26 free hiking trails in Quebec | VIFA Magazine, Visorando: hiking ideas, mountain biking, racket,.
Last routes
Located in the Grosse-Île sector, this reserve conceals typical habitats from the islands of the-Madeleine: beaches, dunes, lagoons and saline prairies. It includes three trails with a total length of 14 kilometers. It is an important migratory stopover which houses more than 150 species of birds. We can also observe seals.
26 free hiking trails in Quebec
Doing physical outdoor activity for free is possible! Family hike is great! Here are 26 sites with walking trails to discover the beauties of Quebec nature.
Marie-Claude Ouellet
Before going on an adventure, always validate the opening of the trails and above all, respect the safety and conservation instructions for trails.
Free hike in Montérégie
1. Mount Rigaud
Mount Rigaud is a 207 -meter altitude hill traveled with 27 kilometers long trails. You can go hiking, running and horse riding. Twenty-five interpretation panels dealing with fauna, flora and geology of the premises were installed along the trails.
2. Lac-Saint-François national reserve of fauna
This wildlife reserve invites you to explore its 1,400 acres! Four pedestrian trails ranging from 0.8 to 3.7 km offer you the opportunity to discover natural environments to unique ecosystems. By crossing the conifers forest and the wetlands of this preserved area, we can observe a multitude of birds, amphibians and fish in their natural habitats. There are even panoramic observation towers!
Dogs on a leash are accepted.
Free hike in Gaspésie
3. The UNESCO Global Geoparc de Percé
This enchanting place allows you to discover the particular geology of the Percé region. It includes fifteen kilometers of walking trails. From Mont Sainte-Anne, the views of the pierced rock are striking! This mountain also includes a glass platform suspended at 200 meters above sea level (check accessibility before your visit). The geoparc offers excursions of geology, camping and a zip line.
Free hike in Mauricie
4. Melville Island Park
With its 15 kilometers of trails, this park allows you to immerse yourself in nature and discover the powerful falls of the Devil Trou. You can practice other activities ($): tree, campsite and boats rental (canoe, kayak, pedal boat).
Free hike in the Eastern Cantons
5. The marsh of the Cherry River
The cherry river marshes is a fabulous place to walk. Located halfway between Mont-Orford National Park and Lake Memphremagog, this park offers trails that cross a mixed forest, a giving up. A 6 -meter high observation tower allows you to admire the landscape. The marsh is a place of choice to observe birds, amphibians and reptiles. You can also practice kayak on site.
6. The paths of Mont Bélanger
Dare you go up in the observation tower? We suggest the 5 -kilometer trail for a family hike. Starting from the parking lot a little higher, you can reduce the distance from your ascent, while enjoying the view. Entrance is free, but you can leave a voluntary contribution.
Free hike in Montreal
7. The Rapids Park
Urban people often seek hiking near Montreal. By visiting this park, we walk around the tumultuous rapid Lachine, an important element of our natural and historical heritage. This island of tranquility constitutes a refuge of migratory birds. Naturalists from the Laurentian heritage organization are on site to answer questions from visitors.
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Free hike in Îles-de-la-Madeleine
8. The Eastern Power Land Reserve
Located in the Grosse-Île sector, this reserve conceals typical habitats from the islands of the-Madeleine: beaches, dunes, lagoons and saline prairies. It includes three trails with a total length of 14 kilometers. It is an important migratory stopover which houses more than 150 species of birds. We can also observe seals.
Free hike in Bas-Saint-Laurent
9. Cotton mountain
In Saint-Pascal, in the Kamouraska region, is the mountain in cotton. This was baptized according to Cotton Father, a hermit who lived there in the 1850s. A fairly steep kilometer trail climbs to the top located 150 meters above sea level. Five belvedères offer very beautiful views of Saint-Pascal, agricultural lands, river and the mountains of Charlevoix. A good place to admire the sunset!
Free hike in Charlevoix
10. The Charlevoix massif
This ski center includes a dozen kilometers of walking trails through the Charlevoisian forest. Belvedères make it possible to admire the panorama: mountains as far as the eye can see and majestic St. Lawrence River. These trails communicate with the Charlevoix Caps Trail and the National Trail, beautiful long hikes.
11. Quai wooded path
Near Baie-Saint-Paul, you can travel these 2.5 kilometers of path. Beach, dune and forest await you. Despite the length of the path, you will not be disappointed to see a wide variety of plants and, perhaps even, birds! An observation tower has been furnished to allow you to observe a pretty marsh.
By taking rue Saint-Anne (in the city center, near the church) you will need 2 kilometers to arrive at the quay.
Free hike in Laval
12. Rivière-des-Mille-Îles park
This greenery oasis has four ecosystems: the forest, the river and its islands, the marshes and the swamp. You can visit this park by taking its 10 kilometers of trails or by renting a canoe or a kayak. Due to the great biodiversity it conceals, the park of the Rivière-des-Mille-Îles received the status of wildlife refuge.
Free hike in Abitibi
13. The Millennium Roche Trail
The rock which gives its name to the path is a huge erratic block weighing 250 tonnes. This was torn from the mountain and left on the spot by the passage of a glacier. Throughout the route, interpretation panels provide information about fauna, flora and geology of the region. Near the trail, an observation tower 20 meters high allows you to see the lakes and the surrounding forest.
Free hike in the Laurentians
14. UQAM outdoor center
Property of the University of Quebec Sports Center in Montreal, this hiking center in the Laurentides is located on the banks of the Archambault river. It has 25 kilometers of trails of variable difficulties, some of which offer beautiful views of Mont-Tremblant and Lake Rossignol. The Archambault fall is the main attraction of the center. You can also practice camping and swimming at the foot of the fall.
Hiking at Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean
15. Kenogami’s pedestrian trail
This place offers 41 kilometers of free hiking crisscrosses crisscrossing mixed and boreal forests. Some paths lead to lakes, rivers and streams, while others allow you to admire Lake Kénogami and the Plaine du Lac Saint-Jean. A 23 -meter -long suspension bridge spans the Cyriac river. In addition, a self -contained nacelle unique in Quebec makes it possible to cross the 100 meters which separate the two banks from the Pikauba river. Rustic refuges and locations are available.
16. Eucher path
The Eucher path is a real wonder in the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region. The long fjord, this hiking trail begins at La Marina de la Baie and leads you to the Centennial Cross by offering superb panoramic views, especially on the Baie des Ha ! Ha !
The path is a round trip and is divided into several sections of different lengths and difficulties: 2.9 km, 6.4 km and 15.5 km.
Free hike on the North Shore
17. The wood of Pointe St-Gilles
This woody located in the heart of Baie-Comeau includes around fifteen trails totaling 11 kilometers. This place is embellished with wood sculptures, interpretation panels and a duck pond. Overlooking the St. Lawrence River, it allows walkers to observe seals and sea birds. Access to battures and Champlain beach.
Do you know other free accessible walking trails? It’s a great family activity to discover!
Free hike in Lanaudière
18. Swaggin trail
For families with young children, nothing better than admiring the Swaggin river and its pretty waterfalls in this slightly steep path. A gateway even allows you to admire the L’Assomption river. If your children are more enduring, attack yourself at the top of the edge mountain to admire the light lake (8 kilometers go only).
19. The fairy course
The Cap de la Fée offers three intermediate level trails. By following the path called “detour that is worth it”, you will discover a charming little waterfall. At the top, at an altitude of 625 meters, you can’t help but stop to admire the landscape offering a magnificent view of Lake Archambault and Mont Garceau!
The trails are loops and dogs are accepted.
Free hike in James Bay
20. Recreational area of Lake Matagami
Here, there is something for everyone! You will find various free hiking trails. Nature changes and allows you to admire coniferous, taiga and tundra forests. You could even see traces of wolves or lynx; Open the eye! The hills trail, 3km’s length, is very suitable for families. More difficult courses for experienced hikers are also offered.
Take the Baie-James route and refer to the cards for the various entries in kilometers 10, 12, and 18.
Free hike in Outaouais
21. The Mount Morissette trail
Looking for a hike with a breathtaking view? It’s here! Arrived at the top of Mont Morissette (after 2.1 kilometers), you can access an old observation tower for forest fires that will make you climb 400 meters above sea level.
Free hike in Center-du-Québec
22. Grande-Coulée Regional Park
It is a must if you visit the region! In addition to its free access, beginner level trails are accessible for the whole family. Dogs are even admitted to it as a leash. Two sectors are accessible, those of the old forest and the large peat bog (dogs prohibited in this sector). We recommend that of the old forest, since it will give you access to hebertism modules, and a refuge to rest.
