with the Trans Canada Trail, this is an older initiative,
dedicated to backpackers, hikers, cross country/backcountry skiers
and the newly emerging snowshoe set. The footpath connects New
Brunswick and Ontario, while passing through some of the Quebec's
most beautiful areas including the Gatineaus, Papineau-Labelle,
Mont Tremblant Park, Jacques Cartier Park and the Traversée
de Charlevoix. The trail is accessible from a number of points
in the Laurentians, including Mont Tremblant Park. For more information
contact the National Trail
Association through their website and perhaps offer to contribute
physically or monetarily to ensure this dream is fully realized.
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Camping
Mont Tremblant Park
Mont Tremblant has hundreds of campsites (most of which are accessible
by car) in it's three sectors,
Le Diable (Lac Monroe) in the west, La Pimbina in the center region
and L'Assoption in the east. There are canoe campsites along both
the Diable and L'Assomption rivers and there are also some walk-in
sites in the park reserved for cyclists. There are of course sites
with services available if your planning to bring a pop-up or
RV. Many of the campsites are lakeside but you'll have to book
early on most weekends in the summer if you want to grab a piece
of the shoreline. Park activities in the summer are cycling (hybrid
or mountain bike), canoeing, hiking, backpacking and nature observation.
The park has an exceptional show of colours in the fall. Out-There's
Mont Tremblant Park feature provides
details on each campground, park access and much more.
Oka
Park
The park is
stone's throw from Montreal and is very popular in season. There
are hundreds of campsites, most of which are shaded and just a
short distance from the park's beautiful beach. La Refuge campground
has serviced sites if you drive a RV or have a trailer or pop-up.
Park activities in the summer include cycling (hybrid or mountain
bike, the park has a section of the paved Vagabond bike path within
its boundaries), sea kayaking, hiking, and nature observation.
Out-There's Oka Park feature provides details
on each campground, park access and more on activities and adventure.
Papineau
Labelle Wildlife Reserve (Réserve Faunique)
There are
two unserviced campgrounds in the reserve, in the south at Lac
Echo and in the north at Lac Joinville. Small groups which qualify
(contact the reserve for details) can make use of three small
tent sites (five placements) at Ernest, Marie-Lafance and Sourd
Lakes. There are canoe campsites on several lakes in the north
of the reserve with the main access through the Pie IX entrance.The
reserve is located north of the Ottawa River and just to the southeast
of Mont Laurier. It encompasses over 1,600 sq. km of wilderness.
The campsites at Lac Echo are next to the beach or just a short
walks distance. There are also huts and cabins available on a
rental basis. The reserve has over 12 entry points.To reach Lac
Echo the usual point of entry is Val des Bois, while the most
common entry point for Lac Joinville is from Pie IX. To reach
Val des Bois from Montreal head west on the 40 and take the split
towards Ottawa in Vaudreuil. After you enter Ontario take the
exit for Hawkesbury and continue through town, then over the Pearly
Bridge (which has been completely rebuilt) to pickup the 148 towards
Hull. Watch for Buckingham where you head north on the 309, which
will take you to the entrance. Alternatively you can take the
148 or the 50 (from the 15) to pick up (continue on) the 148 outside
Lachute. From Ottawa/Hull take the 50 from Hull to its terminus,
then follow the 148 to the 309 at Buckingham. To reach the Pie
IX entrance from Montreal take the 15 (or the 13 and the 640 to
the 15) north until it turns into the 117 north of Ste. Agathe.
Continue on a short distance passed L'Annociation, where you pick
up the 321 south which will take you into the reserve. This is
very much a wilderness area and most of the reserve has little
in the way of services but there are huts and cabins available
for non-campers. Most of the reserves roads are good, but not
paved. For more information have a look at the Sepaq
Website.
Please Note: Hunting is permitted in Quebec's wildlife reserves.
Rouge-Matawn Wildlife Reserve
(Réserve
Faunique)
The reserve is locate along the northern borders of Mont Tremblant
Park but unfortunately, you cannot currently reach the reserve
directly from the park. The reserve is a true wilderness area,
with little in the way of services and all of the camping is classified
as wilderness. Sites are distributed throughout the reserve. There
are also huts and cabins available on a rental basis. The
two main access points for the reserve are Macaza in the west,
and Saint-Micheal-des-Saint in the east. Macaza can be reached
from Montreal by taking the 15 (or the 13 to the 640 to the 15)
then the 117north, Saint-Micheal des Saints can be reached from
Montreal by following the 40 east towards Quebec City, then taking
the 31north into Joliette, where you head east to the 131 north.
Contact the reserve for more information through the Sepaq
Website.
Please Note: Hunting is permitted in Quebec's wildlife reserves.
Ski
Morin Heights
The hill has
a new and unique initiative with the recently developed cabin
and tent site area. With all of the outdoor activities in the
Morin Heights region, these facilities will probably be at a premium
as the word gets out. We'll being heading up there ourselves to
get a first hand look at the project sometime this summer. For
more information, including rates, have a look at the Ski
Morin Heights website.
