This article is about the best national parks near Montreal. We’ve also included some of the most beautiful nature parks in and around the city. Learn about the best things to do all year in the national parks near Montreal – all less than 3 hours away from Downtown Montreal.
One of our favorite things about living in Montreal is how close it is to the great outdoors. You’re always a quick drive away from an amazing national park in Quebec, a great hike, a rustic campground or the perfect weekend getaway.
Because we all spent too much time stuck inside and are longing to get out, we decided to round up the best nature and national parks near Montreal. We hope this will help you start planning your hike in one of the best parks in Quebec.
Why did we choose to focus on the best national parks in Quebec? A lot has to do with the fact that there are over 200 trails to pick from in Quebec. Another is that with so many national parks, the landscape, fauna and flora change so much from one place to the next, so they are all worth exploring! Either way, we’re convinced you’ll find something amazing to explore in each park!
Please note that not all hiking trails open at the same time as the parks try to protect the soil and its new growth. To ensure the national park you want to visit is open, check if you can buy a daily pass.
Some national parks will open on April 1, as others allow hikers on the trails after mid-May. It’s important to call and find out before heading to your national park of choice.
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Table of Contents
Understanding what national parks are in Quebec
In the province of Quebec, you’ll find two different types of national parks, which may seem a bit confusing, but it’s not. There are about 50 national parks in the province, and 10 are quite close to Montreal.
First, you’ll find parks that are managed by Parks Canada, an entity of the federal Canadian government. Three parks in Quebec are managed by Parks Canada – Forillon, La Mauricie and the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve. You also have the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park, which is managed jointly by Parks Canada and the Sépaq.
You can read all about the best national parks in Quebec in our article here.
What are provincial parks in Quebec
This brings us to our second category of national parks, which are actually more like provincial or regional parks (like the ones found in other Canadian provinces). They are run by the Société des établissements de plein air du Québec or Sépaq, which is a para-governmental organization of the provincial Québec government. 24 national parks are managed by the Sepaq throughout the province of Quebec.
So why are there no provincial parks in Quebec?
Since the province of Quebec is officially recognized as a distinct nation, the parks under the Quebec government’s jurisdiction are also called “national parks”. Unlike in other provinces where you’ll find provincial parks, in Quebec, you’ll only find national parks – some run by the federal government and some run by the provincial government.
However, you also have a ton of regional parks and nature parks in the province. We’ve included some of them here as we want you to get out and explore as much of Quebec’s beauty as possible.
Just note that you may need to pay entrance fees to these parks – national parks all have entrance fees, while regional or nature parks may or may not. If you plan on hiking or camping often in the Sepaq National Parks, we recommend getting an annual pass for the parks. You’ll end up saving quite a bit of money if you’re a fan of the outdoors!
If you’re looking to plan a getaway from Montreal, make sure you check out these articles:
– The best day trips from Montreal
– The best weekend getaways from Montreal
– The best national parks in Quebec (for longer road trips)
– The best road trips in Quebec
The 24 best national and nature parks near Montreal
If you’re looking for a quick escape from the city, here are the best national parks to visit near Montreal. We also included some great regional and nature parks close to Montreal.
These parks are perfect for a weekend getaway (as most offer camping sites on their grounds). We kept this list of the parks that you can visit on a day trip from the city, so less than a 3-hour drive from Montreal at most. If you’re planning on driving up to the park, getting a good hike in and driving back, you don’t want to spend ten hours in the car!
If you plan on going even further, we have a list of amazing national parks you can visit all over Quebec.
1. Iles-de-Boucherville National Park, the closest national park to Montreal
This is as close as you can get to having a nature park in your backyard!
Just 20km from Montreal, you have the Iles-de-Boucherville National Park, with its 5 little islands in the heart of the Saint-Lawrence River. It’s so close that it could be considered one of the national parks in Montreal. And if you want to get technical, it’s one of the best provincial parks in Quebec, close to the city of Montreal!
This provincial park near Montreal is open year-round. You can go camping there in the summer and go snowshoeing in the winter. There are also a ton of other activities you can do at this beautiful ecological and historical haven a few steps from Montreal!
If you love to hike, this national park near Montreal has 21 km of multi-purpose trails, plus another 15 km of rustic trails that will provide you access to the most charming scenery on the islands.
If hiking is not your thing, in the summer, you can also go kayak, canoe, rabaska (obstacle trails in the trees), bike, or play beach volleyball. Year-round, you can spot quite a few birds (over 200 different species, actually) and even white-tailed deer. In the winter, you can snowshoe, hike, cross-country ski, or kicksled.
Regardless of when you go during the year, there are tons to do at this national park in Québec. And best of all, it’s a stone’s throw from Montreal.
- Official site
- Drive time from Montreal: 25 minutes
- Location
- Cost of entry: $9.85
2. Mont-Saint-Bruno, another national park close to Montreal, perfect for families
Mont-Saint-Bruno is a lovely Sepaq park located a short drive from Montreal. If you’re looking to escape the city and head into a little nature oasis, this park is for you.
