Exploring the beautiful landscapes around Montreal with your furry companion is a rewarding experience. Whether you're looking for a casual walk or a more challenging hike, the region offers numerous dog-friendly trails, some of which allow your dog to be off-leash. Here are 15 trails near Montreal, Quebec, that are perfect for you and your dog, with leash policies noted for each location.
1. Mont Royal Park
Leash required: Yes
Located in the heart of Montreal, Mont Royal Park is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. The trails offer stunning views of the city, and the park provides various routes ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. While dogs must be on a leash at all times, this is a great spot to explore nature without leaving the city.
2. Parc National du Mont-Saint-Bruno
Leash required: Yes
Just a 30-minute drive from Montreal, Mont-Saint-Bruno National Park is home to several well-maintained trails that loop around lakes and through dense forests. Dogs are welcome on specific trails, but they must be on a leash. This park offers a peaceful escape for you and your dog to enjoy nature.
3. Morgan Arboretum
Leash-free areas: Yes (in designated zones)
Located in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, the Morgan Arboretum is a haven for dog owners. It features numerous trails that weave through forests, and some areas allow dogs to roam off-leash. The arboretum is ideal for those looking for a quieter, more natural environment for their walks.
4. Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park
Leash required: Yes
This large park offers trails through forests, fields, and along the shore of Lac des Deux Montagnes. While dogs must be leashed on the trails, there’s a designated beach where dogs can swim and cool off leash-free. The flat trails make it a relaxing spot for a leisurely hike with your dog.
5. Bois-de-Liesse Nature Park
Leash required: Yes
A hidden gem within the Montreal region, Bois-de-Liesse Nature Park features trails that wind through wetlands and forests. Dogs are allowed but must remain on a leash. This park is perfect for those who want a tranquil setting without venturing too far from the city.
6. Oka National Park
Leash required: Yes
About an hour from Montreal, Oka National Park offers several dog-friendly trails through forests and along Lac des Deux Montagnes. While dogs must be on a leash, the diverse trails, including the iconic Calvaire d'Oka, provide a great mix of forest and lake scenery.
7. Mont Saint-Hilaire
Leash required: Yes
Known for its breathtaking views, Mont Saint-Hilaire offers trails that vary in difficulty. The mountain is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and while dogs must be on a leash, the diverse ecosystems and stunning viewpoints make it worth the visit.
8. Mont Orford National Park
Leash required: Yes
Located in the Eastern Townships, Mont Orford is a popular hiking destination for more experienced hikers. While dogs must be leashed, the park offers several scenic trails, including some that lead to panoramic views of the surrounding area.
9. Sentiers de l'Estrie
Leash required: Yes
Stretching over 150 kilometers in the Eastern Townships, the Sentiers de l'Estrie are part of a network of trails that connect various parks. Dogs are allowed but must remain on a leash. The trails offer everything from easy forest strolls to more challenging hikes.
10. Ile-de-la-Visitation Nature Park
Leash required: Yes
Located along the Rivière des Prairies, this park is an ideal spot for a leisurely walk. The trails are relatively flat, making them perfect for all fitness levels. Dogs must be leashed, but they will enjoy the calm, riverside setting as much as their owners.
11. Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook
Leash required: Yes
Famous for its suspension bridge and beautiful gorge views, Parc de la Gorge offers dog-friendly trails that range from easy to moderate. Dogs must be leashed, and the park’s iconic suspension bridge is a highlight for visitors who enjoy adventure and stunning scenery.
12. Domaine Saint-Bernard
Leash required: Yes
Near Mont Tremblant, Domaine Saint-Bernard offers a peaceful retreat for hikers. Its trails pass through meadows and forests, providing plenty of opportunities for bird-watching. While dogs must be on a leash, the tranquility of the setting makes it a perfect destination for nature lovers.
13. Yamaska National Park
Leash required: Yes
Yamaska National Park is another fantastic option for those looking to hike with their dogs. The trails here are mostly flat and loop around lakes and forests. Dogs must remain leashed, but the quiet surroundings offer a peaceful getaway from urban life.
14. Sentiers des Caps de Charlevoix
Leash required: Yes
For those seeking a more rugged hiking experience, the Sentiers des Caps trails offer challenging terrain with stunning views of the Charlevoix region. While dogs are allowed on some sections, they must be leashed due to the more difficult and steep terrain. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking vistas.
15. Mont-Tremblant National Park
Leash required: Yes
Mont-Tremblant is one of Quebec’s most famous outdoor destinations, offering trails for all experience levels. Dogs are allowed on some trails, but they must be leashed. From easy lakeside paths to more challenging mountain hikes, Mont-Tremblant has something for everyone and provides a great opportunity for bonding with your pet in the wild.
Conclusion
When exploring any of these trails, it’s important to respect the local regulations regarding dogs, as many parks require pets to be on a leash to protect both the environment and the safety of other hikers. Be sure to pack enough water for both you and your dog, and always clean up after your pet to keep these beautiful trails accessible to everyone. With so many options near Montreal, you and your dog can enjoy the best of Quebec’s natural beauty while getting some fresh air and exercise together.
