Take your pick: adrenaline packed or slow and contemplative?
Updated on Sept 6, 2024
Although hiking is probably the most democratic activity in the world, it requires that we respect some basic rules so we will always be able to enjoy our treks.
In the Eastern Townships, most trails run through private lands. Landowners sign an agreement with the trail managers in order to obtain the right to pass through their properties. By remembering to stay on the trails, you will respect these rights of way. Our contribution to maintaining good relationships between both parties ensures that the trails will remain open and accessible.
If access fees are required, as is the case in national parks and regional parks, pay your fees before departure. Many organizations offer online payment options. Looking for a free place? We have a list of 18 locations where you can hike for free.
The message is simple: hikers must pick up their trash and leave nothing behind! By erasing the traces of our passage, we will preserve the beauty and health of the environment.
Since hunting periods vary from one site to another, it is strongly recommended to respect the dates on which circulation is prohibited on certain trails. For your safety, it's important to take this period into account before planning your next hike. Find a wealth of relevant information on this subject in our guide to hiking during hunting season in the Eastern Townships.
The amount of water and food you’ll need is determined according to distance and weather. Normally, you should plan to bring about 1.5 litres of water per person.
If you’re planning to hike alone, especially over a long-distance, you should notify people about your destination and itinerary. If there’s a welcome centre at the trail head, register your information.
Your feet should be your primary concern. For an enjoyable outing, you must, first of all, have the proper footwear, boots or shoes adapted to the type of trail you’ll be walking on.
Multilayering should always be privileged (at least 3 layers of clothing). Why? Simply because this allows for an appropriate and rapid adaptation to any temperature variations by combining specific garments selected according to their properties. Each layer has a precise function:
The first layer leaves your skin dry by evacuating body sweat outwards. It’s usually made with synthetic fibres. The second layer allows humidity to escape while preserving your body heat. It’s usually made with wool fleece. The third layer, the external one, is a non-insulated shell-like garment, to ensure your protection when facing bad weather conditions. A good quality coat, such as a waterproof windbreaker made with breathable microfibres, like Gore-Tex, will protect you both in summer and in winter.
In short, we respect the seven principles of the Leave No Trace movement: Plan ahead and prepare, Travel and camp on durable surfaces, Dispose of waste properly, Leave what you find, Minimize campfire impacts, Respect wildlife and Be considerate of other visitors. To learn more about each of these principles, click here.
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