This provincial park in Quebec is home to five different lakes where you can practice water sports, pick apples from the orchard in the fall, enjoy tea time at the historic 300-year-old mill and explore a ton of hiking trails. Although the trails aren’t very long or challenging, it’s a great place to spend a quiet morning taking in the beauty of this nature park near Montreal. Perfect for families with little hikers.
This provincial park near Montreal is home to 200 different species of birds and 40 species of mammals that you can see in the summer or winter. Just make sure you go in the morning, around the opening.
Because the park is so close to Montreal, and in a residential area, it does tend to get busier as the day progresses, making the animals shy away.
This national park near Montreal is a great place to visit in the winter too! It’s the perfect park close to the city where you can go fat bike or cross-country skiing.
In the warmer months, you can hike the trails or bike a few of them. The Mont-Saint-Bruno National Park also has dog-friendly trails and family-friendly trails for exploring with the kiddos.
- Official site
- Drive time from Montreal: 30 minutes
- Location
- Cost of entry: $9.85
3. Oka National Park, a beautiful beach and national park near Montreal
Oka Park is so close to Montreal, it’s such a short drive from the city center! And best of all, you can escape to one of Montreal’s only beaches in less than an hour! But that’s not all the National Park of Oka has to offer.
It is also home to a unique complex of historic buildings in America and to wetlands. Plus, it’s the perfect place to get a view of the Lac des Deux Montagnes and the Adirondacks.
In the summer, other than the beach, you can go hiking, biking, canoeing, kayaking, and camping. In the winter, you can explore the trails on a fat bike or kicksled. You can also go cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Oka isn’t that far from Montreal, so it does tend to get quite busy on weekends, especially on hot summer days. If you want to take full advantage of the beach, make sure you head there on a weekday or early in the morning. You’ll be able to avoid the crowds for a little bit!
If you’re looking to plan a beach getaway with friends, whether it’s for just an afternoon or for a whole weekend, Oka is the place for you. It’s kid-friendly and more family-oriented (so keep that in mind, depending on what you’re looking to do).
- Official site
- Drive time from Montreal: 45 minutes
- Location
- Cost of entry: $9.85
4. Gault Nature Reserve in Mont-Saint-Hilaire, a beautiful nature park near Montreal
Ok, so technically, the Gault Nature Reserve in Mont-Saint-Hilaire is not a national park, but if you’re looking to go on a good hike near Montreal, then you just can’t ignore it.
The Gault Nature Reserve is owned by McGill University and is located at Mont-Saint-Hilaire. The reserve protects more than 1,000 hectares of natural forest, hosts 25 km of trails, and offers four viewpoints of Lake Hertel.
The trails at the Gault Nature Reserve are not very hard, and they tend to get quite crowded on weekends. If you can, park nearby and walk to the reserve. You’ll notice many homes along the way offering you parking. Some days, it’s well worth taking them up on the offer, as wait times to get into the parking lot at the reserve can get quite long!
Apart from hiking, the Gault Nature Reserve has a ton of conservation efforts you can learn more about. You can go bird watching in warmer months, or go cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.
There’s also a little beach by Lake Hertel where you can plop down and enjoy the view. Again, there’s something magical about visiting these national parks in the fall, when the leaves are insane!
- Official site
- Drive time from Montreal: 45 minutes
- Location
- Costs: $0 for anyone 17 yo or younger. $8 per adult
If you’re looking for some fun hikes to do near Montreal, make sure you check out our article here. We cover the best hikes that are less than 2-hours drive away from Montreal.
5. Mont-Gosford in the ZEC Louise Gosford, a beautiful nature park close to Montreal
Another park near Montreal that’s not a national one, but it doesn’t matter because it’s amazing. The Mont-Gosford Park is a must-see nature park near Montreal. It’s managed by the ZECs (which are another entity of park management).
About a 1-hour drive from the city, located in the Eastern Townships, Mont-Gosford is the 7th highest peak in Quebec. Once at the peak, you have a breathtaking 360° view of the wilderness and mountains of the Lac-Mégantic area, and of the states of Maine and New Hampshire.
In the summer or the winter, you can hike these amazing trails, along the ridges and valleys. The ZEC Louise Gosford park and the Mont-Gosford trail is part of the Route des Sommets (Summit trail), a trail that crosses the Megantic region and spans over 157 km.
Because this nature park is so close to Montreal, you can come here for a day trip, or you can camp here or rent one of their cabins. It’s worth spending a night in this park, as the sky at night is lit up by thousands of stars. You can also visit this park while you’re out exploring the Eastern Townships.
- Official site
- Drive time from Montreal: 1 hour
- Location
- Cost of entry: $6.00
6. Mont Orford National Park, a gorgeous national park near Montreal, in the Eastern Townships
If Mont-Tremblant or the Laurentians aren’t where the locals tell you to go, then it’s the Eastern Townships!
The Townships are a fun place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. And the Parc National du Mont-Orford is one of the best parks near Montreal you should explore.
In the winter, Mont-Orford has a great ski hill to keep you busy. If not, its 80 km of trails will surely have something to offer you! In fact, Mont-Orford is a paradise for hikers. There are a ton of viewpoints to discover all around the park.
The best time to hike in this national park near Montreal is in the fall when the leaves turn all colors of the rainbow! Just be sure to not get too distracted as you may miss sighting the white-tailed deer and Great Blue Heron who call this park home.
In the summer, there are two beaches to choose from, plus all the other activities. From biking, canoeing, kayaking and so much more. There’s really something for everyone at this beautiful park near Montreal!
- Official site
- Drive time from Montreal: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Location
- Cost of entry: $9.85
Quick Montreal local tip: If you’re planning on staying the night in Mont-Orford, we have the perfect little campground for you. Instead of camping at the national park, stay at this rustic campsite. They’re a family-run campground and they are eco-friendly, so it’s a great place to spend the night.
We highly recommend staying at Chalets Hygge, if you’re looking for a nice cabin to get cozy in. You can find out more about Chalets Hygge and their offering here.
7. Parc National du Mont-Tremblant, one of the best parks near Montreal
Ask any local where they usually go to escape from Montréal, and Mont-Tremblant will surely come up as an answer more than a few times!
Mont-Tremblant has become a perfect getaway from Montreal, either in the summer or the winter. Not only is there a beautiful national park there, but the area is booming with a challenging ski resort, a ton of indoor and outdoor activities, and so much more!
Today, we’re focusing on the national parks. And the Mont-Tremblant National Park does not disappoint.
At 1,500 km2, the Parc National du Mont-Tremblant is the largest of Québec’s parks. It’s also the first national park in Quebec.
With 6 large rivers that run through it, on top of the 400 lakes and streams, this is one national park near Montreal that you don’t want to miss, especially if you love water sports!
At this national park near Montreal, there are 82 km of hiking trails to explore. The most challenging and unique trail of them all is the Via Ferrata du Diable. You may also discover some of the best waterfalls in Quebec while hiking the trail of this national park.
Somewhere between hiking and climbing, this trail will allow you to discover the park’s majestic mountains in a way you could otherwise only dream about. It’s best to head here for sunset to get a crazy view!
Of course, you can also go swimming in the lakes and rivers, but scout the shallow waters to make sure the waters are a bit warmer because even in the summer, they can be quite frigid! You can paddleboard, kayak, and pedal boat. A lot of these are available to rent on location.
If you want to find one of the best national parks for camping, this might be the place for you. There are a few campgrounds to choose from in the Mont-Tremblant National Park. They all offer similar amenities, so our recommendation would be to pick the area that is closest to the activities you want to do.
- Official site
- Drive time from Montreal: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Location
- Cost of entry: $9.85
8. Plaisance National Park, a different national park near Montreal
A short 2-hour drive from Montreal, you’ll find the Sepaq’s Plaisance National Park. It’s located in the Outaouais region, a true hidden gem of Quebec.
In French, Plaisance means pleasantness, so you know exactly what to expect here. The landscape in this provincial park is made of bays, ponds and marshes.
If you want to see Canadian geese migrate, this national park near Montreal welcomes thousands of them back home in the spring. In the summer, this park is a paradise for bird lovers. It’s home to ducks, herons, ospreys, and dozens of other species of birds.
In 2017, floods destroyed the nature park’s Zizanie-des-Marais Trail. But today, it’s been restored and is a must when you visit this national park. It’s the perfect way to walk around the park and explore the marshes.
What’s great about this national park is that it’s perfect for hikers but also bikers and those who want to explore the waterways. In the summer months, you can rent kayaks, canoes or paddleboards and navigate on the waters. You can even paddle all the way to one of the best waterfalls in Quebec, the Chute de Plaisance.
For bird lovers, this park is perfect! Since it’s located on an ecological reserve, there are plenty of opportunities to watch the birds in the region. Make sure to bring your binoculars with you! It’s truly a beautiful Quebec national park to discover.
- Official site
- Drive time from Montreal: 2 hours
- Location
- Cost of entry: $9.85
9. Fôret-La-Blanche ecological reserve, a Quebec nature park with the oldest tree forest
Another great nature park in Outaouais is the Forêt-la-Blanche Ecological Reserve. What makes this Quebec nature park truly unique is that it’s home to one of Quebec’s last remaining old-growth forests.
This nature park near Montreal is made up of many short trails that open to amazing viewpoints of the various lakes in the area. The trails are well-maintained and marked, and you can group them together to extend your stay in this beautiful forest. You have enough trails to spend half a day in this park, at a minimum!
