From Montreal: Sept-Chutes Regional Park Hike and Swim

If you’re seeking a peaceful escape from Montreal’s urban buzz, this day trip to Sept-Chutes Regional Park offers a welcome dose of fresh air, scenic views, and gentle adventure. Designed for outdoor enthusiasts, families, or anyone wanting a break in nature, this tour combines the relaxing pleasures of a hike with the thrill of a refreshing swim.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to explore multiple trails with varying levels of challenge — perfect if you’re unsure about your fitness or hiking experience. Plus, the scenic drive through Lanaudière is a highlight by itself, offering a glimpse into Quebec’s lush landscapes. The roundtrip transportation from Montreal is a big plus, eliminating the hassle of planning logistics and making it easy to relax from start to finish.

One minor consideration is the self-guided nature of the hike—meaning there’s no official guide leading your trail experience, so a bit of prior preparation or trail familiarity might help. Still, the knowledgeable driver/guide makes the journey more informative, sharing insights about the region.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of nature, panoramic views, and flexibility. It’s perfect for those who want an active day outdoors without complicated logistics, especially if you enjoy discovering scenic spots on your own or with a small group.

Key Points

• Comfortably organized day trip with roundtrip transport from Montreal.
• Variety of trails suitable for different skill levels, with options for breathtaking views.
• Swim in Lac Rémi, making the experience both invigorating and refreshing.
• Scenic drive through Lanaudière, adding local flavor and beauty.
• Informative driver/guide offers insight into the region, improving your understanding.
• Small group size (limited to 11 participants), ensuring a personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Sept-Chutes Regional Park Experience

We’re often asked about day trips from Montreal that strike a balance between nature, ease, and value. This tour, focusing on Sept-Chutes Regional Park, hits that sweet spot. It’s an ideal choice for those wanting to escape the city without spending hours in transit or dealing with complex logistics.

Two key highlights stand out. First, the chance to choose from multiple hiking trails—each offering different views, terrains, and experiences—means you can tailor your day to your mood and energy level. Second, the opportunity to cool off with a swim near Lac Rémi truly enriches the experience, especially on a hot day.

A potential drawback is the lack of guided hiking, which might matter if you’re unfamiliar with trail navigation or prefer a guided experience. However, the small group setting and the guide’s local knowledge make up for this, providing safety and context along the way.

Designed for active travelers and outdoor lovers, this trip is perfect if you enjoy scenic drives, panoramic vistas, and the simplicity of a well-organized group outing. It’s an easy way to soak up Quebec’s natural beauty without the fuss.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Scenic Drive & Regional Insights

Your adventure begins in central Montreal, where you’ll meet your driver and guide in a comfortable, air-conditioned van. As the vehicle rolls out, you’ll get a brief introduction to Lanaudière — Quebec’s lush, forested region — setting the stage for what lies ahead. This drive alone is worth the price of admission, offering a chance to settle into the landscape and learn about the area’s geography and history.

Arrival at Sept-Chutes Regional Park

Once at the park, you’ll find a welcoming reception and entry tickets included in your package. The park boasts several kilometers of trails, with each offering a different experience. The most popular choice, according to the guides and reviews, is the Mont-Brassard loop. This trail features a moderate hike with spectacular panoramic views from the summit, making it an ideal spot for photos and a breather.

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Hiking Experience & Trail Options

The “Bonjour Nature” recommended route takes you along the Veil of the Bride trail, leading towards Lac Guy, then winding westward toward Lac Rémi. The trail system is well-marked with color-coded markers, making navigation straightforward.

Hikers can expect varied scenery: dense forests, gentle lakesides, and mountain vistas. For those unsure of their ability, there are options for easier walks, while more ambitious hikers can extend their route or choose different trails. One reviewer noted they hiked 8.3 miles (13 km) across different colored trails and found the experience moderate and very rewarding.

The Highlight: The Views & Swimming

The views from Mont Brassard are a standout feature. We loved the way the guide described the geological features and the importance of preserving these natural spaces. When you reach the top, you’ll understand why so many visitors find this vantage point worth the effort.

