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September 28, 2025

Autumn hikes

Explore the hiking trails

fall offers an incomparable experience for hiking enthusiasts. With ideal temperatures and landscapes decked out in the vibrant colors of the season, it's the perfect time to explore. In Petite Nation, you'll find a multitude of trails to suit all types of hikers, whether they're passionate about long walks or simply looking for contemplative hikes .

 

La Route des Zingues

Trail distances: 2.5 to 24.3 km, Free, Pets allowed (except at P1, in Parc Pimatina)
* Important note: During the hunting season in Réserve faunique de Papineau-Labelle, it is strictly forbidden to circulate without a permit issued by RFPL, from P3 to P7. Hunting 2025

A hike through spectacular scenery

Want to immerse yourself in the wilderness and discover breathtaking panoramas? The Route des Zinguesone of the most beautiful sections of the Sentier national du Québec, is made for you! Located in the municipality of Duhamel, this hiking trail, reminiscent of the Route des Indes, winds 24.3 km between Lac Gagnon and Lac Preston, through an ancestral forest. Offering spectacular scenery and an unforgettable experience, it incorporates the Julie Trail and part of the Pine Trail.

Numerous viewpoints await you along the way. A junction with the Caroline trail takes you to the summit of Mont Weskarini, the highest point in the Lac Gagnon region. Majestic forests, crystal-clear lakes, rugged mountains and a wealth of wildlife provide the backdrop for this unforgettable getaway.

This route joins the Laurentian section of the national trail at La Minerve and Labelle, via Mont Resther.

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Parc des Montagnes Noires de Ripon

TRAILS DISTANCE FROM 0.9 km TO 4.8km, Toilets, Pets Allowed, Paying

A paradise for hikers

Visit Ripon BlackParc des Montagnes is a natural gem offering ten easy-to-intermediate trails, accessible from four parking lots. The welcome chalet is located in the main parking lot. From here, a trail climbs to the summit of the Montagnes Noires, reaching a 12.5-metre-high observation tower for a 360-degree view, as well as a lookout perched atop Mont Grand-Pic at 426 metres altitude. You can admire the Petite Nation valley and Mont Tremblant.

This 800-acre forested area offers wild landscapes and panoramic views. Along the way, you'll discover boulders and granite rocks dating back to the Ice Age. Ripon's Parc des Montagnes Noires is ideal for outdoor activities and the contemplation of natural landscapes.

The park also offers four refuges, perfect for an extended stay in the great outdoors. Open year-round from sunrise to sunset, Ripon's Parc des Montagnes Noires is a must-see destination for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.

blackmountainspark.ca

 

Forêt-la-Blanche ecological reserve

TRAIL DISTANCES FROM 0.5 to 4.8 km, Paying, TOILETS, DOGS PROHIBITED IN THE RESERVE, no picking allowed.

An unspoilt jewel of nature

La Forêt-la-Blanche Ecological Reserve covers 2,052 hectares and is home to one of Quebec's last remaining old-growth forests. The area is dotted with bodies of water that the trails skirt or join, offering natural, unspoiled landscapes. The reserve consists mainly of a maple-beech stand, accompanied by seven forest ecosystems typical of the stands found in the southern part of the province before European colonization.

The reserve's trails are accessible by snowshoe in winter, allowing you to discover this enchanting place in any season. The Le Cendré trail offers a convenient shortcut for both long and short hikes. On the Le Ouaouaron trail, two long footbridges run along Lac Amik and Lac aux Hérons, offering breathtaking views of these bodies of water.

Strategically placed lookouts allow you to admire waterfalls as well as the surrounding region and its lakes. The Forêt-la-Blanche Ecological Reserve is an ideal place for nature lovers and hikers, offering total immersion in an ancient and preserved forest environment.

foretlablanche.org/en/

Parc régional de la forêt Bowman

DISTANCE OF TRAILS: 1.8 km to 4 km Free, Toilets, PETS ALLOWED

A natural setting to explore

Visit BowmanParc régional de la forêt is an ideal destination for hikers in search of breathtaking fall scenery. Situated on 680 hectares of public land, the park is a haven of peace, with a multitude of hiking trails ranging from 1.8 km to 4 km. Access is free, toilets are available and pets are allowed, making it the perfect destination for a family outing.

In fall, the park is decked out in flamboyant colors, transforming every hike into an unforgettable visual experience. Trails cross a variety of landscapes, including seven lakes, six hills and old-growth forests. Several lookouts offer spectacular panoramic views, ideal for contemplative pauses or memorable photo opportunities.

Adventure seekers can also take advantage of the rock faces for rock climbing. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a nature lover, Parc régional de la forêt Bowman will satisfy all your outdoor desires. Take advantage of autumn to discover this natural treasure and enjoy an unforgettable wilderness experience.

foretbowman.org

In the fall, Petite Nation is transformed into a hiker's paradise. A variety of trails and spectacular scenery await you in iconic locations. Come explore these natural treasures and marvel at the beauty of the season.
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