If you’re looking to spend a full day here, we recommend visiting the Plaisance National Park, mentioned above, or heading to the nearby Chute de Plaisance. You can also stop by Parc Omega and tour their car safari. There are plenty of fun and unique things to do in Outaouais, no matter the season!
The Forêt-la-Blanche Ecological Reserve is one of the only ecological reserves open to the public in Québec. The park is open year-round, so you can enjoy it no matter the season.
We got to enjoy this park in the fall, in early October, and the colorful leaves made this place truly spectacular. With the foliage above dancing in the wind, and below your feet, on a colorful carpet of fallen leaves. Best of all, since it’s a fairly unknown park, you have the trails to yourself.
In 2023, the Forêt-la-Blanche Ecological Reserve celebrated its 20th anniversary. They continue their mission to improve conservation education about Quebec’s forests and its biological and ecological diversity.
While in the Petite Nation region of Outaouais, make sure you add this to your itinerary. It’s perfect, no matter how long you choose to spend here, and what season you visit!
- Official site
- Drive time from Montreal: 2 hours and 20 minutes
- Location
- Cost of entry: $8.00
10. Hike the trails of the Parc Régional du Lac de 31 milles
The region of Outaouais is home to some of the best-kept trails in Quebec – a true treasure trove of hidden gems. All these trails are well-groomed and well-indicated, running a vast web of hiking routes that are fit for all types of hikers and explorers. To be honest, these trails were some of the best-maintained ones we’ve ever hiked on!
The trails cover a vast range of landscapes and offer so many different sights to see. From mountains, marshlands, plains, ancient forests, rivers and waterfalls, there are so many hiking trails in Outaouais that are calling your name.
Best of all, when you look at their descriptions, you have a gauge of their length (in time and distance), their level of difficulty, the amount of technical abilities needed and more. This will help you find the perfect hike for you!
While in the Parc Régional 31 milles, we had the pleasure of walking the lush trails of the Chute Rouge. A 3.2 km loop trail that walks through forests, leading to Petit Lac Rond. We accessed this trail by canoeing to it. But you can also park nearby and hike there.
We also hiked the trail to the Stone Bridge and the natural whirlpool. These well-maintained trails are a pleasure to hike on. Although they’re not very difficult or long, they are the perfect occasion to reimmerse yourself in nature. If you bring your bathing suit, you can even sit in the natural whirlpool for a refreshing dip.
If you love to canoe, we recommend staying in one of the unique accommodations available at the Parc Régional du Lac des 31 milles. It’s the best way to combine your love of hikes and canoeing and make the best of this beautiful park in Quebec.
- Official site
- Drive time from Montreal: 3 hours and 30 minutes
- Location
- Cost of entry: $20
11. A year-round national park near Montreal with discovering, Yamaska National Park
Located a quick hour’s drive away from Montreal, Yamaska National Park is a beautiful place to discover. Perfect for cyclists and hikers alike, it’s one of the top national parks near Montreal.
Yamaska National Park is where you can discover a valley typical of the Appalachian Lowlands. There are kilometers and kilometers of trails around the park as well as the Réservoir Choinière, a large body of water, perfect for swimming, kayaking, boating, fishing and more.
What makes this park so unique is its biodiversity – It’s a popular nature park for birdwatchers. Here, you can discover herons, ducks, and ospreys. Yamaska Park also has several observation towers for those looking to get a better view of the wildlife. Make sure to bring your binoculars or your zoom lens to catch the action.
The park is open in the summer and the winter. There’s a ton of activities to do here for the whole family. During the colder months, you can hit the winter hikies, or check out the snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails. You can also fat bike, snow tube or ice fish.
Being so close to Montreal, this national park is great for a day trip from the city, or to explore on a weekend getaway. There are campgrounds available for rent in the park.
- Official site
- Drive time from Montreal: 1 hour
- Location
- Cost of entry: $9.85
12. Explore one of Park Canada’s premier parks in Quebec, La Mauricie National Park
A short 2-hour drive from Montreal, you have La Mauricie National Park. It’s the perfect place for discovering the natural beauty of the area, going on outdoor adventures and admiring serene landscapes.
La Mauricie National Park is considered one of the best national parks near Montreal for nature lovers, adventurers, and families too. And since it’s between Montreal and Quebec City, getting there is one of the most scenic drives in the province.
This national park near Montreal is one of the few run by Parks Canada. It features rolling hills, dense forests, more than 150 lakes and so many rivers and waterfalls.
Here, in the summer months, you can hike or cycle the trails. Canoe on the many lakes or enjoy the waters. You can also stay overnight at one of the campgrounds. In the winter, you can ski, hike or snowshoe.
For those looking to discover some wildlife, La Mauricie National Park is a great place to see white-tailed deer, beavers, black bears, and even moose. Birdwatchers can find loons, owls, and woodpeckers.
Being this close to Montreal, you can choose to go on a day trip or a weekend getaway. Whatever you choose to do, you’ll have an amazing time discovering one of the best national parks close to Montreal.
