From Montreal: Mont-Tremblant National Park Hiking Day Trip

Traveling from Montreal to Mont-Tremblant National Park for a day of hiking offers a fantastic way to escape the city and reconnect with nature. This full-day tour, offered by Bonjour Nature, combines scenic trails, wildlife spotting, and breathtaking viewpoints—all for a reasonable price of $72 per person. Whether you’re into active outdoor days or just want a peaceful break amid lush forests, this trip has plenty to offer.

What genuinely attracts many travelers is the chance to learn about the region from knowledgeable guides and to enjoy a picnic surrounded by wilderness. However, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a guided hike—so you should be comfortable navigating trails on your own. The trip suits active travelers, nature lovers, or anyone craving a day outside of Montreal with minimal fuss and maximum scenery.

For those who appreciate a relaxed yet scenic day with the flexibility to choose different trails and activities, this trip can be an excellent option. Keep in mind, though, that while it’s a good fit for most, those with accessibility needs might find it less suitable.

Key Points

• Beautiful natural setting: Explore Mont-Tremblant’s well-maintained trails and scenic vistas.
• Informative guides: Benefit from local insights before your hike to better understand the area’s topography and history.
• Flexible hiking options: Choose your trail—from relaxing walks to more vigorous climbs.
• Wildlife and scenery: Expect to see local animals and stunning landscapes, especially from viewpoints.
• Comfortable transport: Roundtrip transportation from Montreal makes the day hassle-free.
• Value for money: For $72, you get a full day in nature with entry to the park, making it quite accessible.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Day

The day begins early, with a meet-up at the Metro Radisson in Montreal at 8:00 AM. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable minibus, driven by friendly guides who are fluent in both French and English. The journey to Mont-Tremblant National Park is smooth and straightforward, with a quick stop at a grocery store for last-minute essentials, which is a handy touch to prepare you for the day ahead.

Once you arrive, your guide will provide some background info about the region. Although the hike itself isn’t guided step-by-step, the guide’s presence ensures you’re well-informed about what you’re seeing, and they’re happy to answer questions. You’ll be free to select your preferred trail, whether it’s a leisurely walk or a more challenging ascent.

Trails and Activities

The park offers several highlights that cater to different interests and energy levels:

• The Pimbina trail: This trail is a favorite for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful forest views. It’s perfect if you’re after a relaxing walk surrounded by nature.
• Wildlife spotting: As you hike, keep an eye out for the local fauna, which many visitors find exciting. The reviews highlight the abundance of wildlife, and some travelers even appreciated the guide taking them to spots like a waterfall they wouldn’t have discovered alone.
• Picnic lunch: Around midday, you’ll find a serene spot to enjoy your packed lunch. The tranquility of the forest makes for a memorable dining experience, and many appreciate this restful pause.
• Afternoon options: For the more energetic, trails leading to the Chute-aux-rats are popular, with the opportunity to swim in the summer months. Those wanting panoramic views can hike to the Mont-des-Cascades or the L’envol viewpoint. The latter provides sweeping vistas that many reviewers say are worth the effort.

Highlights from Guest Reviews

A recurring theme among reviews is the quality of the guides. Dylan from the UK mentioned, “The guide was excellent, gave plenty of information, and looked after us all,” which reflects the tour’s emphasis on good support and local expertise. Jennifer from France appreciated the driver and guide, noting their kindness and the interest they shared, including a waterfall detour not initially planned.

Travelers also rave about the scenery. Chloé from France described her day as “really nice,” especially enjoying the quietness of the Pimbina area. Tiffany from the UK called it “amazing,” emphasizing the beauty of the park and the informative nature of the host.

Transportation and Logistics

The round-trip transport is straightforward, with pickup at the Metro Radisson. The journey takes roughly two hours each way, giving you plenty of time to relax and chat with fellow travelers. The group sizes are typically small to medium, making it easier to feel connected and receive attention from the guide. The return trip departs at 4:00 PM, ensuring you’re back in Montreal by around 6:00 PM.

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The Value and Overall Experience

At $72, this tour offers a lot compared to booking individual transportation and park entry separately. It’s particularly appealing for those who want a hassle-free way to visit Mont-Tremblant without renting a car or planning logistics. The entry to the park is included, and the guide’s local knowledge significantly enhances the experience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

While the hike isn’t guided step-by-step, the presence of a knowledgeable guide ensures you’re well-informed and safe. The flexibility to choose your trail lets you tailor the day to your energy level. Plus, the option to swim or reach scenic viewpoints makes it more than just a walk in the woods.

The reviews consistently mention the friendly attitude of the guides and drivers, which adds to the overall comfort and enjoyment. Travelers appreciate the clear communication and the little extras like the stop at the grocery store, making this a thoughtfully organized trip.

Potential Downsides

One thing to keep in mind is the fact that the hike is not guided in the traditional sense—you’ll need to navigate the trails yourself, so good footwear and some basic trail confidence are recommended. Also, the signs at the park can sometimes be unclear, as some reviewers pointed out, so familiarizing yourself with the trail map beforehand may be helpful.

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, which is worth considering if accessibility is a concern. Plus, if you’re traveling in less predictable weather, be prepared for rain or shine, since the trip goes ahead regardless of weather conditions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip is ideal if you’re someone looking for an easy, well-organized escape into nature. It’s perfect for active travelers who enjoy hiking but are comfortable exploring independently. Nature lovers, wildlife buffs, and those craving panoramic views will find plenty to enjoy. The price point makes it accessible for most budgets, especially compared to organizing your own trip, transport, and park entry.

It’s a good choice for travelers staying in Montreal who want a straightforward, scenic, and relatively affordable outdoor adventure without the need for a car. If you’re looking for a guided experience with detailed trail narration, this may not be the best fit, but for those who prefer a bit of independence combined with local insights, it strikes a good balance.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour is generally active and involves hiking, it doesn’t specifically cater to children or families. If your kids are comfortable with walking and outdoor activities, you’ll likely enjoy it. However, since it’s not explicitly family-oriented, check trail difficulty and weather considerations.

Do I need to bring my own food?
Yes, you’ll want to bring your own picnic lunch or snacks. The tour provides a scenic spot to enjoy it, but no meals are included.

What should I wear for the hike?
Dress in weather-appropriate outdoor clothing and sturdy hiking shoes. Don’t forget biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, and water to stay hydrated.

Will I be able to swim during the tour?
If visiting in summer, you can go for a swim at Chute-aux-rats after hiking along the river trails. It’s a refreshing way to cool off and unwind.

How long is the drive from Montreal?
The journey takes roughly two hours each way, giving you plenty of time to relax or chat during transportation.

Is the trip guided step-by-step?
No, the hike itself isn’t guided, but your guide will share information at the start and may accompany you to special spots like waterfalls or viewpoints if time permits.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some peace of mind if your schedule shifts.

All in all, this Mont-Tremblant National Park day trip offers a well-rounded outdoor experience that balances scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and manageable hiking. It’s a solid option for travelers who want to explore Quebec’s natural wonders without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Just come prepared for the trails, and you’ll likely find it to be a memorable, refreshing day out of Montreal.

You can check availability for your dates here: