Morgan Arboretum in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue

Credit: Francis Dansereau

Did you know the Morgan Arboretum is home to one of the largest varieties of breeding bird species on the Island of Montréal? On a typical day, you can easily observe dozens of bird species, including the barred owl and the pileated woodpecker, as you walk along the arboretum’s trails. And be sure to keep your eyes out for some of the park’s other wildlife, including coyotes and deer!

To get there:  from Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Station, ride your bike for 10 minutes.

Gault Nature Reserve in Mont-Saint-Hilaire

Credit: Gault Nature Reserve

Designated as Canada’s first biosphere reserve by UNESCO, Mont-Saint-Hilaire’s Nature Reserve is a gem to discover in the fall. Its trails offer spectacular views of the Richelieu Valley, allowing visitors to explore a forest rich in maple trees, where the season’s vibrant colours make for a unique setting. White-tailed deer, songbirds and other species find refuge here, making every hike a true immersion in nature.

To get there: help reduce traffic during apple season by using our on-demand transit service.

Parc Régional des Grèves in Sorel-Tracy

Credit: Tourisme Sorel-Tracy

Between forests, marshes and the banks of the St. Lawrence River, Parc Régional des Grèves boasts the perfect setting to admire the fall colours. More than 12 km of hiking trails allow you to discover a variety of flora and fauna, including ducks, herons and even a few deer who may cross your path. This large natural park is also a popular refuge for migratory birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatching.

To get there: take bus line 700.

Récréoparc in Sainte-Catherine

Credit: Tourisme Montérégie

The Récréoparc’s hiking and cycling trails run along the riverbanks, offering stunning views of Montréal and the river, which are particularly colourful in autumn. In addition to its picnic and rest areas, the park is home to rich biodiversity, with herons, ducks and other migratory birds often stopping here.

To get there: take bus line 154.

Ruisseau-De Montigny Nature Park in Anjou

Credit: Luc Lavoie

The Ruisseau-De Montigny Nature Park stretches for 3.3 km, welcoming visitors to take a stroll along the stream and admire its picturesque little waterfalls. Connected to the Rivière des Prairies, the park is home to four small islands that provide refuge for a variety of wildlife: muskrats, great blue herons, ducks, and fish find it an ideal place to nest and reproduce. You can go hiking and biking in the fall, then put on your snowshoes when winter arrives.

To get there: the park is located a 14-minute walk from Anjou Station.

Pointe-aux-Prairies Nature Park in Pointe-aux-Trembles

Located in the island’s east end, Pointe-aux-Prairies Nature Park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. With 12.5 km of bike trails and protected marshland, it provides ideal habitat for a diverse range of wildlife, including the green heron, a small wading bird with unique charm.

To get there: walk 10 minutes from Pointe-aux-Trembles Station.

Boisé des lacs Fauvel à Blainville

Credit: Claude-André Fortin

Located between two stations, Boisé des Lacs Fauvel is the perfect place to get away. Its 3.5 km trail winds around two lakes and through a 70-hectare forest, which has been transformed into a sanctuary for wildlife after serving as a quarry. Wooden platforms equipped with binoculars allow visitors to observe numerous bird species and fully enjoy the site.

To get there: a 10-minute bike ride from Blainville Station.

Grand-Coteau Park in Mascouche

Grand-Coteau Park is located in the heart of Mascouche, in the Lanaudière region. This expansive, 239-hectare urban park is part of the Grand-Coteau Forest Corridor, an area of great ecological, economic and cultural value. Its well-groomed trails allow visitors to stroll through mixed forests and observe a variety of wildlife.

To get there: access the park from Mascouche Station in just a few minutes on foot or by bike.

Tylee Marsh in Rosemère

Strolling along the winding trails of Tylee Marsh is the perfect way to discover this wonderfully preserved natural environment. The elevated wooden walkway twists along the marshlands, allowing visitors to soak up the exceptional ecosystem that’s ideal for bird watching and contemplating the local plant life.

To get there: the park is located a 10-minute walk from Rosemère Station.

P’tit Train du Nord in Saint-Jérôme

Much more than a former train line, the P’tit Train du Nord is a true gem and a great example of railway rehabilitation in Québec. Converted into a bike path and cross-country ski trail, it offers a unique outdoor experience for exploring the enchanting landscapes of northern Québec.

Did you know you can bring your bike on the train? It’s another great reason to take public transit and enjoy a dose of nature.

To get there: walk 5 minutes (or cycle 1 minute) from Saint-Jérôme Station.

Going to visit the great outdoors? You can get there by public transit! Plan your trip today with our trip planner.

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