23. Mont Arthabaska
The Mont Arthabaska Park, located near Victoriaville, offers ten kilometers of free wooded trails (parking too is free!)). The Grand Tour, a distance of 3.3 km, leads the hikers to the top of the mountain, where a belvedere offers magnificent views of the region. There are also mountain bicycle trails there.
This hike is ideal for families and is particularly pleasant in the fall! Dogs held on a leash are welcome.
Free hike in boiler-appeal
24. Tour of the Boiler Falls Park
5 kilometers away, it is a perfect hiking trail to admire the view of the Family Chaudière Falls. Go on the hanging gateway to admire the view 23 meters high.
Free hike in Quebec
25. Stoneham tourism station
Hikers are welcomed for free at the Stoneham tourist resort. Take advantage of the 9.5 -kilometer station loop to discover a magnificent panorama. About half the route, you will arrive at the top of the mountain. A great activity for hikers who have fairly solid legs.
26. The Mestachibo National Trail
With a distance of 12.5 km, Mestashibo is a magnificent path to explore in the Quebec region. Nestled in the heart of the forest, he runs along and crosses the Sainte-Anne river twice thanks to suspended gateways. Two belvederes also offer a breathtaking view of the canyon during the course. Finally, the impressive Jean-Larose falls mark the end of this hike.
The Mestashibo trail can be traveled in the two directions, either from Saint-Ferréol-les-Neiges, or from St-Tite-des-Caps and the reception of the Caps Caps.
Notice to hikers : The Mestashibo trail, although designed to facilitate walking, presents significant elevations and uneven ground. It is necessary to be in good physical condition to undertake this course!
Last routes
Visorandman
20.35 km +553 m -552 m 2h30 average
Departure in La Chapelle-d’Alonance (74-Haute-Savoie)
A nice mixed stroll, between paths and roads, winding between the chapel of abundance and Châtel. This fairly rolling hike is accessible to teenagers regularly practicing mountain biking.
Along the Wihr-au-Val fecht at Schnepfenried
Visorandman
54.24 km +1,040 m -1 035 m 5 hours average
Departure in Wihr-au-Val (68-Haut-Rhin)
It is a walk in the Val Saint-Grégoire which in places runs along the Fecht until reaching the heights of the Schnepfenried. The ascent at the Schnepfenried is done by taking sometimes stony forest paths. The descent on Mittlach follows the same type of path. The rest is done on road or cycle routes.
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Laurens castle, Agde from Montblanc
Visorandman
34.68 km +61 m -60 m 2:30 easy
Departure in Montblanc (34 – Hérault)
Route taking the new cycle path with a return by the right bank of the Hérault.
Tour du Haut Vallon de Magnan by Saint-Pancrace and the hamlet of the Sirole
Visorandman
6.89 km +313 m -305 m 2h50 average
Departure in Nice (06 – Alpes -Maritimes)
This easy and partially in the undergrowth hike goes up the right bank of the Haut Vallon de Magnan by the bridge and the Chemin du Génie to Saint-Pancrace to pass the right bank by the Pommier bridge. After the Pont du Pommier and after having crossed the road to Sirole, you join the Bergiade Crêtes chemin and the Bergiade Chemin to descend the right bank Le Vallon de Magnan and join the boulevard de la Madeleine, after crossing the Ravin des Vallières. This hike can be combined with the exploration of the Sourns Vallons de Magnan and the Ravin des Vallières.
The L’Orée des Bois circuit in Riaillé
Visorandman
9.17 km +23 m -23 m 2h40 Easy
Departure in Riaillé (44 – Loire -Atlantique)
Quite easy hike leading you to see different landscapes, either large pastures or cultivated fields, or the passage through a beautiful forest. Lots of beautiful paths, a little bit of a road, enough to stretch your legs.
Guillec trail
Association or club
10.32 km +91 m -82 m 3:15 Easy
Departure in Plouzévédé (29 – Finistère)
Undergrowth, beautiful views of the Guillec valley, cultures that vary according to the seasons. Fuchsia pink marked circuit. 10 km circuit with a possible shortcut to 6 km.
Wandering in the Reims of yesterday and today
Visorandman
8.34 km +15 m -15 m 2h25 Easy
Departure in Reims (51 – Marne)
The city of Reims occupies a special place in the history of France and in that of Europe. This urban circuit mixes masterpieces of Romanesque art such as Saint-Rémi basilica and Gothic art like Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the characteristic art deco architecture of the reconstruction of the city after the first world War.