For RV camping
and private campgrounds see Out-There's Laurentian
Accommodations section.
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Canoeing
Whitewater
enthusiasts have many options including the Diable, L'Assomption
and the world famous Rouge, along with the Maskinonge and several
other excellent rivers. For more leisurely paddlers you might
want to have a look at the lower section of the Diable in Mont
Tremblant Park or the Riviere du Nord, which cuts through the
heart of the Laurentian region. Canoe campers can take advantage
of the Rouge River, or sites withing Mont Tremblant Park, the
Rouge-Matawin and the Papineau Labelle Wildlife Reserve. Lake
paddlers have lots of options within Mont Tremblant Park, the
Wildlife Reserves and dozens of other lakes with public access
in the region.
Mont Tremblant Park
There are
six rivers and over four hundred lakes in the park. Many more
routes are planned for 2005 (we hear). Both the L'Assomption and
the Diable are best run in the spring, when the water is high
but of course a higher level of skill is also required at this
time of year.
L'Assomption
River canoe route
is 15km within the park and has rapids ranging from Class I to
IV, with portages available around the tougher rapids. The river
has four separate camping areas and is is one of the parks two
river with canoe camping along its shores. The river is located
in the sector of the same name and is best accessed from the St.
Come entrance. L'Assumption Sector (Saint-Come) - From
Montreal take highway 25 to the 337, then the 343 to Sainte-Come.
From Sainte-Come head north into the park. From Joliette take
the 343 north Sainte-Come. In the park follow route 9.
Diable
River canoe route is 45km in total with a 7km
interruption at km 25. Parc Tremblant's busiest canoe river, it
works it's way through several lakes, class I, II and II-III rapids,
several portages (which includes a mandatory shuttle around the
falls above Lake Monroe) then a few more rapids before it snakes
through the the mostly calm waters (there area a few swifts which
can be more significant in the spring or after a heavy rain -
check with the park regarding conditions before you set out) at
the bottom of the park. The lower section in the park is a slow
easy drift (with current) and is used heavily by weekend canoeists.
There are canoe camp sites along the route, mostly along the upper
section of the river but you'll find a group like site on the
lower section. Parts of the river become difficult to navigate
as water levels decline in the summer, low water levels may force
you to line or carry your canoe. The river is a favorite with
white water kayakers in the spring when it swells from mountains
melting snow. The park provides shuttles as well as rentals. The
river can be accessed from the Diable entrance (Lac Monroe) while
the upper sections can also be access from the Macaza entrance
in the north west of the park. Diable Sector (Lac Monroe) - From
Montreal take highway 15 to the 117 to St Faustin, then follow
the signs north into the park. From Mont Tremblant resort
take the highway around the mountain. At the T intersection take
a left and follow the signs a short distance into the park. Contact
the park for more information and make sure to inquire about water
levels before you go. A description of the river is available
in the "Guide des parcours canotables du Quebec" (French)
available from the Federation quebecoise du canot-et-du-kayak.
The park also
has canoe campsites on several lakes, these include Lac des Cypres,
Lac Rossi and Lac Lajoie in the Pembina sector (St. Donat). Lac
Monroe also has sites which you can reach by canoe or car. Out-There's
Mont Tremblant Park feature will provide
you with more information.
Papineau
Labelle Wildlife Reserve (Réserve Faunique)
The reserve
has several canoe routes from 2 to 4 days in length, as well as
wilderness sites which can be reached directly from a lake put-in.
A section of the Sept Freres route can be done as a loop if you
don't have a shuttle. Portages, some extensive, are required along,
the reserves lake routes. The Riviere du Sourd river route can
be paddled, depending on the time of year and the water levels.
Access is from Lac des Sourdes or several points along the parks
No. 4 road. There are a number of designated campsites on route.
You'll need sound white water skills for this, contact the reserve
for more information. For access to the canoe routes your best
bet is the Pie IX entrance, since the routes are all in the northern
sector (with the exception of the Riviere du Sourd which is in
the central region). To reach the Pie IX entrance from Montreal
take the 15 (or the 13 and the 640 to the 15) north until it turns
into the 117 north of Ste. Agathe. Continue on a short distance
passed L'Annociation where you pick up the 321 south which will
take you into the reserve. For more information have a look at
the Sepaq Website.
Please Note: Hunting is permitted in Quebec's wildlife reserves.
Rouge-Matawn Wildlife Reserve
(Réserve
Faunique)
The reserve
has two routes, the Lac Cinq Droit and the Matawin, both of which
are relatively easy and can be completed in 1 or 2 days. For those
with the skills and the equipment, there is also the renowned
21 Mile Rapids. With whitewater ranging from class I to IV this
is best left to the experts. This route should not be attempted
in low water. Check with the reserve regarding conditions and
skill levels required. For more information have a look at the
Sepaq Website. The two main
access points for the reserve are Macaza in the west and Saint-Micheal-des-Saint
in the east. There is currently no direct access from Mont Tremblant
Park. Macaza can be reached from the 15 then the 117north, Saint-Micheal
des Saints can be reached from Montreal by following the 40 east
towards Quebec and taking the 31north into Joliette, where you
head east to the 131 north.
Please Note: Hunting is permitted in Quebec's wildlife reserves.
Rouge River
220km One
of North America's premier whitewater rivers, it originates in
the Reserve Faunique Rouge-Matawin north of Mont Tremblant Park
and follows a winding course that eventually sees it empty into
the Ottawa River, just north of Calumet/Hawkesbury. The river
has lots of whitewater ranging from Class I to several un-runnable
waterfalls on route. You will find lots of Class II to IV sections
and several schools take advantage of these excellent areas for
teaching. Several companies offer rafting and kayaking on the
rivers lower section, as well as resort like facilities to allow
you to make a weekend of it. There are put-ins and take-outs off
routes 321 in the north, highway 117 in the mid section and from
various points along the lower section of the river, including
Huberdeau. Paddling up from the mouth of the river provides easy
access to some serious white water. The river is usually navigable
from May to June with water levels varying. A description of the
River is available in the "Guide des parcours canotables
du Quebec" (French) available from the Federation quebecoise
du canot-et-du-kayak. A separate guide with a description and
over 10 pages of maps with river details is also available from
the Federation. Topographical maps that cover the river are as
follows: 31 J/15, 31 J/10, 31 J/7, 31 J/231 G/15, 31 G/10.
Riviere
du Nord
The namesake
for the beautiful park outside of St Jerome, the river meanders
through the Laurentians, changing it's course from north/south
to east/west until it feeds into the Ottawa River at Saint Andre
Est, just below Lachute. The river has a number of paddling options
ranging from slow moving drifts, to some swifts and several rapids.
There are also some serious water falls which must be avoided.
There are several areas for easy paddling, which are serviced
by a number of companies, which provide, rentals and shuttles.
A description of the River is available in the "Guide des
parcours canotables du Quebec" (French) available from the
Federation quebecoise du canot et du kayak.
Les
Excursions Rivieëre du Nord - Mont Rolland
Pause Plein Air
- Val David
Parc
du la Riviere des Mille Iles
The park is
just a stones throw from Montreal and makes for a lazy days paddle.
The parks main access points are in Laval across the river from
the Laurentians but it can be accessed from several areas in on
the north shore, including the Centre de la Nature de Boisbriand.
The park is made up of green space on both shores and on the dozens
of islands along the channel. While very much an urban area the
marshes, islands and narrow channels provide excellent areas to
explore. You can rent your own kayak or canoe or take advantage
of the parks rabaska canoe tours. From Montreal take highway 15
(or the 13 to the 640 to the 15) and take the last exit in Laval.
Head east on Ste. Rose and watch for the signs.
In the neighboring
region of the Outaouais you'll find one of the finest canoeing
areas in eastern North America in the form of the La Verandrye
Wildlife Reserve. There are over 2000km of canoe routes in this
vast reserve, The reserve has rentals, along with shuttle and
guiding services. For more information have a look at the Sepaq
Website.
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Climbing
Val David
This is the
climbing centre of the Laurentians, if not the whole of Quebec.
Easy access, good quality rock, the possibility of top roping
and lots and lots of routes of varying difficulty, all add up
to a great place to climb.To the benefit of all of us, a chunk
of the surrounding area is being purchased by the town (cheers
to the good people of Val David and Val Morin, along with the
town council that made this a reality) from a developer and will
be turned into a park, the parc régional Dufresne. The
area is maintained by the Féderation
Quebecoise de la Montagne et de l'Escalade (FQME), which requires
you have a membership to climb (fair enough) . Contact them through
their website, show your support and sign up. From Montreal take
the 15 north (or the 13 to the 640 to the 15) and take exit 76
following the signs into Val David. Follow the main street to
the first right after the rail trail (P'tit Train du Nord) Spiniere
St, then take the split onto Condor St. Take the second left and
turn right at the end where you see the small parking lot. The
trial into the crags is right in front of the parking lot. Mont
Condor, and Mont King are on the right and Mont Cesaire is to
the left
La Bleue -
highest point 50m, more than 85 routes, located on the southwest
side of Mont Condor west.
Les Fesses
- highest point 30m, more than 25 routes, located on the south
side of Mont Condor east.
Mont Césaire
- highest point 80m, over 150 routes, located on the south side
of Mont Cesaire.
Mont King
- highest point 75m, over 150 routes, located south and southwest
of Mont King.
Note: This
list is by no means exhaustive.
La
Montagne d'Argent
- La Conception
The climbs
range from 25 to 100m with a variety of ratings. There are over
200 routes to explore. The area is maintained by the Féderation
Quebecoise de la Montagne et de l'Escalade (FQME), which requires
you have a membership to climb in the area. Contact them through
their website and show your support and sign up. From Montreal
take the 15 north (or the 13 to the 640 to the 15) and continue
on the 117 passed Mont Tremblant to La Conception.
