Escaping the city is easier than you think when you’re in Montreal.
There is incredible hiking, day tripping and even a lavender field that will make you feel like you’re in Provence—all just a short drive from the city. We’ve got epic, giant floating water parks nearby, and a slew of sandy, sun-soaked beaches in and just outside of the city (some of which are even accessible by metro).
But if you’re craving endless green space—and looking for an immersive experience in the great outdoors—spending some time in one of Quebec’s national parks is the ideal getaway.
Quebec National Parks Day on Saturday, September 10, means admission to Quebec’s National Parks will be free. There will be special programming available across the different parks, so make sure to reserve as the number of participants is limited.
With 24 national parks across Quebec, here are some of the programming highlights from ones that are the closest to downtown Montreal:
Parc national d'Oka, an hour and 20 minute drive from Montreal, has organized fat bikes, kayaking, paddle boarding, pedal boats and an ultimate frisbee tournament (think: 70 teams!). It’s also worth noting that this park is also home to one of the province’s best beaches.
Just a few kilometres from Montreal, Parc national du Mont-Saint-Bruno is hosting educational sessions about birds of prey that will teach you how to discern the difference between hawks, falcons and sparrowhawks based on their silhouette and in-flight behaviour.
At Parc national du Mont-Orford, a short drive from Montreal to the Eastern Townships, is where you can meet a park warden who will spill his wilderness secrets about everything from peregrine falcons to brook trout.
For more information about Quebec National Parks day, click here.
RECOMMENDED:
21 best Montreal parks to explore
Top 26 hiking trails in and around Montreal
Top beaches on and off the island of Montreal