Welcome to the ultimate guide for finding where to go on amazing hikes in Montreal and its surroundings. This curated list of 20 hiking spots showcases the natural beauty of Quebec, offering options for all skill levels and accessibility needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick escape within the city or a full-day adventure in the Laurentians, these trails provide opportunities to connect with nature, stay active, and enjoy breathtaking scenery. Starting with the closest to Montreal and expanding outward, we’ve included locations accessible by public transport, shuttle services, and car, ensuring there’s something for everyone looking to explore the region’s lush forests, serene lakes, and panoramic mountain vistas.
Mont-Royal
About:
Looking for hikes in Montreal that you don’t have to leave the city for? Mont Royal is an easy to moderate hike located right in the heart of Montreal. This well-known urban mountain is popular for its panoramic views of the city, especially from the Kondiaronk Belvedere. The park also has a variety of trails going through it, making it a favourite for both locals and tourists. For one of the best sunsets in Montreal, head over to the other side of the mountain to Belvédère Outremont – you won’t regret it!
Distance and how to get there:
Being right in the heart of the city, climbing Mont Royal is easily accessible via the orange metro line and bus network. Have no car? This hike is perfect for you.
Location:
Boucherville Islands National Park
About:
Boucherville National Park features easy trails and lots of water-based activities, perfect for those summer days. The park is popular for its many island trails and scenic views of the St. Lawrence River, perfect for when you’re in need of a peaceful escape from the city.
Distance and how to get there:
22km from Montreal, 30 minutes by car. No car? It can also be reached from Montreal via metro and the Bus des Îles shuttle on weekends, or take a cheap ferry across the waters with Navark!
Location:
Mont Saint-Bruno
About:
Mont Saint Bruno is a gorgeous spot for hiking not too far outside of Montreal, with easy to moderate hiking trails and parking. The park is known for its five lakes and diverse flora and fauna, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
Distance:
24km from Montreal, 45 minutes by car. While public transit is possible to get to Mont Saint Bruno, a car is recommended for convenience.
Location:
Bois-de-L’Île-Bizard Nature Park
About:
Bois de l’Île Bizard is an easy hike with available parking, but it requires a car to get there. The park is famous for its scenic wetlands and boardwalks, offering an easy, unique hiking experience close to Montreal.
Distance and how to get there:
33km from Montreal, 1 hour by car. Public transport is available but it will take a lot longer.
Location:
Mont-Saint-Hilaire
About:
Mont Saint Hilaire is known to have moderate hiking trails with parking available. The park is popular for having some more challenging trails and stunning foliage in the fall, attracting hikers looking for a bit of a challenge.
Distance and how to get there:
35km from Montreal, 1 hour by car. It can be accessed via a combination of train and bus, however, a car is more convenient.
Location:
Cap-Saint-Jacques
About:
Cap Saint Jacques Nature Park features nice, easy and flat trails and has a lot of parking. The park is popular for its beach access and farm activities, making it a great family-friendly destination.
Distance and how to get there:
36km from Montreal, 1 hour by car. Public transit is possible.
Location:
Plage St Lin
About:
Plage St Lin is a lesser-known hiking spot that requires a car for access. It has easy trails and is popular for its serene, relaxed environment and beach access, making it a great spot for a relaxing day trip.
Distance and how to get there:
54km from Montreal, 1 hour by car.
Location:
Oka National Park
About:
Oka National Park offers easy to moderate trails around the surrounding national park, with parking available. The park is popular for its beach and diverse ecosystems, meaning there is a variety of outdoor activities to fill your day with!
Distance and how to get there:
59km from Montreal, 1 hour by car. Navette Nature, a shuttle bus service in Montreal also runs frequent trips here on the weekends!
Location:
Mont Orford
About:
Mont Orford is for more serious hikers, with various moderate to difficult trails. There is on site parking. The park is known for its scenic views and also serves as a ski resort in winter, making it a year-round destination. Don’t forget to add this one to your hikes in Montreal list!
Distance and how to get there:
123km from Montreal, 1.5 hours by car. It requires a car to get there.