You'll also
find climbing areas in Weir (Rte. 364, beside the earth station),
Shawbridge (Rte. 117), Saint-Hippolyte (head northwest from the
117 at LaFontaine just after the autoroute split at St. Jerome)
and just outside Mont Tremblant Park north of St. Faustin (follow
the signs towards the park from the St. Faustin exit off the 117).
Climbing is
inherently dangerous. Make sure you have the proper training,
knowledge and equipment before you attempt any climb. Take advantage
of guides and instructors and hone your skills in one of areas
gyms to ensure your abilities are up to snuff. Never climb alone.
Note: This
listings are to be used only as a reference and in no way constitute
a guide to rock climbing in the areas described. Check with the
local schools and outdoor shops regarding conditions, closures
and access. For more information contact the Féderation
Quebecoise de la Montagne et de l'Escalade (FQME).
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Cycling
Lower Laurentians Linear Park (Basses Laurantides)
27km (5km in the works), St Jerome - Ste Therese
(Rosemere and eventually Laval), Laurentians This is a new development
which starts just north of Montreal/Laval. When it's completed
it will provide direct access to the P'tit Train du Nord from
the Montreal area which should be hugely popular and in addition
will allow commuters to cycle to work from the lower Laurentians.
.
Access: St Jerome, Mirabel, Blainville
and Ste Therese
Connects to the The P'tit Train du Nord
The P'tit Train du Nord
200km, St Jerome - Mont Laurier,
smooth surface, minimal grade, fee. The linear park travels through
the beautiful hills of the Laurentians just north of Montreal.
From St Jerome the trail travels through the Park du Riviere du
Nord, side swipes the Parc Doncaster and continues on through
much of the regions resort areas including the Village of Mont
Tremblant. You can start the trail from either end or you can
pick up the trail from dozens of locations on route. For detailed
information see our featured article. There is cross country skiing
along the lower section in the winter. The trail connects to over
a thousand kilometres of XC trails.
Access: See the featured article
- The P'tit Train du Nord
Connects to the Lower Laurentians Linear Park and soon directly
to the Aerobic Corridor (access is still in development), as well
as the bike path connecting Mont Tremblant Village and the Resort.
Access Fee.
The trail surface is crushed gravel.
Route Verte.
The Aerobic Corridor
(Corridor Aerobique)
60km, minimal grade, hardpack, Morin Heights
- St Remi d'Amherst, Laurentians The Aerobic Corridor is one of
Quebec's original multi-use trails It is currently evolving and
will soon provide a loop, in conjunction with the P'tit Train
du Nord, through the some of the most beautiful areas in the Laurentians.
The loop will take you from the P'tit Train du Nord just south
of St Sauveur to Morin Heights (planned), to Monfort, Lac des
Seize Iles, Weir, Arundel, Saint Remi d'Amherst and in the future
on to Brebeuf, Ste Jovite and the Village of Mont Tremblant, where
it will again connect to the P'tit Train. As this is written the
trail is essentially hard pack, hybrids or mountain bikes are
recommended. The trail extension into St Sauveur and Mont Tremblant
should be completed in 2005. The Aerobic Corridor
Will connect to the The P'tit Train du Nord - Access:
See the featured article - The Aerobic
Corridor
Towns: (St Sauveur) Morin-Heights, Montfort, Lac-des-Seize-Iles, Saint-Adolph-d'Howard,
Weir, Arundel, Saint-Remi
d'Amherst (Brebeuf, St Jovite, Mont
Tremblant)
Mont Tremblant
12.5km, Mont Tremblant Village - Mont Tremblant
Resort, Laurentians The trail system is a paved, off road trail
with gentle grades connecting the Village of Mont
Tremblant and the Mont Tremblant Resort.
Roller Blading
Cross Country Skiing
Connects to the The P'tit Train du Nord
Out-There's Mont Tremblant - Accommodations
- Restaurants
The Vagabond
46km, Oka - Saint-Eustache, Lower Laurentians The trail is just north
east of Montreal in the lower Laurentians region of Quebec running
from Oka to St Eustache. It follows the north shore of the St
Lawrence from the confluence of the Ottawa and the St Lawrence
at the Lake of Two Mountains/Oka through Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac
and Pointe-Calumet and then on to St Eustache. The trail passes
through Oka Park (where you can expect some climbs) along route.
Pick up the trail at the Two Mountains Train Station in St Eustache
or east of the ferry in Oka along the waterfront
Paved with crushed gravel sections.
Route Verte
Quebec
Fall Foliage, Nature and Harvest Festivals
Blaineville Bikeway
21km, paved. The bike path weaves
its way around the town of Blaineville in the lower Laurentians.
