Take your pick: adrenaline packed or slow and contemplative?
Designed for riders who like a bit of bite under their tires, this two-day circuit combines two well-known Coaticook Region loops (Graveleur des Bois and Journée d’Amérique) into a full adventure around Mount Hereford. From the very start, the tone is set: forest roads, steep climbs (sometimes demanding), and that exhilarating feeling of riding far from it all, where cell service fades and reference points shift. On day two, the route opens up and breathes differently as it passes through Saint-Venant-de-Paquette, adding a softer touch without ever becoming ordinary. Between challenging sections and more rolling stretches, this itinerary thrives on contrast—both in effort and in scenery.
Starting point: Camping Mont expérience Hereford
577 Chem. de Coaticook, East Hereford, QC J0B 1S0, Canada
From the very first pedal strokes, the first day dives straight into the action: 50 demanding kilometres around Mount Hereford, with climbs that put the legs to the test and forest roads where all sense of direction quickly fades. After about fifteen kilometres, Ranch St-Hubert in Saint-Herménégilde offers a welcome break—both gourmet and countryside-inspired—with its ready-to-eat charcuterie selection (allow time for thawing). The stretch along Chemin de la Slouce, on the edge of the Hereford Community Forest, brings that exhilarating feeling of exploring near-untouched terrain (with a descent that should not be underestimated). Near the end of the route, head toward East Hereford for a well-earned stop at Cantine le Baumier, before reaching your base camp at Mont Expérience Hereford and finally enjoying the calm after the effort.
A more accessible second day, but no less rewarding: less elevation gain, a smooth route, and well-rolling gravel—perfect for spinning the legs without dipping too deeply into the reserves. The name of the circuit takes on its full meaning as you pass through Saint-Venant-de-Paquette, adopted village of Richard Séguin, in reference to his song Journée d’Amérique. You reach it quickly, and it’s well worth a stop: a visit to the Maison de l’Arbre to pay access fees to the site and enjoy a proper service point (restrooms, water, rest area, exhibition space), followed by a well-placed break at Café-délices du terroir. With its terrace overlooking the valley, simple yet locally rooted menu, and options ranging from coffee to craft beer or a full meal, it’s an ideal place to recharge before heading out again. The rest of the ride unfolds on quiet, low-traffic roads, with just enough kilometres to complete this two-day adventure on a controlled and satisfying note.
