Lakes

Lac Tapani
Lac Piscatosine
Lac Gatineau
Lac des Iles
Lac du Cerf
Lac du Poisson-Blanc
Lac Nominingue
Petit Lac Nominingue
Reservoir Kiami
Reserve Baskatong - A huge reserve in the northern sector of the region.
Reserve Mitchinamecus - ZEC Mitchinamecus
Lac Tremblant - A fairly large recreational lake, Mont Tremblant Resort and the Village of Mont Tremblant a short distance away are located on the lakes shores. The P'tit Train du Nord (rail trail) follows the lakes shoreline. Canoeing, kayaking, beaches, sailing. Mont Tremblant Region
Lac Des Sables - A small recreational lake with nice beaches and excellent commercial camping. Ste Agathe
Lac de l'Achigan - Source of the Riviere de l'Achigan - See Rivers.
Lac-des-Seize-Iles
Lac Monroe - Camping is available along the shore. Flat water canoeing. The lake lies along the Diable River canoe route but it is not usually paddled due to the falls at the top. A shuttle is available to connect the upper and lower sections of the river - Parc du Mont-Tremblant.
Lac Masson
Lac Louisa
Lac Saint Joseph

Rivers

The areas rivers vary wildly from easy, wide, slow drifts to narrow chutes and tumbling rapids. Canoe camping, white water paddling and rafting are readily available. Have a look at the following river descriptions to find one which supports you're activity and matches
your skills.

Bazin
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.

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.

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.

Kiamika
Fed by the reservoir of the same name, it joins the Lievre south of Mont 
Laurier. 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. 

Lievre
Runs through the northern section of the region. 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.

Maskinonge
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 since the river flows 
through several sets of wicked rapids, class  IV, V and VI, before emptying
into the Rouge River above Rivington - 42km. 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.

Mazana
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 de l'Achigan 
With its source in Lac de l'Achigan in the Laurentians, the river  heads south 
than veers to the east into the Lanaudiere region,  meeting with several 
others before emptying into the St Lawrence. The river is run by white 
water kayakers in the spring.

Riviere des Mille Iles

The Riviere des Mille Illes is actually a segment of the St. Lawrence River which is divided by the Island of Montreal and Laval. The river makes up the southern boundary of the Laurentians. For recreationists the Parc du la Riviere des Mille Iles is of particular interest. 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.
Parc du la Riviere des Mille Iles

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, south west of La chute just below Saint Andre Est. The river has a number of paddling options ranging from slow moving drifts, to some swifts and several areas of rapids with some falls to avoid. There are several areas for flat water 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" des parcours canotables du Quebec" (French) available from the Federation quebecoise du canot et du kayak .

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 Simon
Often run by white water kayakers in April and early May. Like a lot of 
the rivers at this time the paddling is unpredictable.

NOTE: Never run a river without checking with the proper authorities about current conditions and the required skill levels. In the spring the runoff brings high water levels that attract lots of kayakers to the areas rivers. If you go, be prepared, the rivers often overflow there banks and change character dramatically. Sweepers, strainers and boulders abound and last years easy paddle may be a nightmare this year. Make sure you're with someone who knows the rivers and understands the risks. Dress appropriately, the waters are really cooooold at this time of year!

These descriptions should be considered references and are not to be used as guides to the rivers listed. Where ever possible we have pointed you to sources with more complete information.

Parks

Provincial

Oka Park

Located on the shores of the Lake of Two Mountains in the Lower Laurentians, the park has hiking, mountain biking, camping, cross country skiing, snow shoeing and excellent birding. The park is a home to perhaps the best beach in the Montreal area. A bike path passes through the park and connects into the extensive Montreal cycling network... More

Mont-Tremblant Park

Located in a beautiful setting in the Central Laurentains, this is Quebec's most popular park. You'll find a weatlth of outdoor activities including cycling, mountain biking, hiking, backpacking, white water paddling, cross country and backcountry skiing... More

Regional & Municipal

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

 

Riviere-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. There are over 15 hiking trails and designated biking trails within the park boundaries. 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 but easy trail system. The ease of access and the wide variety of activities available 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 parks trials connect to the P'tit Train du Nord, presenting you with 200km more to explore. 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

 

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 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.

Canoeing
Kayaking
Hiking
Cross Country Skiing - Classic and Skating

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

 

Chute-Sainte-Philippe

Hwy 311 Northeast of Mont Laurier
Camping
Mountain Biking
Hiking
Cross Country Skiing

Reserve Faunique - Wildlife Reserves

Papineau Labelle Wildlife Reserve (Réserve Faunique) - Laurentians/Outaouais

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.

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).

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 on the reserve have a look at the official site on the Sepaq Website.

Please Note: Hunting is permitted in Quebec's wildlife reserves

Rouge-Matawin Wildlife Reserve (Réserve Faunique) - Laurentians/Lanaudiere

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 reserve has two canoe 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.

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. For more information on the reserve have a look at the official site on the Sepaq Website.

Please Note: Hunting is permitted in Quebec's wildlife reserves

ZECS

ZEC Mainson-de-Pierre
Laurentians
PO Box 129
Chemin Maison de Pierre
L'Ascension, QC

ZEC Mazana
Laurentians
1128, Rue St-Anne, Val-David, QC
J0T 2N0
(819) 322-5547

ZEC Mitchinamecus
Laurentians
11, Rue Notre-Dame, Ste-Anne-du-lac, QC
J0W 1V0
(819) 586-2155

ZEC Normandie
612, de la Madone, Mont-Laurier QC
J9L 1S9
(819) 587-3007

ZEC Petawaga
PO Box 11, Mont-Laurier, QC
J9L 3G9
(819) 623-5447 (819) 623-3177

ZEC Le Sueur
R.R. 2, Mont-Laurier
PO Box 392, Ste-Agathe-des-Monts, QC
J8C 3C6
(819) 587-3264 (819) 326-5528

Forests

Bois de Belle Riviere
9009, route Authur-Sauve
PO Box 328
Mirabel, Quebec
J0N 1S0
Phone: 50-258-4924
Fax: 50-258-0085

Hiking, Cross Country Skiing, Wildlife Observation and Interpretation

Just off Hwy. 148 above the 640