Lace up your boots and step outside!
The holidays are over and we’re looking to clear our minds and get our bodies moving—all while spending the least amount of money possible (read: bring on all OF 2025'S best free activities).
Many of the hiking trails in and around Montreal are groomed in the winter, leading you through a stunning natural landscape.
Stop and enjoy the serene beauty of the forest, and don’t miss the chance to observe its wildlife in their natural habitat.
Time Out Tip: Mont Royal has tons of hiking and ski trails to explore if you don’t want to leave the city.
Where to go winter hiking in Montreal?
Here are the top 5 spots outside of Montreal to go winter hiking:
1. The Sentier des cimes Laurentides
Picture an 1,250-metre elevated wooden boardwalk ending in a winding tower with panoramic views. Located in the heart of the Laurentian forest, the path (one of the first in North America) has interpretation panels and games along the way. The round-trip can be completed in less than two hours, and finishes up in a lookout tower (40 m high) with breathtaking bird’s eye views of the surrounding forest and mountains.
2. Mont-Orford National Park
Nestled in the Eastern Townships, Mont-Orford National Park is a premier winter hiking destination in Quebec, featuring frozen lakes, dense forests, and majestic mountains. Its diverse trails cater to all skill levels, offering everything from gentle nature walks to challenging hikes.
3. Mont Saint-Bruno
Just minutes from downtown Montreal, this winter hiking spot combes urban proximity with natural serenity. Featuring five lakes, an orchard, a historic mill, and trails for all skill levels, it offers diverse landscapes and unique adventures. Equipment rentals, including snowshoes and skis, make visits convenient, while wildlife like deer, foxes, and over 200 bird species add to the experience. Ideal for a refreshing weekend escape near Montreal.
4. Parc National du Fjord-du-Saguenay
Parc National du Fjord-du-Saguenay, home to one of the world’s longest fjords, offers breathtaking winter hiking trails amid snow-covered cliffs and the deep blue fjord. Located in Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, it’s a top destination for Quebec’s winter landscapes. Keep an eye out for seals resting on ice floes, and explore trails for all skill levels, with guided tours available to enhance your adventure.
5. Réserve Faunique des Laurentides
One of Quebec's largest wildlife reserves, Camp Mercier in the Réserve Faunique des Laurentides is a winter hiking haven offering trails for all skill levels. Its snowy forests, plateaus, and waterways create a stunning backdrop for solitude and adventure. Keep an eye out for wildlife in their natural habitat, adding magic to the experience. Equip yourself well and enjoy some of the most scenic trails in the province.
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