The best walks and hikes around Notre-Dame-des-Bois
4.8
(47)
2,254
hikers
15
hikes
Hiking around Notre-Dame-des-Bois offers trails through elevated mountainous terrain, characteristic of one of Quebec's highest villages at 555 meters. The region is defined by a "sea of mountains" including Mont Mégantic, Mont Saint-Joseph, and Saddle Hill, providing diverse elevations for hiking. Dense forests cover the landscape, serving as habitats for various wildlife. The area features extensive trail networks suitable for different experience levels.
Best hiking trails around Notre-Dame-des-Bois
- The most popular hiking route is Col des Trois Sommets – Mont Mégantic Observatory loop from ASTROLab, a 9.6 miles (15.4 km) trail that takes 5 hours 1 minute to complete. This difficult route ascends through mountainous terrain to the Mont Mégantic Observatory.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Mont Mégantic Observatory – Col des Trois Sommets loop from ASTROLab, a moderate 7.6 miles (12.2 km) path. This trail offers views of the Mont Mégantic Observatory and the Col des Trois Sommets.
- Local hikers also love the Saddle Hill – Canada–USA Border Trail loop from Stationnement de l’abri trois faces de la Montagne de Marbre, an 8.7 miles (14.0 km) trail leading through Saddle Hill and along the Canada–USA Border Trail, often completed in about 4 hours 14 minutes.
- Hiking around Notre-Dame-des-Bois is defined by elevated mountainous terrain, dense forests, and diverse trail networks. The region offers options for various ability levels, from moderate paths to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Notre-Dame-des-Bois are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 30 reviews. More than 1600 hikers have used komoot to explore Notre-Dame-des-Bois's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
4.0
(4)
267
hikers
15.4km
05:02
690m
690m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
222
hikers
12.2km
03:54
520m
520m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.9
(9)
165
hikers
12.6km
04:03
510m
510m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
61
hikers
11.3km
03:40
500m
500m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
43
hikers
8.78km
02:54
400m
400m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Notre-Dame-des-Bois
Tips from the Community
Right of access to the park required to take the road to the summits.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Notre-Dame-des-Bois?
Notre-Dame-des-Bois offers a diverse network of over 15 hiking trails. These include 4 easy routes, 10 moderate paths, and 1 challenging trail, catering to various experience levels.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Notre-Dame-des-Bois?
Yes, Notre-Dame-des-Bois features 4 easy hiking trails perfect for beginners or families. The region's diverse terrain includes less strenuous paths, often found within areas like Parc National du Mont-Mégantic, which offers routes suitable for all fitness levels.
Where can I find challenging hikes in Notre-Dame-des-Bois?
For a challenging experience, consider the Col des Trois Sommets – Mont Mégantic Observatory loop from ASTROLab. This difficult 9.6-mile (15.4 km) route ascends through mountainous terrain to the Mont Mégantic Observatory, offering a significant physical test and rewarding views.
Are there circular hiking routes available in Notre-Dame-des-Bois?
Many of the trails in Notre-Dame-des-Bois are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Mont Mégantic Observatory – Col des Trois Sommets loop from ASTROLab and the Saddle Hill – Canada–USA Border Trail loop.
What are some notable natural features or viewpoints along the trails?
The region is rich in natural beauty, offering breathtaking views of its mountainous landscape, including Mont Mégantic, Mont Saint-Joseph, and Saddle Hill. Trails often lead to spectacular vistas perfect for photography, especially during sunrises and sunsets. The area is also part of the International Dark Sky Reserve, providing unparalleled stargazing opportunities.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Notre-Dame-des-Bois?
Notre-Dame-des-Bois is beautiful year-round. While summer and fall offer vibrant foliage and comfortable temperatures for hiking, the region also provides options for winter activities like skiing and snowshoeing. The diverse landscapes ensure a unique experience in any season.
Are there options for long-distance hiking in the region?
Yes, for those seeking more extensive treks, the Mini Compostelle Mégantic offers a network of long-distance hiking routes. These can span 3 to 6 days and pass through nine different municipalities, providing a comprehensive exploration of the area.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Notre-Dame-des-Bois?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 30 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunning mountainous landscapes, the diverse trail networks catering to all levels, and the unique natural attractions like the International Dark Sky Reserve.
Are there any specific parks or protected areas for hiking?
Parc National du Mont-Mégantic is a primary destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering extensive hiking trails totaling 50 km (31 miles). This provincial park combines natural beauty with scientific attractions like the ASTROLab.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while hiking?
The natural environment of Notre-Dame-des-Bois is rich in biodiversity. Its dense forests serve as habitats for various wildlife, including deer, moose, foxes, minks, and lynxes. The region is also along the migration route for numerous bird species, such as the protected Bicknell's thrush.
Are there any moderate difficulty trails that offer great views?
Absolutely. The View of Mont Saint-Joseph – Col des Trois Sommets loop from ASTROLab is a moderate 7.9-mile (12.7 km) trail that offers excellent views of Mont Saint-Joseph and the surrounding mountainous terrain.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
While specific parking details vary by trailhead, major access points like the ASTROLab within Parc National du Mont-Mégantic and the Stationnement de l’abri trois faces de la Montagne de Marbre typically offer designated parking areas for hikers.
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