Lanaudière is a prime destination for trail running enthusiasts, offering a breathtaking variety of landscapes. From verdant forests to rugged mountains, picturesque lakes and rivers, the diversity of trail running terrain is a real treat for adventure-seeking athletes.
Here are our suggestions for trails to discover on your next outing.
Parc du Grand-Côteau – Mascouche
Adventure hiking or family outings, both are possible on the trails of this Mascouche park. Two easy routes (La Persévérante and L'Intense) are perfect for a family outing. If you're looking for a more challenging run, there are also routes with gradients ranging from 34 to 36 meters.
Whether you're looking to explore the park's natural beauty with the whole family, or for a sporting challenge that's sure to thrill, there's a variety of trails to suit all levels. Dogs are also welcome, but must be kept on a leash on certain trails.
Sentier des Contreforts – Parc régional de la Forêt Ouareau
A choice hike offering exciting challenges and breathtaking panoramas. There are many ups and downs, making it less suitable for beginners. Hiking poles are recommended to tackle some of the steeper parts of the trail. Water is readily available using a suitable filter or water treatment along the way.
This trail will enchant you with its peaceful cedar forest, rocky peaks offering spectacular views, and even a charming heart-shaped lake to refresh you after your days of hiking. An unforgettable adventure in the heart of nature awaits you on the sentier des Contreforts.
Parc des Pionniers – Saint-Donat
Discover this 3.4 km itinerary which is very popular with hikers. Generally considered a moderate hike, it will take you an average of 1 hour to complete. This loop in Parc des Pionniers takes you to the summit of Colline de la Mine, offering magnificent views of Mont La Réserve. The panoramas from the mine are impressive, making this a most enjoyable walk.
The hike has a moderate to sustained elevation throughout, making it accessible to all levels of walker. In winter, it's even possible to snowshoe to enjoy the snow-covered splendor of the region.
Want to extend your hike? Go to the La Donatienne trail, a 5.6 km loop. In winter, it's even possible to snowshoe here to enjoy the region's snow-covered splendors.
Sentier du Lac Simon – Saint-Donat
This trail is a real gem, offering an ideal hiking experience for the whole family, friends or solo hikers to recharge their batteries in the heart of nature. Mostly flat, it allows you to fully immerse yourself in the surrounding beauty while enjoying a most pleasant stroll.
An 8.2 km loop of generally moderate difficulty, it takes an average of 2 hours to complete. Popular with hikers, snowshoers and runners alike, access is possible all year round, and each season brings its own wonders. In summer, the trails reveal picturesque panoramas, while winter offers a magical experience with snow-covered trees.
What's more, your faithful four-legged friend is welcome to join you, provided he's on a leash. You can also take a break near the Le Branchu refuge or decide to spend the night there to extend your stay.
Kinadapt – Rawdon
Trail running with dogs? It's possible with this Rawdon-based company, which offers not only sledding excursions, but also guided hikes with dogs. Accompanied by their experienced guides, set out to discover the trails with one of their enthusiastic dog families. Before starting your adventure, you'll benefit from a preparatory meeting on the customs of their pack and essential safety rules.
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner, they'll select the group of dogs that best suits your level and preferences. The hike can also be done as a trail run - the dogs will be all the happier for it!
Sentier des Cinq Chutes – Saint-Donat
This trail invites you to take a superb stroll along the Ouareau River, to discover its many waterfalls and rich flora and fauna. This trail plunges you into a magical forest, where stones dotting the ground, intertwined roots, moss and mini-grottoes create a magical atmosphere. Follow the red markers to stay on the trail, or venture off the beaten track and create your own path.
With few elevation changes and plenty of picnic spots, this hike is ideal for families with experienced children. On hot days, feel free to dip your feet in the water to cool off at several points along the river. What's more, this is one of the few trips where you don't have to climb a mountain.
Don't forget to take your mosquito repellent with you, especially during peak insect season, and equip yourself with walking sticks to help you get through any muddy areas.
La boucle du Parc récréotouristique de Saint-Lin-Laurentides – Saint-Lin-Laurentides
This is the ideal trail for a short, flat run that will appeal to hikers of all levels. This picturesque 3.1 km route will take you through beautiful forest trails, allowing you to immerse yourself in lush green nature. The area is also a pleasant surprise for summer enthusiasts, with a beautiful, tranquil beach where you can relax and soak up the sun.
To help you find your way around, the trails are well-marked, so you can concentrate on the pleasure of running without worrying about getting lost.
Parc régional des Sept-Chutes – Saint-Zénon
Sept-Chutes Regional Park offers some of the finest views in the Matawinie region. A classic for hiking in the region, it features breathtaking scenery of the Laurentian Mountains.
Parc régional des Sept-Chutes has 10 itineraries to explore, and there really is something for everyone. If you're looking for a bit of elevation gain, you're in for a treat! The Zen Nature Loop offers you the most impressive vertical drop with a total of 2,195 metres. The Sept-Chutes Loop, meanwhile, offers 596 metres of vertical drop. These trails promise an exciting adventure, with challenging climbs and exhilarating descents, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
Whether you're a seasoned hiker looking for a thrill, or simply want to push yourself to the limit, these routes are sure to meet your expectations.
Whether for the physical benefits, the pleasure of discovery or simply to recharge your batteries, trail running in Lanaudière offers an unforgettable experience for all enthusiasts looking for an adventure in the heart of nature.
For more information on the various trails to discover in Lanaudière, please visit HERE .
