Lac-Saint-François National Wildlife Area: trails and practical info

The trails

According to the Friends of the Lac-Saint-François National Wildlife Area, the walking trails total more than 10 km. Four sectors are described:

• Marais-Fraser (2.4 km): the trail starts at the reception post and first leads to the observation tower.
• Trille-Penché (800 m): a forest trail described as easy, with boardwalks, benches and a shelter; it is along chemin de la Pointe-Fraser, not far from the reception.
• La Digue-aux-Aigrettes (3.7 km): the trail goes around a development carried out by Ducks Unlimited.
• Piasetski (5.9 km): a loop that mostly crosses a higher, and therefore drier, part of the reserve; about 2 hours are suggested.

Season and hours

According to the Friends, the reserve is accessible from April to December, from sunrise to sunset. Maintenance and reception services are offered from May to October, and the reception pavilion is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (May to October).

Environment and Climate Change Canada states that the reserve is open to the public for day use only, that access is restricted to designated places and certain periods of the year, and that camping is prohibited.

As of November 10, 2026, the Friends' home page says: "Nous sommes fermés pour la saison 2026. Nous serons de retour au printemps prochain." ("We are closed for the 2026 season. We will be back next spring.") Their trails page says: "Nos sentiers sont ouverts!" ("Our trails are open!"). Call the Friends at 450 264-5908 before you go.

Access, reservations and dogs

Access to the trails is free and requires no reservation. Reservations are, however, mandatory for all of the Friends' activities and events, for example canoeing, sea kayaking or guided walks.

According to the Friends, dogs are allowed on the walking trails, on a leash at all times. They are not allowed on the water in the reserve. In the fall, however, Environment and Climate Change Canada allows migratory bird hunting with unleashed dogs in designated areas (see below).

Good to know before you go

Hunting: Environment and Climate Change Canada states that recreational hunting of migratory birds, including with unleashed dogs, is permitted in designated areas. It is allowed in the fall, only in a sector in the west of the reserve, and is not allowed in the Pointe Fraser I and II sectors. Find out before you visit in the fall.

The water on site is not drinkable. Environment and Climate Change Canada notes that biting insects may be present in summer, as well as ticks that can transmit Lyme disease. Its pages also mention public facilities: toilets, a visitor centre and parking.