From Montreal take the 15 north (or the 13 to the 640 to the 15)
and take exit
Bois
de Belle Rivière
- Regional
The park has
a trail system for cycling as well as has a number of hiking trails
which are used in the winter for cross country skiing. There are
huts you can rent for overnight stays. There are also two sugar
shacks to visit in the spring. From Montreal take the 15 or the
13 north to the 640 and head west towards St. Eustache. Follow
the 148 north to the park. Day use only Fee
Hiking 17km+
Cycling
Swimming
Cross Country Skiing
Snowshoeing
Birding and Nature Observation
Contact:
Bois de Belle-Rivière
9009 Arthur Sauve
Box 328, Mirabel
QC, J0N 1S0
Rivière-du-Nord
- Regional
A beautiful
regional park just off highway 15 outside of Saint-Jerome. The
park lies along the P'tit Train du Nord (the Laurentian's rail
trail) on the shores of the Riviere-du-Nord. The Chutes Wilson
are a great spectacle, particularly in the spring when the waters
can be ferocious. Their are over 15 hiking trails and designated
biking trails. The park follows the river and boasts several rapids.
This is a nice outing in the fall when the colours are changing.
From Montreal take the 15 north (or the 13 to the 640 to the 15)
and take exit 46 at St. Jerome. Turn right on Montee Meunier and
cross back over the autoroute and take the first right along International
Blvd. Day use only Fee
Hiking 32km
Cycling/Mountain Biking 15km and access to the 200km P'tit Train
du Nord
Cross Country Skiing 27km
Snow Shoeing
Birding and Nature Observation
Note: The park is for day use only, and a fee is charged for access.
Contact:
Parc regional de la Riviere-du-Nord
1051 International Blvd., RR 2
Saint-Jerome, Quebec
J7Z-5T5
Phone/Fax: 450-431-1676
Domaine
Vert - Regional
The park is
in a lovely natural area with an extensive trail system for cycling
and hiking as well as cross country skiing in the winter. Easy
access and a variety of activities make it a popular local destination.
From Montreal take the 15 north (or the 13 to the 640 to the 15)
and take exit 23, pass back over the highway heading west and
watch for Montee Ste-Marianne on your right. Day use only Fee
Over 100km of trails
Hiking
Cycling
Cross Country Skiing
Birding and Nature Observation
Contact:
Parc du Domaine Vert
Mirabel
Laurentians, Quebec
450-435-6510
Doncaster
- Regional
A beautiful
nature park a short distance from Ste. Adele. The park follows
the Doncaster River as it makes its way to the Riviere du Nord.
The trials connect to the P'tit Train du Nord allowing you access
from the either side. The park makes for a beautiful days outing.
Day use only Fee
Hiking
Cycling
Cross Country Skiing
Snowshoeing
Birding and Nature Observation
Parc de la
Rivière Doncaster
Mont-Rolland (Ste Adele), Laurentians, Quebec
450-229-2200
Parc de la
chute
Ste-Agathe
342, Gosford Ouest,
Ste-Agathe (Qc)
418-599-2294
Towns: (St Sauveur) Morin-Heights, Montfort, Lac-des-Seize-Iles, Saint-Adolph-d'Howard,
Weir, Arundel, Saint-Remi
d'Amherst (Brebeuf, St Jovite, Mont
Tremblant)
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Equestrian
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Hiking
Mont Tremblant Park
Hikers are well served by Parc Tremblant with
dozens of trails to choose from. There are a number of trails,
such as La Roche and La Corniche which lead to spectacular viewpoints
and others, such as the Chute-aux-Rats which end at the base of
majestic waterfalls.
L'Envol Trail:
5 km one way. The trail starts in the l'Envol parking lot and
takes you up to a panoramic view.
La Chute-Aux
Rats Trail: Easy, 3km loop. The trail starts in the parking lot
of La Chute-Aux Rats at the Saint Donat reception center on Hwy
125 and travels a loop to a refuge on the far point of the trail
then back along Lac Lajoie.
La Corniche
Trail: Easy/Intermediate, 1.6 km. This is an easy/moderate crushed
stone path that climbs steadily up to a lookout that gives you
a beautiful view of Lac Monroe. The elevation gain is 230 meters.
La Roche Trail:
Intermediate, 2.4 km. This is a crushed stone path that climbs
steadily up to a lookout that gives you beautiful view of Lac
Monroe and then continues to another lookout higher up with another
spectacular of the lake. The elevation gain is 280 meters.
Lac de l'assomption
Trail: Easy, 3.4 km loop. The trail begins in the l'Assomption
parking lot of this sector and climbs to the lookout tower with
an elevation gain of 185 meters.
Lac des Femmes
Trail: Easy, 2.7km. This trail starts in the Lac Monroe service
center and is a nice loop trail that follows the tip of Lac des
Femmes for a short section.
Lac Ernie
to Lac des Sables to Cute aux Rats Trails: Expert, 30 km. Essentially
a backpacking trail you can hike sections of it as out and backs.
The trail begins at the parking lot at Chutes Croches and travels
5 km to Lac Ernie, then continues 10 km to Lac des Sables, with
two particular points of interest along the way. It then takes
you another 15 km through the a forested section with two lookouts
on the way to Chute aux Rats. There is a hut at Lac des Sables.
