In November, the trees are bare, the sky is often gray, and the snow is slow to arrive. Yet it is the perfect time to reconnect with nature... in complete tranquility.
In Lanaudière, hiking trails are often less crowded at this time of year. All of the following suggestions are accessible in November and allow dogs on leashes. Ready to lace up your boots?
Warning: Before you leave, check that the trail is open. Some trails close temporarily during hunting season, so keep an eye out for signs and information on park websites. And remember to wear brightly colored clothing—it's better to be visible!
1. CHUTE-À-BULL REGIONAL PARK | SAINT-CÔME
November is the perfect month to hear the Boule River roar without any other noise around. The 20-meter waterfall remains spectacular, even without the fall colors. Conifers line the trail, and the lookout offers a soothing view of the sleeping forest. At 6 km, it's an accessible loop, ideal for a family outing... or just to unwind a little.
2. MONT SOURIRE | SAINT-DONAT
Even under gray skies, Mont Sourire lives up to its name. In just a few steps (only 1 km), you reach a peaceful viewpoint overlooking the valley. The air is crisp, the light is soft, and you often have the trail to yourself. It's a hike that's good for the soul. And if you feel inspired, continue on to the refuge to prolong this break in the calm of November.
3. SEPT-CHUTES REGIONAL PARK | SAINT-ZÉNON
There is something mystical about walking the Mont Brassard trail in November. Fog sometimes clings to the conifers, lakes sparkle between bare branches, and each step takes you higher toward a view that can make you dizzy. This 8.5 km trail requires a bit of effort, but the 600 m summit rewards you with a view of silent, untamed nature.
4. MONTAGNE NOIRE | SAINT-DONAT
At 875 meters, Montagne Noire offers one of the most beautiful immersions into a Lanaudière in transition. November reveals a bare, raw, almost cinematic landscape. The silence is profound, the trails are quiet, and the story of Liberator Harry at the summit adds a touch of reverence to this long 13-km round-trip hike. It's an outing that leaves a lasting impression.
5. MONT-TREMBLANT NATIONAL PARK | SAINT-DONAT
The Pimbina-Saint-Donat sector of Mont-Tremblant National Park is accessible a few kilometers from the village of Saint-Donat. The trail leading to Chute-aux-Rats takes on a different atmosphere in November: hushed, peaceful, almost secretive. The 10 km round trip is easy, without too much elevation gain, and at the foot of the falls, you can settle down for a picnic.
6. CHUTES-MONTE-À-PEINE-ET-DES-DALLES REGIONAL PARK
The fallen leaves give way to rocks, moss, and exposed roots. This is where you rediscover the park in a whole new light. The falls roar louder after the fall rains, and the bridges allow you to admire them from every angle. In November, you'll encounter few people but plenty of beauty. It's the perfect season to feel the true power of the L'Assomption River.