- Official site
- Drive time from Montreal: About 2 hours
- Location
- Cost of entry: $9.85
15. Explore an Ontario nature park near Montreal, Gatineau Park
Although Gatineau Park is a stone’s throw away from Ottawa and one of the best things to do in the Capital, it’s only a short 2-hour drive from Montreal. It’s still a great nature park near Montreal worth exploring.
Since this park is in Ontario, it’s run by the National Capital Commission (NCC).
First off, the drive from Montreal to Ottawa is one of the most scenic road trips in Quebec (and Ontario). The park is located in the beautiful Outaouais region, which is a hidden gem in itself.
Next, the sheer size of Gatineau Park makes it more impressive than any of the other parks on this list. At 361 km², the diversity of landscapes, activities and wildlife sets this park apart.
The park has something unique to offer whether you’re visiting in the summer or the winter. Here you have expansive trails, deeper forests, and a variety of ecosystems.
During the warmer months, you can go hiking and cycling. In the winter, there are skiing trails to take on. In the fall, you can catch the fall foliage from the Champlain and King Mountain lookouts.
Gatineau Park also holds some cultural significance. You can visit Mackenzie King Estate, the former summer residence of Canada’s longest-serving prime minister. You can explore the estate’s gardens, ruins, and walking trails, as well as tour the historical buildings.
With campgrounds and accommodations available, Gatineau Park is a great place to escape on a weekend getaway from Montreal.
- Official site
- Drive time from Montreal: About 2 hours
- Location
- Cost of entry:
14. Discover one of Quebec’s most unique national parks near Montreal, Mont-Mégantic National Park
Megantic is another one of those amazing Sepaq national parks near Montreal. And it’s truly one of the most unique parks in the province.
What makes it so special is that it’s located in the heart of the first International Dark Sky Reserve, the Eastern Townships of Quebec. This means that the nights here are some of the starriest you’ll ever see!
Beyond its national park where you can hike up Mont Saint-Joseph or Mont Mégantic, you can also learn more about the starry universe at the ASTROLab and the astronomy observatories. It is the only scientific attraction of its kind in Québec.
This park is open year-round. You can go hiking or cycling in the summer, hiking, snow-shoeing, cross-country skiing or sledding in the winter. The fall foliage is amazing to observe here in the fall where you can see the colors from the different peaks.
Although the park is located 2.5 hours away from Montreal, it’s still a great weekend trip to take. Camp at the national park, or stay at Hébergement Cinq Sens, only 30 minutes away. Enjoy the ride there because the route from Montreal through the Eastern Townships of Quebec is one of the most beautiful.
- Official site
- Drive time from Montreal: 2.5 hours
- Location
- Cost of entry: $9.85
15. Parc Jean Drapeau, a beautiful nature park close to Montreal
Parc Jean-Drapeau is located (kind of) in Montreal, though it’s not on the island itself. In fact, it’s located on two islands – Île Saint Hélène, and the artificial island of Île Notre-Dame. Just a quick drive from downtown Montreal.
Parc Jean Drapeau is known for so many outdoor activities, cultural events, and festivals. It’s home to the Grand Prix du Canada, Osheaga Festival, Picnik Electronic and so many other iconic Montreal events.
It’s also a great outdoor destination for locals (or visitors) who want to spend time in nature.
The Formula 1 track, a 4.3-kilometer racetrack is open for cycling, rollerblading, and walking outside race times. (They shut it down for about 7-10 days around Race weekend).
Parc Jean-Drapeau is also home to multiple trails – offering beautiful views of the St. Lawrence River and the Montreal skyline.
If you want to go beyond hiking, Jean-Doré Beach on Île Notre-Dame is a popular getaway in the hot summer months, perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball.
You can also go kayaking and canoeing in the surrounding waters. There’s also a large pool used during the Olympics where you can swim.
In winter, Parc Jean-Drapeau transforms into a winter wonderland where you can go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating on the outdoor rink.
- Official site
- Drive time from Downtown Montreal: 15 minutes
- Location
- Cost of entry: Free to visit
16. Parc-nature du Cap-Saint-Jacques, a Montreal park worth discovering
Parc-nature du Cap-Saint-Jacques is Montreal’s largest nature park. It’s located on the western tip of the Island, cleverly known as the West Island. It spans over 330 hectares, with tons of things to do all year round.
This Montreal Nature Park is home to beautiful landscapes, forested trails, a beach, and family-friendly amenities. It’s also on the water, so you have amazing views all around.
Fun fact, it’s one of Derek’s favorite parks – he used to live super close to it. He even brought me on a date here when we first started dating.
At this park, you can find a mix of forest, wetlands, and agricultural fields. This rich biodiversity makes it a great spot for observing wildlife, like deer, different bird species, and even the occasional beaver. You can hit the trails on foot or biking.
In the summer, the beach at this Montreal Nature Park is a major draw for families looking to cool down. You can also rent kayaks and canoes to explore the lake and its surroundings.