Sentier du
Centenaire: Expert, 10 km one way. This is a demanding trail that
has an elevation change along the trail of 400 meters but rewards
you with 9 interesting points or lookouts along its 10 km length.
The trail follows the tops of the mountains that fall off into
the winding river below. Have a look at Out-There's Mont
Tremblant Park feature for more information on the park.
Oka
Park
The park is
23.7 square km in size, with about 30km of trail in all, providing
great opportunities for bird watchers and hikers. There are 3
main trails in the park. The 5.5 km Le Calvaire d'Oka, a historic
trail across the Highway from the beach which climbs the parks
prominent mountain. Le Sommet is a 7.5km multi-use (hiking, mountain
biking, and skiing) loop which also takes you up a mountain but
offers a fair bit of up and downs in the process. L'Erabliere
another loop trail is 1.5 km in length, starting just off the
highway in the middle of the park. In a slightly different vein,
the Sentier Ecologique de la Grande Baie is a nature trail just
above the Grande Baie where many of the parks 187 species of birds
have been recorded and where many of the parks birds nest. There
is a boardwalk leading into the marsh as well as an observation
tower. The trail is a 3 km loop and is an easy walk. Have a look
at Out-There's Oka Park feature for more
information on the park.
Devils
Mountain
Intermediate/Advanced
The mountain is the second highest peak in the Laurentians at
783 m.There are 30km of trails with a lot of variety. The trail
system is to be found just to the west of the town of Ferme-Neuve,
in the upper Laurentians north of Mont Laurier. The campsites
are maintained by the Friends
of the Mountain, which charges a fee for their use. Contact
them through their website for more information on the area. The
mountain has two separate backcountry campgrounds as well as shelters
are also available for rent in the winter for backcountry skiers
or snowshoers. To reach Ferme-Neuve from Montreal take the 15
(or the 13 to the 640 to the 15) north then continue on the 117
to Mont Laurier. Head north on the 309 to Ferme-Neuve.
Bois
de Belle Riviere
- Regional
The park has
a number of hiking trails which are used in the winter for cross
country skiing. There are huts you can rent for overnight stays.
There are also two sugar shacks to visit in the spring. From Montreal
take the 15 or the 13 north to the 640 and head west towards St.
Eustache. Follow the 148 north to the park. Day use only. Fee.
Hiking 17km+
Cycling
Swimming
Cross Country Skiing
Snowshoeing
Birding and Nature Observation
Contact:
Bois de Belle-Rivière
9009 Arthur Sauve
Box 328, Mirabel
QC, J0N 1S0
Rivière-du-Nord
- Regional
A beautiful
regional park just off Highway 15 outside of Saint-Jerome. The
park lies along the P'tit Train du Nord (the Laurentian's rail
trail) on the shores of the Riviere-du-Nord. The Chutes Wilson
are a great spectacle, particularly in the spring when the waters
can be ferocious. Their are over 15 hiking trails and designated
biking trails. The park follows the river and boasts several rapids.
This is a nice outing in the fall when the colours are changing.
From Montreal take the 15 north (or the 13 to the 640 to the 15)
and take exit 46 at St. Jerome. Turn right on Montee Meunier and
cross back over the autoroute and take the first right along International
Blvd. Day use only. Fee.
Hiking 32km
Cycling/Mountain Biking 15km and access to the 200km P'tit Train
du Nord
Cross Country Skiing 27km
Snow Shoeing
Birding and Nature Observation
Note: The park is for day use only, and a fee is charged for access.
Contact:
Parc regional de la Riviere-du-Nord
1051 International Blvd., RR 2
Saint-Jerome, Quebec
J7Z-5T5
Phone/Fax: 450-431-1676
Domaine
Vert - Regional
The park is
in a lovely natural area with an extensive trail system. Easy
access and a variety of activities make it a popular local destination.
From Montreal take the 15 north (or the 13 to the 640 to the 15)
and take exit 23, pass back over the highway heading west and
watch for Montee Ste-Marianne on your right. Day use only. Fee.
Over 100km of trails
Hiking
Cycling
Cross Country Skiing
Birding and Nature Observation
Contact:
Parc du Domaine Vert
Mirabel
Laurentians, Quebec
450-435-6510
Doncaster
- Regional
A beautiful
nature park a short distance from Ste. Adele. The park follows
the Doncaster River as it makes its way to the Riviere du Nord.
The trails connect to the P'tit Train du Nord, allowing you access
from either side. The park makes for a great days outing. Day
use only. Fee.
