Take your pick: adrenaline packed or slow and contemplative?
Updated on May 2, 2023
Marshes, ponds and bogs are very unique venues where rich ecosystems thrive and where we feel appeased as we walk about and observe elements of nature, we won’t find anywhere else. Curious? Let’s head out to explore eight of these in the Townships!
By Marie-Claude Masse
Île du Marais, in Sainte-Catherine-de-Hatley, is a true haven and a paradise for ornithologists. You’ll discover 4.3 km of walking trails which will take you across marshlands, the lake and the forest. Easily accessible and located less than 10 minutes from Autoroute 10, this bird observation site, with more than 190 inventoried bird species, also counts several reptile and amphibian species and more than 200 species of plants, trees and shrubs. Entrance is free, but donations are greatly appreciated.
425, rue des Sapins, Sainte-Catherine-de-Hatley
On the shores of Lake Aylmer, in Stratford, you’ll find the Marais Maskinongé. Covering 1.6 kilometres, it runs through meandering ponds and rich wetlands. With its walkway and bridge and a more than 7 metres-high observation tower, this short but truly amazing path is perfect for families who will discover breathtaking biodiversity here. Entrance is free.
505, chemin du Domaine-Aylmer, Stratford
Rediscover the tranquility of nature only 5 minutes from downtown Sherbrooke when you visit the Marais Réal-D.-Carbonneau. This vast territory has been superbly landscaped: observation towers, interpretive panels, raised walkways, water gardens, benches where you can relax, a play area… As you walk through this 2-kilometre path, you’ll be able to observe more than 50 tree and shrub species, a great number of birds, amphibians, invertebrates, reptiles and mammals. Entrance is free.
23, rue Lévesque, Sherbrooke
Located between Mount Orford and Lake Memphremagog, the Marais de la Rivière aux Cerises offers woodlands, swamps, a marsh and a bog. Here you’ll find the most impressive biodiversity as you discover hundreds of birds, mammals and amphibians. A visit to the Centre-d’-interprétation-du-Marais, and its boutique, its terraces, its exhibit hall and its amazing architecture will truly complete your day! There is no entrance fee, but we invite you to slip a dollar or two in their very colourful parking meters!
69, chemin Roy, Magog
One of the rare wild ponds, l’Étang Baldwin, situated between Lake Lyster and Mount Pinacle, will offer you the most awesome experience! To fully enjoy your visit, rent a quiet, non-motorized, boat to observe the rich fauna. Who knows, you might catch a glimpse of a yellow-bellied flycatcher, a black-backed woodpecker or perhaps a common loon! Fishing enthusiasts will also enjoy practising their favourite sport here; they might even leave with a fine speckled trout! Entrance fee.
1294, chemin des Chalets, Coaticook
In Danville, the Étang Burbank pond, with its pretty 290-meter long raised walkway, will delight the most experienced ornithologists as much as simple bird watchers. It’s important to note that this natural paradise shelters more than 220 bird species, plus more than 19 mammal species, amphibians, reptiles and a luxuriant vegetation. You’ll also find observation towers, 3.6 kilometres of interpretive trails, a belvedere, rest areas, an aviary as well as an interpretation pavilion. When autumn arrives, this venue is renowned for welcoming thousands of migratory birds which pause here for a couple of weeks. Free entrance.
150, rue Water, Danville
As you walk through the 5.8 kilometres of trails with their many interpretive panels, you’ll discover information about the bogs, the last ice age and its esker. The Johnville Bog and Forest Park will satisfy the most curious, scientific-minded among you! On the Bog trail, keep an eye out for the pitcher plant and the round leaf sundew, two absolutely spectacular carnivorous plants! Entrance is free, but donations are greatly appreciated.
261, chemin North, Cookshire-Eaton
In the Saint-Daniel sector of the Parc national de Frontenac, you’ll discover a true jewel as you explore this untouched bog which shelters, among others, carnivorous plants and magnificent orchids. Covering a distance of 5 kilometres, these walkways will take you through the bog to two observation towers offering you some beautiful panoramas. In the summer, guided visits are offered. Entrance fee.
177, route du parc, Saint-Daniel