On a sunny day, you might want to pause for a swim at Lac Rémi. The water is refreshing, particularly after a hike, and this simple act elevates the day from ordinary to memorable. One traveler called the views “amazing,” while another said they loved “seeing the beautiful view,” highlighting how much the scenery resonated.

Returning & Reflection

After a satisfying day of walking, panoramic views, and perhaps a dip in the lake, you’ll board your van for the return trip. The guides are attentive, and while the hike itself isn’t guided step-by-step, the driver offers plenty of local insights and answers questions. The roundtrip transportation is reliable, and the small group size ensures a cozy, personalized atmosphere.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

Price & Value

At $69 per person, this trip offers excellent value, especially considering the all-inclusive transport and park entry. Compared to the cost of organizing your own trip—plus the convenience of door-to-door service—it’s a worthwhile investment for a hassle-free day in nature.

Duration & Timing

The trip typically runs in the morning, lasting around one day. It’s perfect if you want to maximize your outdoor time without a full weekend commitment. The self-guided hike allows you to explore at your own pace within the provided trails, giving flexibility to linger or move quickly.

Group & Language

Limited to 11 participants, the small-group format fosters a friendly environment. Guides speak both French and English, ensuring clear communication for a diverse audience.

What to Bring

Travelers should come prepared with hiking shoes, water, biodegradable sunscreen, and a packed lunch. A swimsuit is necessary if you plan to cool off in Lac Rémi. Weather can vary, so pack weather-appropriate clothing, insects repellents, and outdoor gear.

What Past Participants Say

Feedback from previous travelers paints a full picture. One reviewer from Canada called it a “nice excursion,” despite a minor scheduling confusion, and praised the weather for making the day perfect. Americans appreciated the informative driver and the helpfulness of park staff explaining the trail markers.

French visitors highlighted the variety of trail levels and the beautiful views they enjoyed. Several reviewers mentioned the friendly driver, making the day even more enjoyable, and the amazing scenery was a recurring theme.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for outdoor lovers looking for a relaxed, scenic day without the complication of planning. Families with children (who can handle a moderate hike) will find it manageable and fun. Hikers wanting the best views without a strenuous climb will be pleased, and those interested in local natural beauty will leave with a deeper appreciation of Quebec’s lush landscapes.

It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users**, as the terrain and trails may not be accessible. However, anyone comfortable walking a few kilometers on marked trails will find this a rewarding outing.

The Sum Up

The From Montreal: Sept-Chutes Regional Park Hike and Swim tour offers a solid way to experience Quebec’s natural charm in a day. It combines scenic drives, well-marked trails, panoramic views, and a refreshing lake swim into a friendly, manageable package. The small group size and informative guide make it a personal and enriching outing, especially for those eager to enjoy outdoor activities without the stress of planning.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual outdoor enthusiast, this trip provides an accessible, worthwhile adventure just a short drive from Montreal. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a straightforward way to connect with nature and enjoy some well-earned tranquility.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Montreal to Sept-Chutes Regional Park?
The scenic drive from Montreal takes about an hour, providing a relaxed start to your outdoor day.

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip van transport from central Montreal is part of the package, making it very convenient.

What should I bring for the hike?
Bring hiking shoes, water, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, weather-appropriate clothing, and a packed lunch. A swimsuit is also recommended for swimming.

Can I choose my trail?
The tour suggests the Mont-Brassard loop as a favorite, but since the hike is self-guided, you can explore different trails if you wish.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who can handle a moderate hike will enjoy the experience, especially the lakeside swim.

What language will the guide speak?
Guides speak both French and English, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

How big is the group?
The group is limited to 11 participants, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour runs rain or shine. You should come prepared for various weather conditions.

In short, this tour is a smart, enjoyable way to enjoy Quebec’s natural beauty outside of Montreal—offering scenic views, outdoor fun, and peace of mind, all in one well-organized package.

You can check availability for your dates here: