By
| Difficulty | Moderate | |
| Distance | 7 KM | |
| Estimated Time | 3h | |
| Height / altitude | 414 meters | |
| Elevation gain | 240 meters | |
| Child friendly |
See photos of hiking
List of hiking trails
| Trails | Distance | Elevation | Type | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passerelle (trottoir de bois) | 0.4 km | 0 m | Linear | Beginner |
| Lac Hertel | 0.5 km | 0 m | Linear | Beginner |
| Burned Hill | 1.3 km | 160 m | Linear | Beginner |
| Mauve | 4.9 km | 0 m | Loop | Beginner |
| Pain de sucre | 2.6 km | 255 m | Linear | Intermediate |
| Dieppe | 3.7 km | 220 m | Linear | Intermediate |
| Rocky | 8.8 km | 240 m | Loop | Intermediate |
Why choose a trail at Mont St Hilaire?
The Gault Nature Reserve has been owned by McGill University since 1958.
It is located in Mont Saint-Hilaire, Quebec and protects over 1,000 hectares of natural environments.
The Gault Nature Reserve is composed of three different development sectors: conservation, public and service.
These departments were created to achieve some sort of balance between human use of the mountains and ecosystem protection.
This unique nature reserve has 25 kilometers of hiking trails and 4 mountain peaks, with stunning views of the city and the entire natural environment.
The Gault Preserve is not among most people's favorite destinations for nothing. Many love its animal diversity, including several mammal viewing points within the reserve.
In 1978, the Gault Nature Reserve was recognized by UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere Program as the first biosphere reserve in Canada.
To this day, the Gault Nature Reserve is still a place rich in biodiversity. Whether on the trail or by the Hertel Lake, you'll enjoy watching the birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians, fish and trees that cross your path.
Animal species include 41 species of mammals (skunk, fox, raccoon, porcupine, muskrat, squirrel, deer), and 178 species of birds (pileated woodpecker, warbler, hawk, etc).
Access price:
The price of access to the nature reserve is as follows:
● Adult price : $8.00 ( Note that online booking is required)
● Children's price 17 and under: free
Good news! The Gault Nature Preserve is open year-round.
What are the services on site?
Trail maps
Rate & open hour
Check the Reserve's website.
45.550602
What are the coordinates and address ?
Starting Point
From Route 116 in Mont-Saint-Hilaire, take Fortier Street, which becomes Ozias-Leduc Road. Then turn left onto Chemin de la Montagne. Then left again on Chemin des Moulins through which you access the Gault Nature Reserve.
Why visit Mont St Hilaire
25 km of trails are laid out to allow visitors to get to the various observation points.
The footbridge and the Hertel Lake trails are approximately 0.5 km. Their level is considered easy.
The Burned Hill Trail is 1.3 km long. Its level is also considered easy.
The purple path is considered easy. Its length is 4.9 kilometres.
The Sugar Bread and Dieppe trails run successively for 2.6 and 3.7 kilometres.
And finally, the Rocky Trail is a 8.8 km trail and its level is also considered intermediate.
Things not to be missed
There are several accommodations available next to the Gault Nature Reserve. You can find cabins, cottages, campings, bungalows , and of course hotels.
However if you are looking for a unique stay that will give you an out of the ordinary but more importantly a memorable experience, we've done some research to pull out the two best hideaways you can find in the Gault Nature Reserve area.
Where to stay? - Our favourites
Natalie's houseboat
Perfect for three people, this gem is 50 minutes away from the phonic reserve. But trust me, it is definitely worth it. Very well equipped, this peniche located over the water has a large terrace with a panoramic view where you can contemplate nature.
Parking is not far from the accommodation and is free of charge, and finally, just bring your blankets and a propane tank.
Dome House
Perfect for four people, this small dome house is located 40 minutes from the Gault Nature Reserve. You can enjoy a beautiful stay while having your eyes glued to the sky even when you are in bed. However, everyone should bring their blankets.
Where to eat?
In conclusion, we thought about you, and figured that at some point you'll definitely get hungry. Whether you're alone, in love, or with your kids, these restaurants noted below are for you!
Savoy Deli Restaurant
As I pointed out earlier, the Savoy Deli Restaurant is a restaurant with a family atmosphere. A beautiful terrace with a panoramic view of the mountain is available
Everything is perfect there, ranging from the food to the staff. It should be noted that the owner of the restaurant always stays around to make sure his customers are satisfied.
Grandma Hen
For vegetarians, and people who don't like gluten, this restaurant is for you. The restaurant can make exceptions and prepare gluten-free dishes for you, but also vegetarian dishes.
The menu is diverse, the price is affordable the service is fast and exceptional, the restaurant is very clean and the staff is up to the task.
Let’s Answer Your Questions - FAQ
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414.00 M
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All year round, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. * Hours may vary by season.
Check the Reserve's website. -
3h
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Yes
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8.00 $
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No
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Yes
What is the level of difficulty of Mont Saint-Hilaire ?
What is the elevation of Mont Saint-Hilaire?
What is the height of Mont Saint-Hilaire ?
What are the opening hours?
How long on average?
Is the place are families friendly?
Can I see the trail map?
How much does a ticket cost?
Do I have to pay for parking?
Is there an information center / service center / reception?
Explore other trails in Montérégie
She life was a celebration of adventure, joy, and the great outdoors. She lived with a fierce determination to enjoy every moment and to share that joy with others. Her legacy is one of laughter, exploration, and an unwavering love for the natural world. Lydia's spirit continues to inspire those who knew her and those who discover her story, reminding us all to embrace life with open arms and a heart full of joy.
Hiker reviews on this trail
5 out of 5 stars
Based on 7 reviews
Recent reviews
5 out of 5 stars
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