In the winter, you can go cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. There are over 30 kilometers of trails made for this. For families, the park’s rolling hills are the perfect slopes for sledding, and there are also designated trails for fat biking.
For a quick getaway from the city, Parc-nature du Cap-Saint-Jacques is the perfect Montreal Nature Park to discover.
- Official site
- Distance from Downtown Montreal: 30 minutes
- Location
- Cost of entry: Free to visit
17. Sentiers de L’Abbaye d’Oka, a beautiful park near Montreal, perfect for hiking
Although this isn’t a nature park, per se, the trails at the Abbaye d’Oka is a beautiful place where you can hike. The trails are located in Oka, about 45 minutes from Montreal.
Set on the grounds of the historic Oka Abbey, the park offers a ton of outdoor activities, scenic trails, and a peaceful natural setting that makes it an ideal day trip from Montreal.
The Abbaye was established by Trappist monks in the late 19th century. Although no longer active as a monastery, it’s a significant historical landmark.
In this nature park near Montreal, you’ll find about 11 kilometers of well-maintained trails. They vary in difficulty, from easy to more moderate hikes with some elevation. Though none of them are too hard.
Some of the more popular trails are the Sentier des Moines (Monks’ Trail). This hiking trail goes through peaceful forests and offers you a chance to see historic remnants from the Trappist monks’ farming practices.
The Sentier des Crêtes (Ridge Trail) is a moderately challenging trail that leads up to high ridges. It offers expansive views of the lake and surrounding countryside. The best time to hike this trail is in the fall when the foliage is peaking.
In the winter, the trails are open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. And in recent years, some trails have been adapted for fat biking.
If you’re looking for a hidden gem, this nature park near Montreal is one well worth discovering.
- Official site
- Distance from Montreal: 45-60 minutes
- Location
- Cost of entry: Free of cost for the moment
18. Mont Sutton, a great park near Montreal to discover all year round
Usually, Mont Sutton is known as being a beloved ski resort. But it’s also a great hiking destination!
Located in the Eastern Townships, one of our favorite regions in Quebec, is about 1.5 hours from Montreal. The drive there is one of the most scenic road trips in the province.
In the winter or the summer, there’s a ton to do at Mont Sutton. Not to forget the fall, when the foliage is beautiful.
In the colder months, you can go alpine skiing or cross-country skiing, as well as snowboarding. There are also fat-bike trails you can explore to discover this Nature Park near Montreal.
In the summer months, or after the major thaw, the parks offer tons of trails to explore. There are plenty of trails to choose from, varying in length and difficulty.
You can also hit the trails on your mountain bike. And for those seeking adventure, the park offers ziplining and a treetop adventure park.
- Official site
- Distance from Montreal: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Location
- Cost of entry: Free for some trails. $8.00 for others. Affiliated to the Parc d’environment naturel de Sutton
19. Parc d’environement naturel de Sutton, a unique nature park near Montreal
Not too far from Mont Sutton, you have the Parc d’environement Sutton. It’s a great nature park near Montreal well worth discovering, especially considering its focus on conservation.
A beautiful protected area in the Sutton Mountains, Parc d’Environnement Naturel de Sutton (PENS) is dedicated to preserving the local ecosystem, all while promoting outdoor activities.
PENS offers over 52 kilometers of trails and is a top spot for hiking in the Eastern Townships. In the park, you can discover a mix of forest, wetlands, streams, and rocky ridges.
This nature park close to Montreal has a range of trails to choose from. They range in difficulty, length and views.
We enjoyed the Round Top Trail, one of the most famous hikes in PENS. It leads to the 968-meter-high summit of the same name. Here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Vermont border.
Another great hike is the Sentier des Chutes du Pekan. We walked on this trail through a lush forest. But we have to say that the waterfall was less than impressive. Not quite like the other beautiful waterfalls we’ve seen in Quebec.
If you’re looking for beautiful lookouts, Dos d’Orignal and Mont Gagnon offer amazing views of the surrounding valleys, forests and mountains.
In winter, PENS opens for snowshoeing, offering trails that lead through serene snow-covered forests. Snowshoe rentals are available at the park’s entrance. If you’re looking for a winter wonderland, this is it!
There are also some trails made for cross-country skiing, making it worth exploring this beautiful winter nature park near Montreal.
- Official site
- Distance from Montreal: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Location
- Cost of entry: Free for some trails. $8.00 for others
20. Abbaye Saint-Benoit du Lac, a unique place to discover near Montreal
One of our favorite places to visit in the Eastern Townships, the Abbaye Saint Benoit du Lac is not only a beautiful landmark of the region, but it’s also a great place to go hiking.
Although it’s not an official nature park, the Abbaye is the starting point of the Circuit de l’Abbaye.
This is a long-distance hiking trail that stretches 149 km long and forms a loop. The trail will take hikers through mountains and valleys, and crossing seven municipalities.
