8 Must Hikes this Autumn

Updated on Aug 28, 2024

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!

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 Mante du Carré, the restaurant in Danville, open all year round


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


©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: three loops of 3.5 km, 6 km and 10 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!


©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 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.

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

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