Hiking
Cycling
Cross Country Skiing
Snowshoeing
Birding and Nature Observation
Parc de la
Rivière Doncaster
Mont-Rolland (Ste Adele), Laurentians, Quebec
450-229-2200
Parc de la
chute
Ste-Agathe
342, Gosford Ouest,
Ste-Agathe (Qc)
418-599-2294
Parc
du la Riviere des Mille Iles
- Regional
The parks
main access points are in Laval, across the river, but it can
be accessed from several areas on the Laurentians shore including
the Centre de la Nature de Boisbriand. The park is made up of
green space on both shores and on the dozens of islands along
the channel. While it is located in what is very much an urban
area, the marshes, islands and narrow channels provide an excellent
area to explore. The park has rabaska canoe tours or you can rent
your own kayak or canoe. From Montreal take highway 15 (or the
13 to the 640 to the 15) and take the last exit in Laval. Head
east on Ste. Rose and watch for the signs.
Canoeing
Kayaking
Hiking
Le Parc de la Rivière des Mille-Îles
345 Ste Rose Blvd West,
Ste-Rose, Laval, QC
H7L 1M7
Ph 450-662-1020
Fax 450-622-8050
Quebec
Fall Foliage, Nature and Harvest Festivals
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Mountain Biking
Mont
Tremblant Park
Bikers
can choose from over 75km of jeep track, dirt road and single
track. The trails are predominantly in the Lac Monroe area but
their is an excellent ride of 17km in the Pimbina Sector.
La
Diable Sector
Les
Chutes Croches - Beginner 9.2km, La Diable Sector. Mostly rolling
jeep track with one short climb, it leads from the campgrounds
on the east side of Lac Monroe to the beautiful Chutes Croches.
La
Renardiere - Beginner 6.0km, La Diable Sector. Essentially a part
of the Le Revage trail you can use a return path at the bottom
of Lac Monroe to shorten the distance and turn it into a loop.
Le
Ravage - Beginner 11.6km, La Diable Sector. The trail runs from
the campgrounds on the east side of Lac Monroe with some great
undulations and single track on the way to the Relais du Ravage
Hut.
Lac-Bochet
- 18.6km, La Diable Sector. From the parking lot at Lac du Brochet
the trail travels to the Petite Riviere Cachee and follows along
the banks for a few kilometers before turning sharply north to
the Refuge de la Cache. This is a linear trail.
Le
Boule - 10.8km, La Diable Sector. An out and back consisting of
jeep track and dirt road starting from Highway 1 below the Monroe
Service center. The trial leads to the Relais du Campe hut or
you can take the south branche to the lake.
Lac
Cassagne - 17km, Pimbina Sector. The trail climbs from just outside
of the Saint-Donat Centre d'accueil. A linear section leads to
a 7km section that loops back to the main trail. The loop passes
several lakes including, Lac Cassagne and Lac Telephore and leads
to the Relais du Lariou Hut.
Out-There's
Mont Tremblant Park feature will provide
you with more information on the park.
Oka
Park
The park has
a 7.5km long intermediate/expert trail, just across the highway
in the parks north section, called Le Sommet. It's a loop, with
some nice climbs, technical areas and single track. The trail
begins with a steep rocky climb and keeps ascending (and descending,
those devils) to the ski cabin. From the cabin the decent is steep
and loose with very fast single track to follow before another
climb. You'll end the ride looping back to the steep rocky section,
which magically has become a descent. This is a very, very nice
ride. There are dozens of other trails in the park for cycling
as well as the Vagabond, a paved pathway which cuts through the
park, extending from St. Eustache to Oka.
Note:
They have unfortunately plowed (scraped, flattened or what ever)
the rocky sections at the entrance, which was the most excellent
section on the trail. Is nothing sacred!
Have a look
at Out-There's Oka Park feature for more
information on the park.
The Aerobic Corridor
(Corridor Aerobique)
60km, novice, hardpack, Morin Heights -
St Remi d'Amherst, Laurentians The Aerobic Corridor is one of
Quebec's original multi-use trails It is currently evolving and
will soon provide a loop, in conjunction with the P'tit Train
du Nord, through the some of the most beautiful areas in the Laurentians.
The loop will take you from the P'tit Train du Nord just south
of St Sauveur to Morin Heights (planned), to Monfort, Lac des
Seize Iles, Weir, Arundel, Saint Remi d'Amherst and in the future
on to Brebeuf, Ste Jovite and the Village of Mont Tremblant, where
it will again connect to the P'tit Train. As this is written the
trail is essentially hard pack, hybrids or mountain bikes are
recommended. The trail extension into St Sauveur and Mont Tremblant
should be completed in 2005. The Aerobic Corridor
Will connect to the The P'tit Train du Nord - Access:
See the featured article - The Aerobic
Corridor
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Rafting
Rouge
River
The Laurentians
is home to one of the best rafting rivers in eastern North America,
the Rouge. The lower section has several companies which have
guided trips. Some include resort like facilities where "party"
is the operative word. Inquire about other activities at the site,
such as hiking, kayaking and mountain biking and while you're
at it you might as well make it a weekend.
Riviere
du Nord
The namesake
for the beautiful park outside of St Jerome, the river meanders
through the Laurentians, changing it's course from north/south
to east/west until it feeds into the Ottawa River at Saint Andre
Est, just below Lachute. The rafting trips follow through the
central section of the river. This is much more a family rafting
river than the rouge.