Cranou forest tour
Visorandman
13.83 km +263 m -252 m 4:40
Departure in Le Faou (29 – Finistère)
Located in the Armoric regional park, it is the largest state forest in Finistère. Hilly, with its secular beech beech trees, crossed by the GR®37 and the Compostela Chemin, it is a privileged place for hikers.
Grand Tour of Iwuy
Visorandman
8.54 km +21 m -21 m 2h30 easy
Departure in Iwuy (59 – North)
This hike makes it possible to tour the city and the communal park (old stately domain) with its pond.
Warndt buttonhole variant in Varsberg
Visorandman
9.12 km +290 m -288 m 3h25 average
Departure in Varsberg (57 – Moselle)
Start from Varsberg mainly taking the hiking layout “La Boutonnière du Warndt”. Passage via the statue of the Virgin.
From Lake Alfeld to the Gorges de la Seebach
Visorandman
7.54 km +325 m -319 m 3h05 average
Departure in Sewen (68 – Haut -Rhin)
After having a music along Lake Alfeld, we take height by following the Issenbach Canal. Crossing a moraine reminds us that we are in granitic ground. The arrival at the Issenbach refuge brings back to the joy of a picnic on a grassy terrace facing the Sewen valley or further from a meal on the Auberge farm in Baerenbach. Then the ascent along the Seebach is magical with its little gorges cashed with multiple small waterfalls.
The Tour of Beaucourt-en-Santerre
Visorandman
10.57 km +36 m -36 m 3:05
Departure in Beaucourt-en-Santerre (80-Somme)
This hike is close to the hike offered on the site of the community of communes Avre Luce Noye (CCALN) and entitled “Les Vallées en Santerre”. It follows from the desire of the commission for consolidating the municipality to offer a hiking itinerary on its territory. This route makes it possible to visualize all the diversity of the landscapes of the town of Beaucourt-en-Santerre. We follow the bottom of the Znieff n ° 220014514 which bears the name of “Larris de la Vallée du Bois Péronne”.
Between Guillaumes and Sauze by the monumental rock holes
Visorandman
12.10 km +751 m -748 m 5h35 difficult
Departure in Guillaumes (06 – Alpes -Maritimes)
Very beautiful hike in the forest with the discovery of a monumental arch, fifteen meters high, witness of a distant geological past and Sauze, a small mountain village isolated from the 13th century, whose surroundings are still cultivated by a few irreducible peasants.
The chapel of Sauze Vieux and its wooden table will be a place appreciated for a lunch break, opposite Mont Saint-Honorat.
Three -day stay in Val de Sos
Visorandman
48.57 km +3,559 m -3 446 m 3 days difficult
Departure in Auzat (09 – Ariège)
The first day in semi-loop is to climb to the ponds of Bassiès.
The second day is very sporty with an important slope that allows access to the peak of the Sarrasi.
The third day with a substantial elevation, provides access to the first pond of Neych.
Black pond circuit
Visorandman
6.94 km +166 m -166 m 2h25 Easy
Departure in Ramonchamp (88 – Vosges)
From the Grammont farm, the path leads you to the Belvedere of the black pond then walks from pond in pond, runs a peat up, crosses a pond on a wooden bridge leading to a chalet, on the occasion of A shaded and very easy stroll. As a bonus of pretty views of the Vosges and the Thillot valley.
The Puy de Sancy looped by the funicular and the cable car
Visorandman
12.28 km +804 m -799 m 5:50
Departure in Mont-Dore (63-Puy-de-Dôme)
A slightly lightened variant in elevation, by climbing by the Capuchin funicular to Mont Dore and descending from the Sancy by the cable car. By removing the rise of the funicular and the descent by cable car, there are only about 600 m of D+ and 400 of D-.
A path for the Putzubeltz waterfall since Arantza
Visorandman
11.56 km +557 m -557 m 4:55 Average
Departure in Arantza (Province of Navarra)
A beautiful hike to discover many waterfalls, the most famous of which is that of Putzubeltz. The path, often in the forest, follows many rivers and we are always accompanied by the sound of water.
But part of the route takes place on a very small path on the mountainside, which can impress people dizzy. In addition, we are going through many rivers to fork which can be difficult after periods of rain.