Expect breathtaking landscapes, as well as historic and heritage sites. The trail can take anywhere between eight to ten days. But we recommend hiking it in smaller sections.
For those wanting to explore the Abbaye’s grounds, there are close to 2 km of footpaths called the Prayer Paths. They have been developed with the intention of contemplation and prayer. This is also because the Abbaye hosts retreats (some silent ones), where guests can recharge.
The trail is located 1.5 hours from Montreal by car, making it an ideal day-trip destination for those looking for tranquility and natural beauty.
- Official site
- Distance from Montreal: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Location
- Cost of entry: Free to visit and hike
21. Chutes de Plaisance, a waterfall park close to Montreal
The Chutes de Plaisance is a beautiful waterfall, one of the nicest in Quebec. And the park around it is just as lovely.
This nature park is located in the Outaouais region of Quebec, near the small town of Plaisance, a short drive away from the Parc National de Plaisance.
Just over an hour away from Montreal, not only is this park home to a scenic hiking trail, but its main attraction is an impressive 63-meter-high waterfall. It’s a fantastic destination for a day trip from Montreal.
The Chutes de Plaisance waterfall is particularly powerful in the spring when melting snow and rainfall increase its water flow. In the fall, the colorful leaves only add to its beauty.
The hiking trail is a short and easy one, which is why we recommend taking your time and exploring all the different lookouts.
The waterfall also has historical value. It was part of a logging operation in the 19th century. There are interpretive panels along the trail that explain the area’s historical significance and the role of the waterfall in early local industry. There’s also a small museum in the ticket office.
The waterfall and its park are great for day trips from Montreal. And if you have more time, there’s plenty to do in the Outaouais region too!
- Official site
- Distance from Montreal: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Location
- Cost of entry: $9.85 – it’s now a part of the Parc National de Plaisance.
22. Sentiers du Mont-Sourire, a park near Montreal with a stunning view
The trails to Mont-Sourire are located in the Lanaudière region of Quebec, about a 1-hour 45-minute drive from the city. This is a hidden gem of a nature park near Montreal.
This park is known for its scenic hiking trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
This is our type of hike – low-effort, big reward. The lookout is located less than one kilometer from the parking lot.
Best of all, it offers a panoramic view over the village of Saint-Donat, Lac Ouareau and La Réserve ski center in the foreground. Mont-Ouareau, Mont-Kaaïkop and Montagne Noire make up its impressive background.
There are plenty of trails to choose from at this nature park close to Montreal. Trails range from easy, family-friendly paths to steeper, more challenging routes.
The most famous trail is the one that leads to the top of Mont Sourire. We recommend hiking it for sunrise or sunset. Bonus points if you go during the fall foliage season.
If you’re looking for a nice hike and nature park near Montreal, this is a great one.
- Official site
- Distance from Montreal: 1 hour
- Location
- Cost of entry: Free of charge
23. Parc des Chutes Dorwin, a park close to Montreal with an impressive waterfall
The Chute de Dorwin (or Dorwin Falls) is a popular nature park located near Rawdon, about an hour and a half north of Montreal.
This nature park is known for its scenic waterfalls, rugged trails, and beautiful forest. Just some of the reasons why it’s so popular.
The trail is a short one and it’s not very hard. It’s not uncommon to see families with children exploring the park. And best of all, is that you can easily access the beautiful 18-meter high Dorwin Fall.
The park and its hiking trails are actually accessible year-round. Each season offers a different perspective. The lush summer forest, the colorful autumn leaves and the icy winter waterfall – something new to discover each time.
For those looking to hike, there are a few lookout points where you can see the falls. The loop to the waterfall has a few different terrains – from a well-maintained trail and some rocky patches. What’s great about this trail is that it’s mainly shaded.
There’s also a trail that goes up to a little hill where you can get some impressive views of the area.
If you’re looking for a nature park near Montreal or a short hike close to Montreal, this is a great one to add to your list.
- Official site
- Distance from Montreal: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Location
- Cost of entry: $12 for non-residents. Free for residents
24. Parc des Sept-Chutes
The Parc des Sept-Chutes is a scenic natural park located in Saint-Georges, in the Lanaudière region. It gets its name from the series of seven cascading waterfalls that call this nature park near Montreal home.
Located about 2 hours from Montreal, the park is a fantastic destination for nature lovers and hikers. Everyone has a chance to experience the waterfalls, wildlife, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
We had a short time to explore this park and loved the leisurely hike to the Voile de la Mariée waterfall. At only 2 km, it’s a perfect little teaser for the park.
The park offers over 8 km of well-marked hiking trails that range from easy walks to moderate and challenging hikes, suitable for all levels.
Another popular trail is the Sentier de la Montagne. This is the main trail that leads to the top of Mont Saint-Georges. Here, you can admire the best panoramic views of the Beauce region. Wear sturdy shoes, because this trail is a little rougher.
You can also hike to the Chute de la Montagne. The most impressive of the 7 waterfalls in the park. Standing tall at 120 meters, this waterfall is most powerful in the spring when water levels are highest.
Whether you’re looking for a beautiful waterfall, a hiking trail that’s close to the city, or a regional park near Montreal, this is the perfect park for you.
- Official site
- Distance from Montreal: 2 hours
- Location
- Cost of entry: $9.00
Everything you need to know about the national parks near Montreal
Here are some of the most important things you should know before visiting a national park near Montreal. These tips will help you plan the best hiking trip!
Can you visit a national park close to Montreal without a car?
Truth is, not really!
Although getting around the city of Montreal is easy by public transport, most national parks and nature parks outside of the city are not accessible without a car.
However, some of the national parks near Montreal are accessible by using the services of the Navette Nature. You can check out which parks they go to on their website.
Are there guided tours or activities available in the national parks near Montreal?
Absolutely there are!
The SEPAQ and other nature parks do a great job of offering workshops and activities. Most of them take place over the weekend and they’re especially convenient for families (most are kid-friendly).
Some places offer guided hikes with rangers where they talk about the different flora and fauna in the park. They also have wildlife-watching tours, or workshops where they present the different animals in the park.
You can check the official website of the park you’re looking to visit or call them to see what they have going on.
Can you camp in the national parks near Montreal?
For the most part, yes! The SEPAQ national parks often have campsites available.
They also offer a variety of accommodations, from campgrounds where you pitch your own tent, to ready-to-camp sites or little cabins where all you need to bring are your sleeping essentials and food.
As for nature parks, they are not always set up for camping. They may only be open for the day and close at night. Make sure you check the park’s website before planning an overnight stay!
Also, note that campgrounds in the SEPAQ parks are known to go really quickly, especially on weekend stays and during construction holidays (end of July, early August). If you want to camp on the national park grounds, make sure you book ahead of time.
What are the opening hours of the national parks near Montreal?
The opening hours vary, as well as the seasonality. Most national parks will close their campgrounds and hiking trails around November 1 and open on April 1 or May 1. Other parks are open year-round and you can do winter hikes there.
As for opening hours, they also vary from park to park. Your best bet is to check the official website of the park you want to visit, and you should have all your information there.
What are the best times to visit the national parks near Montreal?
The best time to visit the national parks depends on what you plan on doing.
As we mentioned, some are open year-round, which means you can go hiking in the summer or winter, or go snow-shoeing in the winter. Some will have other activities available in the winter like cross-country skiing or fat biking. It really depends on the park, and what you feel like doing.
However, if you plan on taking full advantage of the best of the park, the summer months are the best! They tend to get busier, especially on weekends, but you’ll get to see a lot more flora and fauna and enjoy the best weather in Montreal!
Can you spot wildlife in the national parks near Montreal?
Absolutely! So many of the parks are home to so many animals, birds and more. Depending on when you go, you’ll likely see tons of wildlife!
Your best bet is going around sunrise or sunset when there are fewer people so you can see animals without all the crowds.
In some parks, you can see animals regardless of when you go. For example, in Boucherville Park, you can see deer all the time. At the Bic National Park, you’re likely to see foxes. At Forillon Park, there are moose, beavers and bears, as well as whales, seals and seabirds.
Here are the 24 best parks near Montreal
As a quick recap, here are the best national parks and other parks that are worth exploring in Quebec. Each has something unique to offer, no matter what you’re looking to do.
- Iles-de-Boucherville national park
- Mont-Saint-Bruno
- Oka national park
- Gault Nature Reserve Mont-Saint-Hilaire
- Mont-Gosford park
- Mont Orford National Park
- Mont Tremblant National Park
- Plaisance national park
- Fôret-La-Blanche Ecological Reserve
- Parc Régional du Lac des 31-Milles
- Yamaska National Park
- La Mauricie National Park
- Gatineau Park
- Mont-Mégantic National Park
- Parc Jean Drapeau
- Parc-nature du Cap-Saint-Jacques
- Sentiers de L’Abbaye d’Oka
- Mont Sutton
- Parc d’environement Naturel de Sutton
- Abbaye Saint-Benoit-du-Lac
- Sentiers du Mont-Sourire
- Chutes de Plaisance
- Parc des Chutes Dorwin
- Parc des Sept-Chutes
There you have it! The 24 best parks near Montreal. Exploring these national parks has been one of the highlights of our summers and falls in Montreal. We love discovering the unique characteristics of each park and the regions they are in.
We’re really lucky to live in such a beautiful province that offers so many great getaways from Montreal, whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a quick day trip. These natural escapes make it the perfect playground for campers and hikers alike. The fact that so many rivers run through this province also make it a great place for those who love their watersports!
Have you had the chance to explore any Quebec National Parks? Any parks near Montreal that you’ve discovered? Let us know in the comments. We’re always looking for different hikes to do near Montreal.
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