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September 28, 2025

Autumn hikes

Explore the hiking trails

fall an unparalleled experience for hiking enthusiasts. With ideal temperatures and landscapes ablaze with the season’s vibrant colors, it’s the perfect time to explore. In Petite Nation, you’ll find a wide variety of trails to suit every type of hiker, whether you’re a fan of long hikes or simply looking for hikes .

 

The Route des Zingues

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

A hike through spectacular scenery

Want to immerse yourself in the wilderness and discover breathtaking views? The Route des Zingues, one of the most beautiful sections of the Sentier national du Québec, is perfect for you! Located in the municipality of Duhamel, this hiking trail—which evokes the Route des Indes—winds for 24.3 km between Lakes Gagnon and Preston, traversing an ancient forest. Offering spectacular scenery and an unforgettable experience, it incorporates the Julie Trail and part of the Pins Trail.

Along the way, you’ll find numerous scenic overlooks. A junction with the Caroline Trail leads to the summit of Mount Weskarini, the highest point in the Lake Gagnon region. Majestic forests, crystal-clear lakes, rugged mountains, and abundant wildlife set the scene for this unforgettable getaway.

This road connects to the Laurentian section of the National Trail at La Minerve and Labelle, passing through Mont Resther.

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Parc des Montagnes Noires de Ripon

Trail lengths ranging from 0.9 km to 4.8 km, Restrooms, Admission fee, Pets allowed

A hiker's paradise

The Ripon’sParc des Montagnes is a natural gem offering ten easy-to-intermediate trails, accessible from four parking lots. The visitor center is located at the main parking lot. From there, a trail climbs to the summit of the Montagnes Noires, leading to a 12.5-meter-high observation tower offering a 360-degree view, as well as a lookout perched atop Mont Grand-Pic at an elevation of 426 meters. 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 erratic boulders and granite rocks dating back to the Ice Age. Ripon’s Parc des Montagnes is ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural scenery.

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

parcdesmontagnesnoires.ca

 

Forêt-la-Blanche Ecological Reserve

TRAIL LENGTHS: 0.5 to 4.8 km, Admission fee, Restrooms, Dogs prohibited in the reserve, No picking allowed

A preserved natural gem

The 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 run alongside or connect to, offering natural and unspoiled landscapes. The reserve consists mainly of a beech-maple forest, along with seven forest ecosystems typical of the stands found in the southern part of the province prior to European colonization.

The reserve’s trails are accessible by snowshoes in winter, allowing visitors to explore this enchanting place year-round. The Le Cendré Trail offers the option of a long or short hike thanks to a convenient shortcut. On the Le Ouaouaron Trail, two long boardwalks run alongside Lake Amik and Lake aux Hérons, offering breathtaking views of these bodies of water.

Strategically placed lookout points offer views of waterfalls as well as the surrounding area and its lakes. The Forêt-la-Blanche Ecological Reserve is an ideal destination for nature lovers and hikers, offering a complete immersion in an ancient, preserved forest environment.

foretlablanche.org/en/

Parc régional de la forêt Bowman

TRAIL LENGTH: 1.8 km to 4 km Free admission, Restrooms, Pets allowed

A natural setting waiting to be explored

The Parc régional de la forêt is an ideal destination for hikers seeking breathtaking fall scenery. Located on 680 hectares of public land, this park is a true haven of peace offering a variety of hiking trails ranging from 1.8 km to 4 km. Admission is free, restrooms are available, and pets are allowed, making it a perfect destination for a family outing.

In fall, the park is ablaze with vibrant colors, turning every hike into an unforgettable visual experience. The trails wind through a variety of landscapes, including seven lakes, six hills, and ancient forests. Several lookouts offer spectacular panoramic views, perfect for contemplative breaks 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 fall, Petite Nation becomes a true hiker’s paradise. A variety of trails and spectacular scenery await you at iconic locations. Come explore these natural treasures and let yourself be captivated by the beauty of the season.
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