Mont Owl's Head hiking trails in Potton

The Owl's Head hiking trails start at the ski lodge, at the base of the ski runs, at 40 chemin du Mont Owl's Head in Mansonville, in the Township of Potton (Eastern Townships). According to the resort, they cross a mixed forest and lead to the summit, with the view of Lake Memphremagog and Vermont as the final reward. The resort describes the mountain as little frequented.

The four resort trails

The resort lists four paths:

• L'Échappée: 1.2 km, linear, intermediate.
• Abénakis-Maçonnique: 2 km, linear, intermediate.
• Chalet: 3.2 km, loop, advanced.
• Panorama: 5.4 km, loop, advanced.

The Municipality of the Township of Potton, which presents these trails on its hiking page, publishes different figures. It describes the Panorama as the ascent of the mountain through mixed forest to the main lift station: 3.3 km one way, 1 h 30 to 2 h depending on your physical strength, rated difficult, with the option of making a loop by coming down the Abénakis-Maçonnique or the ski runs. The Abénakis-Maçonnique is given as 2.3 km one way, 1 h 30, difficult. L'Échappée is a shortcut you take from the Panorama by following the signs to the right: it leads quickly to the ski runs (1.2 km one way, 30 to 45 minutes, intermediate). Potton adds a fifth trail, the Anaconda (formerly Raquette): a 2.6 km loop, 1 h to 1 h 30, easy with a few small intermediate climbs. It does not go to the summit.

Where to start

The trailhead is by the ski lodge, at the very bottom of the ski runs. For the Panorama, the municipality says to go through a street lined with condos first, then keep going straight onto the trail; because a new road is being built, the start has been slightly rerouted and the signs moved. For the Abénakis-Maçonnique and the Anaconda, meet at the second parking lot, on the left of the main parking lot.

A 150-year-old path

According to the resort, the Abenaki used this route to reach the summit, and the Freemasons took virtually the same route to their lodge at the top of the mountain. The Abénakis-Maçonnique path pays tribute to that history. The terrain can be steep in spots and very slippery after rain.

What you can see

The resort describes a panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding mountains, including Jay Peak, Éléphant and Orford. It adds that you may spot birds of prey, such as turkey vultures and eagles.

Dogs, access and safety

Path access is free of charge at all times. Dogs are allowed as long as they are leashed at all times; they must remain in designated areas, and dog waste must be picked up immediately and put in the designated bins. The paths are not monitored: the resort states that it is not responsible for hikers' safety, and that hikers must have the proper skills and equipment. In an emergency, dial 911. The Municipality of Potton reminds visitors that camping and fires are not allowed on Owl's Head mountain.

Trail map

The trail map can be downloaded from the Township of Potton website.