In Lanaudière, there are plenty of trails for a leisurely stroll… but also plenty to push you a little further. The trails listed below are for those looking for a challenge: longer distances, steeper climbs, strenuous sections, and hikes that require good physical fitness.
Here are the 10 most beautiful hiking trails in Lanaudière, where you'll reach the most beautiful peaks and breathtaking viewpoints.
MONTAGNE NOIRE | SAINT-DONAT
This is probably the most legendary hike in Lanaudière. At 875 meters above sea level, Montagne Noire offers a challenge that lives up to its reputation. Over the course of about 13 km, you’ll trek through a dense forest before reaching the famous lookout at the summit. As a bonus, you’ll pass by the site of a 1943 plane crash, adding a unique historical dimension to the experience. Demanding, but unforgettable.
Level: difficult
Number of kilometers: 13 km loop
Dogs welcome
Download trail map
MONT BRASSARD TRAIL | PARC RÉGIONAL DES SEPT-CHUTES, SAINT-ZÉNON
If you’re looking for elevation gain and spectacular views, Mont Brassard has it all. The trail climbs over 600 meters and winds along impressive rocky headlands with views of Lake Rémi. The uphill sections are challenging, but every bit of effort is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. A classic for those who love a good workout.
Level: intermediate
Number of kilometers: 8.5 km loop
Dogs welcome
Download trail map
Mont Barrière | Parc régional des Sept-Chutes, Saint-Zénon
Less well-known than its neighbor, Mont Brassard, Mont Barrière is nonetheless a great challenge. The climb is steady and requires good stamina, but once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the region. It’s the kind of hike that pushes you to keep up the pace… all the way to the summit.
Level: Intermediate
Distance: 6.7 km loop
Dogs allowed
Download the trail map
Sentiers du Lac Kaël | Sainte-Émélie-de-l'Énergie
If you’re looking for a challenging hike with plenty of distance and varied terrain, the trails at Lac Kaël are a sure bet. The trail network offers about 14 km of trails in the heart of nature, with several options such as the Minaki, Côte à Monette, Maskana, and Onikam trails, all connected by the Sentier national. Expect hilly terrain, more technical sections, and several scenic overlooks along the way. Access is at the intersection of Route 131 and Rang 4, in Sainte-Émélie-de-l’Énergie.
Level: Intermediate
Distance: up to 14 km
Dogs allowed
Download the trail map
SENTIER DES CONTREFORTS, OUAREAU FOREST REGIONAL PARK (FOOTHILLS SECTOR)
This trail is a real gem for those who love a bit of an uphill climb. With an elevation gain of about 170 meters, it offers a good challenge over a relatively short distance. The views from the summit are particularly impressive, especially in the fall. It’s the perfect hike to test your legs without committing to a full day out.
Level: intermediate
Number of kilometers: 6 km (round trip)
Dogs welcome
Download trail map
CAP DE LA FÉE | SAINT-DONAT
Don’t let its enchanting name fool you: Cap de la Fée still requires a fair amount of effort. After an easier first section leading up to the shelter, the climb to the summit becomes steeper. Once you reach the top, the view of Lake Archambault and the surrounding mountains is well worth the effort. A hike that strikes a perfect balance between enjoyment and challenge.
Level: intermediate
Number of kilometers: 6 km loop
Dogs welcome
Download trail map
MOUNT OUAREAU SUMMIT | NOTRE-DAME-DE-LA-MERCI
This trail takes you from Lake Ouareau to Lake Archambault, passing by the impressive summit of Mont Ouareau at an elevation of 692 meters. Just 2.5 km from the parking lot, you’ll reach the first viewpoint, offering a breathtaking panoramic view. Another viewpoint, 1 km before the summit, overlooks Lake Ouareau and is worth the detour in any season. If you have the energy, continue to the end of this 13.1-km section of the National Trail for a complete immersion in Lanaudière’s natural beauty.
Level: intermediate
Number of kilometers: 5 km (round trip)
Dogs welcome
Download trail map
LES GRANDES-VALLÉES | MONT-TREMBLANT NATIONAL PARK (L'ASSOMPTION SECTOR)
The Grandes-Vallées trail is short, but don't underestimate it. Over 4.6 km, you’ll tackle a series of steady climbs with elevation gain that quickly takes its toll. Located in the Assomption sector, the trail leads you to an unobstructed viewpoint overlooking the valley, offering a good workout concentrated over a shorter distance. It’s an excellent option if you’re looking for an effective challenge without committing to a long day.
Level: Intermediate
Distance: 4.6 km (round trip)
No dogs allowed
Download the trail map
For hikes that take several days to complete
La Grande Boucle Zen Nature | Sainte-Émélie-de-l’Énergie
If you’re looking for a long, challenging hike, the Grande Boucle Zen Nature is an excellent choice. This route combines several trails to offer a more complete experience, featuring plenty of distance, elevation gain, and extended time spent in the forest.
It’s the kind of loop you choose when you want to spend several hours outdoors, maintain a good pace, and tackle a series of climbs and technical sections. Less crowded than other classics, it also offers a peaceful setting where you can completely unwind.
Level: intermediate / difficult
Distance: 65 km
Dogs allowed
Download the trail map
GRANDE BOUCLE DES HAUTS SOMMETS | SAINT-DONAT
The Grande Boucle des Sommets is clearly designed for hikers looking for a long-distance challenge. This route offers a long loop with several consecutive climbs, significant elevation gain, and sections that test your endurance. Here, it’s not just about reaching a single summit: you’ll pass through a series of scenic overlooks and ridgelines, keeping the pace steady from start to finish. It’s an excellent option if you want to rack up elevation gain and test your ability to sustain effort over several kilometres.
Level: difficult
Distance: 70 km
Dogs allowed
Download the trail map
THE NATIONAL TRAIL
With over 170 km of trails, the National Trail crosses the Lanaudière region and offers elevation gain, distance, and a true immersion in nature. You can hike sections of it for a day or set out for several days. Several trails, such as the Lac Kael and Swaggin trails, connect to it. It’s the perfect choice if you want to rack up the miles and test your endurance, not just reach a summit.
Level: intermediate / difficult
Distance: 170 km
Dogs allowed
Download the trail map
Ready to take on the challenge? Discover even more trails for seasoned hikers and plan your next outing here.
