The Montagne Noire offers one of the most challenging hikes in Saint-Donat. Starting from Chemin Régimbald, the trail gradually gains elevation through a maple grove and first leads to a viewpoint overlooking Lake Archambault and Mount Garceau. Further on, the trail runs along Lake Lézard before reaching a site steeped in history.
On the mountainside lies the crash site of the “Liberator Harry,” a military aircraft that crashed into the mountain range in 1943. Remnants and interpretive signs help visitors understand the events and grasp the magnitude of this tragedy, which claimed the lives of 24 servicemen.
The hike then continues to the summit of the Montagne Noire, which rises to nearly 890 m. An 11-meter-tall observation tower allows you to gain a little more elevation and take in a 360-degree view of the landscape, with the Saint-Donat and Laurentian mountains stretching out on the horizon.
With more than 12 km to cover and a long climb, this hike requires good stamina. Allow enough time to enjoy the historic site, the viewpoints, and the summit before heading back down toward Régimbald Road.
Access to the trail:
The trailhead is at Parking Lot P1 on Chemin Régimbald in Saint-Donat, near Lake Archambault. The parking lot’s coordinates are approximately 46.2601, -74.2495. From Route 329, take Chemin Régimbald to the parking lot marked as part of the Réseau Inter-Centre. The trail to Montagne Noire begins right here. Download the trail network map in Ondago before you set out, as several trails and alternate routes intersect in this area.