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Scuba Diving
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Sea Kayaking
Oka
Park
The park
is located on the Lake of Two Mountains, where you can sea kayak
or canoe on the confluence of the Ottawa and the St. Laurence
Rivers. You can paddle along the park's shore for about 8 km.
Perhaps the best kayaking or canoeing is beside the Grande Bay,
which teams with wildlife providing a pleasant paddle along with
some excellent nature observation. On the west side of the park
their is another nice paddling area, although less interesting
than the Grande Baie, it's a good launch site to catch the afternoon
sun. If the winds are up this is a great place for wind surfers,
but not at this point for a canoeist (especially) or kayakers.
The east end of the park is more protected when the wind is howling.
In
some areas of the park, like La Crete and Les Dunes, you can camp
close enough to the water to carry your boat(s) to the lake. This
is especially interesting for someone using the park as a stop
over on an extended paddling trip. Have
a look at Out-There's Oka Park feature for
more information on the park.
Baskatong
Reservoir
This vast
body of water is largely comprised of several reaches that stretch
for miles and miles in just about every direction. The reservoir
can be accessed from several smaller roads which branch off from
the 117 north of Mont Laurier. Part of the reservoir follows the
borders of the La Verendry Wildlife reserve. From Montreal take
the 15 (or the 13 to the 640 to the 15) north then the 117. You'll
find several access roads off the 117 including ones through Ferme-Neuve
and Val-Limoge. From
Ottawa take the 105 north passed Maniwaki to the intersection
with the 117. Access roads lie both east and west of the intersection.
Parc
du la Riviere des Mille Iles
The parks
main access points are in Laval, across the river, but it can
be accessed from several areas on the Laurentian shore including
the Centre de la Nature de Boisbriand. The park is made up of
green space on both shores and on the dozens of islands along
the channel. While very much an urban area the marshes, islands
and narrow channels provide excellent areas to explore. The park
has rabaska canoe tours or you can rent your own kayak or canoe.
From Montreal take highway 15 (or the 13 to the 640 to the 15)
and take the last exit in Laval. Head east on Ste. Rose and watch
for the signs.
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White Water Paddling
Rouge River - Riviere Rouge
220km. One
of North America's premier whitewater rivers. It originates in
the Reserve Faunique Rouge-Matawin, north of Mont Tremblant Park
and follows a winding course that eventually sees it empty into
the Ottawa River just north of Calumet/Hawkesbury. The river has
endless rapids ranging from Class I to several un-runnable waterfalls
on route. You will find lots of Class II to IV sections and several
schools take advantage of these excellent areas for teaching.
Several companies offer rafting and kayaking on the rivers lower
section, as well as resort like facilities to allow you to make
a weekend of it. There are put-ins and take-outs off routes 321
in the north, highway 117 in the mid section and from various
points along the lower section of the river including at Huberdeau.
Paddling up from the mouth of the river provides easy access to
some serious white water. The river is usually navigable from
May to June with water levels varying. A description of the River
is available in the "Guide des parcours canotables du Quebec"
(French) available from the Federation quebecoise du canot-et-du-kayak.
A separate guide with a description and over 10 pages of maps
with river details is also available from the Federation. Topographical
maps that cover the river are as follows: 31 J/15, 31 J/10, 31
J/7, 31 J/231 G/15, 31 G/10.
Diable
You can run
whitewater in the park in the early spring but the main white
water challege is below the park, to the north and south of the
confluence of the Riviere Archambault. The northern section is
mostly Class IV, while below this it's mostly I & II depending
on the water levels.
Doncaster
The Doncaster
attracts a lot of white water kayakers in the spring. The action
is dependant on the winters snow levels and how quickly the snow
melts. The main whitewater section is just below Lac Masson outside
the town of Ste. Margarite.
Maskinonge
42km. With its headwaters in Lac Labelle, outside of Labelle,
the river connects several lakes as it flows south to join the
Rouge. There are several campsites on Lac Labelle as well as between
Lac Maskinonge and the Rouge. Take out before the bridge before
the river flows through several sets of wicked rapids rate IV,
V and VI before emptying into the Rouge River above Rivington.
A description of the River is available in the "Guide des
parcours canotables du Quebec" French) available from the
Federation quebecoise du canot-et-du-kayak.
Riviere
Simon The river is often
run by white water kayakers in April and early May. Like a lot
of the rivers at this time the paddling is unpredictable. The
whitewater sections are mostly between Christie Ville and the
Riviere du Nord, just outside Saint Sauveur.
In the neighboring
region or the Outaouais you'll find the exceptional whitewater
of the Upper Ottawa River. In Montreal there is an excellent white
water run just off the shores of Lasalle in the form of the famous
Lachine Rapids.
Note:
Before paddling any of these rivers inquire with local shops or
clubs, that have paddlers that have experience on these rapids.
Better still go with someone who does. For the less experienced
hire a good guide/instructor. These descriptions are for reference
only and in no way constitute a guide to the rivers mentioned.
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