Val-des-Bois - hikes Things to Do
Réserve faunique de Papineau-Labelle
Activities
An immersion in nature
At the border of the Outaouais and the Laurentians, the Réserve faunique de Papineau-Labelle stretches across a vast forested territory where water and woodland shape the landscape. Covering more than 1,600 km² and dotted with over 760 lakes, this natural area managed by Sépaq is a true playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
Here, the rhythm of the day often feels different. You might wake up beside a quiet lake, head out paddling at sunrise or wander through the forest in search of a peaceful viewpoint. Throughout the seasons, the reserve offers a wide range of activities including hiking, fishing, canoe-camping and hunting.
Families will also find plenty to enjoy. Various types of equipment can be rented on site, including canoes, kayaks and bicycles. Visitors aged 17 and under can even use certain equipment free of charge. Wildlife is abundant, and it’s not uncommon to spot a moose, deer or otter while exploring. Between activities, sandy beaches invite you to slow down and simply enjoy the moment.
Spend the night in the heart of the reserve
To make the most of your visit, there are several accommodation options available to extend your stay.
The cabins offer a good balance between comfort and immersion in nature. Often located on the waterfront and sometimes even on an island, they are equipped with a kitchen, a refrigerator, a shower, and hot water. Some also have a wood stove or fireplace, perfect for winding down the day in a cozy atmosphere.
Camping enthusiasts, meanwhile, can choose from several sites located along the lake. The campsites typically include a picnic table and a fire pit, while some campgrounds have restroom facilities and water stations.
For those who want to experience camping without having to haul all their gear, the Étoile ready-to-camp units in the Lac Écho sector offer a simple and convenient solution. These facilities allow you to sleep comfortably while fully enjoying the natural surroundings.
Activities perfect for families
The reserve is ideal for family outings. At Lake Écho, a large sandy beach draws visitors on hot days. You can swim, have a picnic, or simply relax by the water while the kids play on the playground.
To explore the area further, nearly 60 km of hiking trails crisscross the reserve. Some trails are easy and accessible, while others allow hikers to venture deeper into the forest. Along the way, hikers discover a variety of landscapes, including wooded hills, tranquil lakes, and scenic overlooks of the surrounding nature.
Paddle from one lake to another in a camping canoe
With its many interconnected lakes, the Réserve faunique de Papineau-Labelle a popular destination for canoe-camping. The trails allow you to cover distances ranging from 14.5 to 44 km as you paddle from lake to lake.
Campers can set up their tents on sites accessible only by water, giving them the feeling of being alone in the world. At Lake Echo, seven sites are reserved for paddlers and are accessible only by canoe. These sites offer beautiful views and the tranquility sought by lovers of low-key adventure.
Fishing, a living tradition
The reserve is also renowned for its excellent fishing. More than 700 lakes are home to various species of fish, including speckled trout, lake trout, Arctic char, pike, walleye, and bass.
You can fish from the shore, a dock, or a boat. At Lake Echo, many anglers take a rowboat out to explore the deeper waters, while the dock at Lake Taku provides easy access to fishing.
A family fishing package also allows children ages 9 to 12 to learn the basics of fishing with a guide. It’s a wonderful way to pass on a passion and share a moment in nature.
Hunting
Infall, the Réserve faunique de Papineau-Labelle a popular destination for hunters. Visitors can hunt small game, such as grouse, capercaillie, and hares, with hunting permitted for those aged 12 and older.
Big-game hunting, particularly for moose and white-tailed deer, is also available in certain quota zones during specific periods, generally between September and October.
Governed by strict regulations, this activity is part of a responsible approach to land and wildlife management, while helping to preserve hunting traditions in the great outdoors.