Location:
Long Sault Parkway
About:
Long Sault is a beautiful set of small islands linked together by a road you can easily cycle or drive across to explore the various islands! The area is known for its beautiful river views and peaceful trails.
Distance and how to get there:
126km from Montreal, 1.5 hours by car.
Location:
Montagne Noire
About:
Montagne Noire is known for its moderate to difficult trails and requires a car for access. It is popular for its challenging hikes and stunning views, attracting experienced hikers looking for a rewarding experience.
Distance and how to get there:
128km from Montreal, under 2 hours by car.
Location:
Sentier du Mont-Sourire
About:
Mont Sourire has easy to moderate trails and requires a car for access. The park is known for its beautiful scenery and tranquil environment, making it a great spot for a peaceful hike.
Distance and how to get there:
134km from Montreal, 2 hours by car.
Location:
Mont-Tremblant
About:
Mont Tremblant, one of the most well-known hikes in Montreal, offers moderate to difficult hiking trails. The park is popular for its resort amenities and gondola access, if you’re not in the mood to hike to the top. It has stunning views and a variety of activities.
Distance and how to get there:
146km from Montreal, 2 hours by car. Navette Nature shuttle bus also runs frequently to Mont Tremblant.
Location:
Montagne Verte
About:
Montagne Verte offers moderate trails and requires a car for access. It is popular for its lush greenery and scenic views, providing a refreshing escape into nature. Fancy staying the night? Grab a tent and camp on the summit! Do your research to find a safe spot.
Distance and how to get there:
153km from Montreal, 2 hours by car.
Location:
Indian Head Trailhead
About:
Hikes in Montreal – well, in and around Montreal wouldn’t be complete without a go at the Indian Head Trail located in the USA has a range of moderate to difficult trails and requires a car for access. The trail is known for its slightly challenging terrain and breathtaking views, making it a favourite for experienced hikers. Grab your hiking boots and get going! Don’t forget to check USA border entry requirements before setting off.
Distance and how to get there:
191km from Montreal, 2 hours by car.
Location:
Chute du Diable
About:
Chute du Diable has easy to moderate trails and requires a car for access. The area is popular for its stunning waterfall and scenic beauty, providing a picturesque hiking experience.
Distance and how to get there:
159km from Montreal, 2.5 hours by car.
Location:
Lake Willoughby
About:
Also located in the USA in Vermont, Lake Willoughby has several easy to moderate trails and requires a car for access. The area is known for its crystal-clear lake and beautiful surroundings, making it a popular spot for both hiking and water activities.
Distance and how to get there:
195km from Montreal, 2.5 hours by car.
Location:
L’Eperon Trail
About:
L’Éperon Trail offers moderate trails and requires a car for access. It is popular for its challenging hikes and scenic views, attracting hikers looking for a bit of adventure.
Distance and how to get there:
302km from Montreal, 3 hours by car.
Location:
Sandbanks Provincial Park
About:
Fancy a weekend getaway? Sandbanks has easy trails and requires a car for access. The area is known for its beautiful sandy beaches and dunes, as well as clear waters, making it a popular, relaxing destination. Grab your tent and camp on one of the nearby campsites as you take in your serene surroundings.
Distance and how to get there:
379km from Montreal, 4 hours by car.
Location:
Laurentian Mountains
About:
Last but certainly not least, the Laurentian Mountains offer a range of hiking difficulties and have various parking options. Most areas require a car for access. The region is popular for its diverse trail network and scenic beauty, making it a favourite for outdoor enthusiasts.
Distance and how to get there:
347km from Montreal, 4.5 hours by car.
Location:
There we have it! The top 20 places you should try out for the best hikes in and around Montreal this year. From the easily accessible urban trails of Mont Royal to the challenging peaks of Mont Tremblant, no matter your level there’s something for everyone. Remember to always check trail conditions, bring appropriate gear, and respect the environment when visiting these natural areas. So lace up your hiking boots and explore the stunning landscapes that await you in and around this vibrant city.
