Lanaudière doesn’t get talked about as much as the Laurentians, but it holds its own, especially if waterfalls and lake views are what you’re after. Here are three that cover an easy outing, a moderate loop, and a proper challenge.
Good to know: as of 2026, both Forêt Ouareau and Sept-Chutes are part of Québec’s Accès Nature program, which offers free daily entry to participating regional parks (book at least 24 hours ahead at toutlemondedehors.ca) (parcsregionaux.org). Worth checking before you go, since the free-access program runs on a schedule and could change.
Cap de la fée
About 8 km loop · Roughly 264 m elevation gain · Easy
Near St-Donat, this trail follows a stream with a few cascades before climbing to a summit view over Lac Archambault, with Mont Garceau across the water. It’s well marked with signs at every intersection, and the parking lot fills up fast, so aim to get there early. A great low-commitment hike for a group with mixed experience levels.
Massif Trail Loop
11.6 km loop · 412 m elevation gain · Moderate
Located in Parc régional de la Forêt Ouareau, this loop is best done clockwise: you’ll hit a steep 220 m climb over 1.8 km early on at the 2.5 km mark, then finish on easier, road-like trail. There are several forks, but they’re all signed. Expect mud, so hiking boots and poles are worth bringing. The lake views on the final stretch are a nice payoff.
Seven Waterfalls Loop
10.5 km · 618 m elevation gain · Hard
This one in Parc régional des Sept-Chutes starts on rocky terrain with ropes to assist the climb, and it gets trickier if the ground is wet. Once the trail levels out, you get lake views facing Mont Brassard, followed by more viewpoints at Ste-Émilie and Mont Barrière before the final climb to Balcon du Nord. Note the park limits entry once parking fills up, so don’t leave it too late in the day.
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