One of Québec’s greatest treasures is its ability to completely transform with each passing season, constantly offering new ways to enjoy the outdoors. From the first blooms of spring to snow-covered winter trails, not to mention warm summer days and the famous fall colours, the Laurentians are filled with opportunities to experience the region to the fullest.
Just one hour from Montreal, Parc régional Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts is the perfect starting point for discovering the Laurentians from a different perspective. With over 800 acres of protected land, a natural reserve and a wide range of four-season activities for all ages, the park offers a rare balance between escape and accessibility.
Nestled between forest and lake, Parc régional Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts offers a fully immersive nature experience. Its 60 km of hiking trails, designed for all skill levels, remain open year-round and invite visitors of all ages to reconnect with the outdoors. Accessible from the StoneHaven trail, a scenic lookout reveals breathtaking views of Petit lac des Sables and the Laurentian mountains.
But Parc régional Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts is more than just a vast outdoor playground. It’s also an invitation to slow down and reconnect with what matters most, thanks to its four-season accommodations. The site features 3 fully equipped chalets and 4 pods that can comfortably accommodate up to four guests.
Beyond everything the park has to offer, visitors can extend the experience by:
As the days grow longer, nature slowly awakens once again. Wildlife emerges from hibernation, and suddenly, we feel like doing the same. Spring is the ideal time to enjoy the outdoors before the busy high season begins.
Along the trails, nature reveals itself through the little details: birds returning from migration, flowing streams coming back to life and the first buds appearing on tree branches.
For the most enjoyable experience, sturdy hiking shoes are essential for safely exploring trails still damp from melting snow. Dressing in layers is also recommended, making it easy to adjust throughout the day as temperatures shift.
After a hike, visitors can embrace the calm surroundings through slower moments, whether reading comfortably on the porch of a chalet or pod, or relaxing in one of the park’s many common areas.
Warm weather, sunny skies and vacation season make summer one of the busiest times of year in the Laurentians. Planning ahead is strongly recommended, especially for visitors hoping to extend their stay with overnight accommodations.
For a more intimate and unique experience, Exhalte Island’s ready-to-camp units offer a secluded stay surrounded by nature. Designed for two adults, they are ideal for couples looking to enjoy the outdoors without compromising comfort.
Beyond hiking, visitors can cool off at Major Beach, located directly across from the park’s main reception area and featuring a supervised swimming zone. For a different perspective on the landscape, guests can also rent canoes, kayaks, paddleboards or pedal boats through the park’s watercraft rental service.
Campers also enjoy exclusive facilities and activities throughout the summer season, including a recreation hall, mini-golf, splash pad, shuffleboard, basketball, pickleball, pétanque and much more.
At the end of the day, nothing beats gathering around a campfire with firewood available for purchase at the main reception.
The weeks following back-to-school season also mark the arrival of one of Québec’s most spectacular annual phenomena: fall colours. In the Laurentians, the transformation begins as early as September, making it the perfect time to plan a nature getaway.
Fall is also one of the last opportunities to enjoy camping before the season ends in mid-October.
Just like in spring, crisp air, unpredictable weather and changing temperatures call for layered clothing, waterproof outerwear and sturdy hiking boots. As visitors explore the trails, the sound of leaves crunching beneath their feet becomes part of the experience.
After a day outdoors, there’s nothing better than warming up inside a cozy chalet or pod.
As soon as winter settles in, the park transforms into a true enchanted forest. Groomed trails and fresh snow delight cross-country skiers and snowshoe enthusiasts alike, including those trying the activities for the very first time thanks to on-site equipment rentals available at the main reception.
A waxing station is also available on site to help visitors start the ski season on the right foot. Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts residents benefit from free trail access upon presentation of their resident card at reception.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced outdoor enthusiast, winter at the park is all about moving at your own pace. Between every breath of crisp air, visitors are surrounded by near-total silence, interrupted only by the soft crunch of snow beneath their feet.
The end of winter also coincides with March Break, when several activities are organized on site in collaboration with the City of Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts.
As you can see, every season completely transforms the experience. Fortunately, Parc régional Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts is far enough to disconnect… and close enough to come back.
No matter the time of year, we’ll be waiting for you. Book your next getaway today.
