We went there on a Monday morning at the very end of summer, just a few days before the fall colors appeared. We have already promised ourselves to come back there in the middle of autumn, to enjoy the colors. And we sure did!
Following the advice of the receptionist, we follow trails 2, 7, 8, 4 and 9. To our great delight. The hike begins slowly along the river whose flow is higher at the end of summer.
First observations: it is very well laid out and the signage is irreproachable. We thought of everything: picnic areas along the river, stairs to carefully reach the shore, public benches strategically placed to enjoy the beauty of the place… And always in the background, the music of this river that never stops pouring its waves.
Leaving trail no. 2, you go deeper into the forest. The path becomes narrower, we sometimes walk on huge stones and we keep our feet dry. In fact, in order to make life easier for hikers, the paths have been fitted with stairs and footbridges during the most difficult or muddy passages. We overcome these “difficulties” with disconcerting ease.
We arrive at the main course: trail no. 9, aptly named “Sentier de la grande ascension”. 1.1 km long, it leads to a belvedere which culminates at 373 meters. This will be our reward for the day, the view is splendid. We then retrace our steps and go down to trail no. 4. Despite its name, be aware that this trail is very accessible, we have measured it, its elevation gain is around 100 meters.
Starting point
4672, Doncaster Road, Sainte-Adele
Our last visit
September 12, 2022
Admission fees
A $9 fee applies for adults, it’s free for children 0 to 5 years old.
Should I bring my sticks or not?
If you plan to tackle the great Ascension (trail no. 9), they can be useful.
And the dogs?
They are admitted, kept on a leash of course.
Picnic
It’s possible. And we highly recommend it, the site is magnificent.
And if the urge arises?
You will find (chemical) toilets at the entrance.