Passage from Picheru and Col de la Bailletaz from Val-d’Isère
Visorandman
16.95 km +1,420 m -1 421 m 8:55
Departure in Val -d’Isère (73 – Savoie)
Quite physical hike to appreciate the Grande Sassière nature reserve, as well as the Bailletaz nature reserve via two passes. The journey offers very beautiful views on the needle of the Grande Sassière and the Tsanteleina to the north.
The route crossing two natural reserves, please respect the tranquility of fauna.
Yellow marking and panel.
Granier by the southwest strap
Visorandman
9.50 km +1 194 m -1 189 m 6:10
Departure in Entremont-le-Vieux (73-Savoie)
You’ve already made Granier many times and look for a wilder option ? It’s the topo you need ! After joining the balm in Columbus, you branch out on a strap before returning, then, by a wild path on the set. You will come across few people and will have a masterful view of the Pinet and the valley in particular !
Large Rognes Tour in the Saint-Marcellin chapel
Visorandman
10.09 km +147 m -141 m 3:20
Departure in Rognes (13-Bouches-du-Rhône)
A nice walk through the vineyards (and the poppies if it’s the right season), which begins in Rognes, to go to the start of the “Crêtes”, then which returns by the Saint-Marcelin chapel.
Round trip to Fiuminale, ruined village
Visorandman
5.39 km +278 m -279 m 2h20 average
Departure in Velone-Orneto (2b-Haute-Corse)
Shaded stroll along the Canapajo stream to the ruins of the village of Fiuminale rehabilitated village, accessible only on foot, on donkey or on horseback. Round trip.
De Bois Guillaume in Houlme by the Green State Forest
Visorandman
18.54 km +431 m -437 m 6:30
Departure in Houppeville (76 – Seine -Maritime)
A 90% forest loop which links the hamlet of Bretque to Houlme; Those who know the region will be surprised to join the Houlme as quickly. The return is longer; It is carried out by the heights of Malaunay and the bypass of Houppeville
Ideal hike when the sun hits because the route is almost always in the shade, which can be classified in difficult level due to three difficulties linked to the relief.
Saint-Chély du Tarn and Mont Verzy
Visorandman
15.61 km +767 m -765 m 6:40
Departure in Mas-Saint-Chély (48-Lozère)
This Caussenarde hike is available in two very distinct parts. The first, very classic, crosses the circus of Saint-Chély and leads to the charming village which gave it its no, emblematic site of the Tarn gorges. The second, more original and much less frequented, goes back on the Causse Méjean to discover Mont Servy. This unjustly unknown summit peaking at 1105 m above sea level offers an exceptional panorama alone justifying the circuit undertaken.
Albaroise loop
TOURIST OFFICE
10.00 km +128 m -132 m 3:15 Average
Departure at La Chapelle -Aubareil (24 – Dordogne)
Stroll in the heart of black Périgord. At the start of the hike, you will cross a pleasant undergrowth with the small pond in the village of Molière (16th century buildings). You will continue in fields, forests and valleys, and dry stone huts, air manors, Molière and that of Auxerre (which has reinforced recently).
Turançonnaise loop
TOURIST OFFICE
9.43 km +159 m -161 m 3:10
Departure at La Chapelle -Aubareil (24 – Dordogne)
You will enjoy magnificent views of the Costeperrier manor, the Valojoulx fish reserve with the forest for the backdrop.
About Viso Rando
Visorando is the website and the reference mobile application for hiking in France. We mainly offer hikes on foot and cycling / mountain biking in France, but also in overseas communities and abroad. There are some here for all tastes: from Sunday ride to the journey engaged in the mountains, including itinerant hike and even urban hike. We attach great importance to the quality of the proposed circuits: each topo is described precisely and is accompanied by a hiking card. The Visorando mobile application allows you to follow the hike on the ground, being positioned with the GPS location. Thus, several million hikers travel through the trails, every year, thanks to Visorando.
The site was built on a participatory model: Anyone (individual, tourism professional) can offer their own hiking circuits. Each circuit, before being published, is verified by a team of moderators. Hikers are then invited to offer their opinion on the follow -ups. In this way we collect land information that allows us to keep the circuits up to date. It is this participative model, which, even if it may seem paradoxical, allowed us to build an unparalleled offer and level of quality on the free web.
The site is also available in English and German: we invite you to visit Visorando in English and Visorando in German . In addition to hikes in France, you will discover thousands of courses in the United Kingdom and Germany.
Visorando is managed by the eponymous company based in Alsace, at the foot of the Vosges, and led by a team of 13 full -time people, in addition to the team of moderators.