With fall just around the corner and the sweltering summer heat finally starting to break, it’s the perfect time to immerse yourself in nature. Contrary to popular belief, hiking doesn’t have to be expensive and inaccessible; you can even find some lovely spots that are easy to reach by public transit on the island of Montreal. If you’re looking for camping gear or to go on a group trip, the McGill Outdoors Club offers affordable equipment rentals, guided outings, workshops, and even an outdoor frosh. Buses, ride-sharing services, and renting a Communauto are all great options to get outside on a budget. If you choose to rent a car, remember that the more friends you invite the less each person will need to pay. Without further ado, here is a breakdown of some of the best hiking spots within an hour of McGill.
Distance from campus: 10 minutes by foot
Entrance fee: None
While not exactly a hidden gem or a secluded experience given its proximity to downtown, Mont-Royal is a beautiful and convenient way to escape to nature without veering too far from campus. In total there are around 30 kilometres worth of trails on the mountain, meaning one can explore for hours. As a bonus, running and hiking groups frequent the trails—making it the perfect place to get in some movement with friends.
Parc-nature de l’Île-de-la-Visitation
Distance from campus: 1 hour by public transit or 35 minutes by car
Entrance fee: None
Also in Montreal, but less well known, is the Parc-nature de I’Île-de-la-Visitation. It follows the Rivière des Prairies for over 8 kilometres, providing gorgeous views of the water. There are also plenty of historical buildings, such as the Maison du Pressoir, along the way if you’re one to stop and read a plaque or two. Keep in mind, however, that the park is more urban than Mont-Royal and you are likely to see many other people during your stroll.
Parc national du Mont-Saint-Bruno
Distance from campus: 35 minutes by car
Entrance fee: $9.55
With beautiful lakes and over 30 kilometres of trails, Parc national du Mont-Saint-Bruno is a great option if you are looking for a more private experience than you could get within city limits but don’t want to sacrifice too much time on the commute. There are also paddle board and canoe rentals if you fancy a dip in the lake.
Parc national des Îles-de-Boucherville
Distance from campus: 35 minutes by car
Entrance fee: $9.55
At the Parc national des Îles-de-Boucherville, 21 kilometres of trails weave through five islands in the middle of the St. Lawrence. Biking, sea kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boarding are all fan favourites on the islands—and the park rents out equipment. There are even campsites that you can reserve if you want to stay the night!
Distance from campus: 40 minutes by car
Entrance fee: $5.50 (for students)
Operated by McGill and located on the Macdonald Campus, the Morgan Arboretum has a web of roughly 20 kilometres of hiking trails. This is an especially great option if you are interested in horticulture and like the idea of seeing a wide variety of flora and fauna while on the trail.
Distance from campus: 1 hour by car
Entrance fee: $9.55
Operated by McGill, the Gault Nature Reserve offers 25 kilometres of trails and a variety of hikes for every skill level. Hiking up Mont-Saint-Hilaire provides beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including Lac Hertel. You might even see a McGill scientist in the wild!
Distance from campus: 1 hour by car
Entrance fee: $9.55
With over 28 kilometres of trails and an impressive beach, Parc national d’Oka has something for everyone. The park offers paddleboard, kayak, and bike rentals for those interested, and there are a plethora of campsites if you’re looking to stay the night. Before visiting, read up on the history of the 1990 Oka Crisis—a 78-day standoff between Mohawk protesters and members of the Quebec police, RCMP, and Canadian Army over the proposed development of a golf course in Kanesatake. The land in question has never gone back to the Mohawks of Kanesatake. It’s important to know the history of where you go before you go.
