8 Must Hikes this Autumn

Updated on Jul 8, 2025

OK! The time has come for you to put on a warm sweater and your hiking boots because Mother Nature is presenting her best performance on our trails!

By Carolyne Parent

In our Townships, the forest is never far away and in autumn, it becomes particularly inviting. As we walk through the woods, we can appreciate the fine aromas of the under growth and the multitude of incandescent colours. All this as we climb up to views that bring out OHs! and AHs! As a bonus, we’re able to observe all kinds of birds as they gather here as well.

A reminder: Before leaving for your hiking adventure, don’t forget to check when the trails will be closed during the hunting season, just in case! Here is our guid on hiking during Hunting season in the Townships.


©Jessie Jolin

Parc des sommets, in Bromont

At Parc des Sommets in Bromont, there are dozens of hiking trails to explore! Among the many possible options, try the loop that passes through the peaks of Mount Bernard and Mount Horizon. From the viewpoints of these two peaks, some superb panoramas awaits you! For those carpooling, Bromont, Montagne d’expériences has reserved parking spots close to the main entrance just for you!

Level: Intermediate
Length: 6 km or 7 km loop
A “plus” in the area: After this effort, enjoy a relaxing time at BALNÉA, spa and réserve thermale.


©Daphné Caron

The Burbank Pond, in Danville

Beginner Ornithologists, take out your binoculars! You’ll be comfortably observing some 220 bird species, that dwell in this natural protected environment. A belvedere, a long footbridge, towers and an aviary are available for your use. Charming you say? And how!

Level: Beginner
Total length of trails: 3.6 km
A “plus” in the area: The Miellerie King, which offers a range of products that highlights the sweet nectar gathered by bees.


Mont Scotch Cap, in Piopolis

What will be your reward as you arrived at the summit of this little mountain? A spectacular view, overlooking the Lac des Joncs and the USA Mountains.

Level: Easy
Length: 2.6 km
A “plus” in the area: The pub of the Auberge au Soleil Levant


©Ian Roberge

Mount Owl's Head, in Mansonville

From the base of the ski station, take the Abénakis-Maçonnique trail which lead to the summit. After a steep but short climb (2 km), you will be able to admire the panoramic view with the Memphremagog Lake and the USA mountains. And for the descent, we suggest that you take the panoramic trail.

Level: Intermediate
Length: 7.4 km round trip
A “plus” in the area: The Equinoxe microbrewery in Mansonville


©Ian Roberge

Parc national du Mont-Mégantic

At the top of the Escarpments trail in the Franceville sector, you will have a splendid view. At your feet, a valley of colored deciduous trees and in the background, the Mégantic massifs that stretch. Good to know : this trail is easy to walk with young children.

Level: Beginner
Length: 6.5 km in and out
A “plus” in the area: The Astrolab and the Popular Observatory to explore the sky after having taken on the mountain.


©Charles Dion

Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook

Take the kids on a fresh air outing and go from surprise to surprise on these trails. They will take you through several attractions, but reserve the suspended bridge for the end!

Level: Beginner and intermediate
Length: Four loops from 3 km to 9 km.
A “plus” in the area: The ice cream bar at the Laiterie Coaticook, absolutely!


©Charles Dion

Parc national du Mont-Orford

Are you ready for a challenge? Head out on the breathtaking trails of les Crêtes in the national post which will take you to the summit of Mount Orford. It also passes by the viewpoints of Pic de la Roche Fendue and Pic de l'ours.

Level: Advanced
Length: 11.4 km (in only)
A “plus” in the area: The Orford Vineyard, to celebrate your conquest of the mountain!


©Charles Dion

Parc régional du Mont-Ham

As a family, you’ll enjoy these short hikes. When you arrive at the summit with a minimum of effort by the Panoramic trail, you’ll be able to admire a grandiose landscape which can’t be outdone by any other. Psst! If you're planning to visit the Eastern Townships this fall from Montreal, the Navette Nature could be a great option for you! It lets you leave from home and takes you directly to the hike of your choice : the Mont-Orford, the Mont Ham or the Gorge de Coaticook. Check out their website for the full schedule.

Level: Intermediate
Length: 4.2 km (in and out)
A “plus” in the area: The terroir menu of the Auberge La Mara.

Hiking Without Leaving a Trace

Because enjoying nature also means protecting it, we follow the 7 principles of the Leave No Trace movement. In practice, that means planning our activities carefully, staying on designated trails to protect the soil, and packing out all our waste — even what others may have left behind, when possible. We leave plants, rocks, and wildlife just as we found them, so that everyone can enjoy them. Most importantly, we show respect: greeting fellow hikers, keeping noise levels low, and keeping dogs on a leash — so nature stays a welcoming place for all.
Discover the Principles

You should read

12 Hiking Outings in the Eastern Townships
Where to celebrate fall in the Eastern Townships
Trails for a Perfect Family Sunday Outing
X

Filters

X
Taste the Townships
Arts, culture and entertainment
Shopping
Lodging
Nature, sports and outdoor activities
Restaurants
Tourist routes
Family outing
Spa and wellness
Charging stations