8 Easy And Beautiful Hiking Trails 2 Hours From Montreal You Need To Conquer This Summer
Hiking is one of the best outdoor activities to partake in. It's a great way to get exercise, it's something you can enjoy with others, and it allows you to disconnect for a little while and enjoy nature.
Unfortunately, many people who have little to no hiking experience are often hesitant to try out a new trail, for fear that it exceeds their physical capabilities. But the reality is that hiking is not just for super fit, experienced outdoor adventurers: it's for everyone, and it's something we can all benefit from.
Luckily, the beautiful province of Quebec has many easy to moderate hikes available. Whether they lie in huge national parks or exist off the beaten path, these hikes are guaranteed to meet all skill levels. Not only that, they are sure to be a fun, simple way to relax and get away for a little while. Hike on.
1. Wolf Trail - near Chelsea, QC
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This gorgeous trail is easy to moderate in difficulty, but perhaps the only challenging thing about it is the length. The whole hike will take about 3 hours to complete, but feel free to stop and rest along the way, because there are tons of beautiful views throughout to keep you in awe.
2. Mauricie Falls/Mauricie National Park - near Shawinigan, QC
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A hiking trail that ends in a waterfall? Yes please. La Mauricie National Park is a treasure when it comes to outdoor activities - you can do everything from hiking to boating, camping, and swimming at the base of a waterfall. The trail leading up to the falls, though steep at some points, is quite short, thus making it suitable for all levels.
3. Des Trois-Etangs Loop in Mont-Orford National Park - Orford, QC
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This national park's stunning natural beauty is worth the trip alone, and there are multiple hiking trails for beginner and intermediate level hikers. The park is also home to a beautiful waterfall, tons of accessible swimming spots, and views that can't be beat.
4. Sentier Du Morne trail - near Megantic, QC
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Located in Megantic National Park, this hiking trail is a long, slow climb that is certainly worth the view. It should take around two hours to complete, but don't let that sound daunting - with the amazing nature scenes this park offers, you'll want to spend all the time you can taking it in.
5. Calvaire Summit trail in Oka National Park - Oka, QC
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Most of the trails at Oka National Park are perfectly suitable for beginners, so don't be too worried about which one you choose to take. If you don't want to venture too far, Oka is only about 45 minutes from downtown Montreal, so it's a great close option.
6. Le Grand-Tour trail in Yamaska National Park - near Granby, QC
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Only about 1.5 hours from Montreal, Yamaska National Park is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway. With camping, boating, tons of lakeside relaxation areas, and some awesome hiking, you really can't go wrong here. The hiking trails, though easy, do tend to be a little long, so bring proper provisions.
7. Parc Regional Des Sept-Chutes - Saint-Zanon, QC
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As the name suggests, this park has seven waterfalls to discover, and you won't be disappointed with the breathtaking views. There are multiple trails to choose from, including ones for beginner hikers. If you want something with a little bit of a challenge, however, there are also options that will meet your goals.
8. Parc de la Gorge trails - Coaticook, QC
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This park is seriously one of the most treasured hidden gems of Quebec, so get there to knock an item off your bucket list. The hiking trails range from easy to moderate, and you'll be spanning across bridges (like the suspended one pictured above), boardwalks, and sections that will open up to amazing views of the gorge.
Bonus: Pink Lake trail in Gatineau Park - Gatineau, QC
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Although this hiking trail is just over two hours from Montreal, it deserves a spot on this list because it perfectly bridges the gap between an easy hike, and incredible picturesque views. The Pink Lake trail is super accessible for any hiker, and you'll want to take your time making your way around the lake - it is truly breath taking in every way.