Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Hikes
Canada
Québec

Réserve Naturelle Gault-De-L'Université-Mcgill

Routes
Hikes
Canada
Québec

Réserve Naturelle Gault-De-L'Université-Mcgill

The best hikes from bus stations in Réserve Naturelle Gault-De-L'Université-Mcgill

4.9

(140)

2,846

hikers

15

hikes

Bus station hiking trails in Réserve Naturelle Gault-De-L'Université-Mcgill offer access to a protected natural environment on Mont Saint-Hilaire, approximately 40 km from Montreal. The region is characterized by its diverse landscapes, including old-growth forests, Lac Hertel, and multiple summits like Pain de Sucre and Dieppe. These trails provide varied elevation gains and opportunities to explore a UNESCO biosphere reserve known for its ecological importance. Hikers can experience a network of paths winding through ancient woodlands and around a central lake.

Last updated: July 12, 2026

4.8

(36)

600

hikers

#1.

Rocky, Deippe, and Sugarloaf loop

12.1km

03:45

430m

430m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Moderate

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
guide_signup
Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

Sign up for free

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
Sign up for free to see 11 more hikes in Réserve Naturelle Gault-De-L'Université-Mcgill.

Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Tips from the Community

Lisa
June 26, 2026, View from Sugar Loaf, Réserve Naturelle Gault

This lookout offers stunning panoramas in every direction and every season. The lush summer foliage gives way to stunning, colorful foliage in the fall.

1

0

It's well worth the trek to reach this popular summit and lookout point. When the lighting is just right, you can catch an outline of the Montreal skyline on the distant horizon.

0

0

Lisa
June 23, 2026, Colline Rocky

This is one of the most popular lookouts in the entire nature reserve. In return for about 345 m of elevation gain, you get beautiful panoramic views in every direction.

0

0

Lisa
June 23, 2026, Hertel Lake

Recreation in Hertel Lake is strictly prohibited. You can't even fish in it, thanks to its status as a carefully monitored component of McGill University's Gault Nature Reserve. With that said, it still makes a delightful backdrop for the nearby hiking trails.

0

0

Roammellow
February 8, 2026, Le Pain de Sucre

Great loop with good winter trail conditions. Quite crowded, even in winter, and there’s an entrance fee. Full winter hike video: https://youtu.be/D8jXSjValvA

0

0

Great loop with good winter trail conditions. Quite crowded, even in winter, and there’s an entrance fee. Full winter hike video: https://youtu.be/D8jXSjValvA

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many bus-accessible hiking trails are available in Réserve Naturelle Gault-De-L'Université-Mcgill?

There are 14 hiking trails in Réserve Naturelle Gault-De-L'Université-Mcgill that are easily accessible from bus stations. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy strolls to more challenging ascents.

What are the typical difficulty levels of bus-accessible hikes in the reserve?

The bus-accessible trails in Réserve Naturelle Gault-De-L'Université-Mcgill cater to various fitness levels. You'll find 9 easy routes, perfect for a relaxed outing, and 5 moderate trails for those seeking a bit more challenge and elevation gain.

Are there circular hiking routes that start and end near a bus station?

Yes, many of the trails accessible by bus are circular, allowing you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps. For example, the View from the Dieppe Summit – Gault Nature Reserve loop is a moderate 10.9 km circular hike, and the Sugarloaf loop offers an easier 5.9 km circular option.

What kind of scenery and natural features can I expect to see on these trails?

Réserve Naturelle Gault-De-L'Université-Mcgill is renowned for its diverse landscapes. You can expect to encounter ancient, old-growth forests, including rare summit oak forests, and enjoy panoramic views from various summits like Pain de Sucre and Dieppe. Many trails also circle the picturesque Lac Hertel, adding tranquil lakeside beauty to your hike. The View from the Dieppe Summit – Lake Hertel loop combines both summit views and lake scenery.

Is Réserve Naturelle Gault-De-L'Université-Mcgill suitable for family hikes?

Absolutely. With 9 easy routes available, many trails are well-suited for families. These paths often feature gentler inclines and shorter distances, allowing children to enjoy the natural surroundings. The area's rich biodiversity and scenic lake also provide engaging points of interest for younger hikers.

What is the best time of year to visit Réserve Naturelle Gault-De-L'Université-Mcgill for hiking?

The reserve offers unique beauty throughout the year. Spring brings lush greenery and migratory birds, while summer provides warm weather for exploring. Autumn transforms the forests into a spectacular display of colors. Even in winter, the reserve is popular for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, with some trails remaining accessible for winter hiking, though conditions should be checked beforehand.

Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in the Gault Nature Reserve?

As a protected UNESCO biosphere reserve and migratory bird sanctuary, the Gault Nature Reserve has specific regulations regarding pets to protect its delicate ecosystem and wildlife. It is generally not permitted to bring dogs on the trails. Please check the official reserve website for the most current and detailed pet policy before your visit.

What do other hikers say about the bus-accessible trails in this region?

The trails in Réserve Naturelle Gault-De-L'Université-Mcgill are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an impressive average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 90 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths, the stunning views from the summits, and the serene beauty of Lac Hertel and the old-growth forests.

Are there any amenities like restrooms or picnic areas available near the bus-accessible trailheads?

Yes, the Gault Nature Reserve provides amenities to ensure a comfortable visit. You can typically find restrooms and picnic areas near the main entrance or visitor center, which are usually close to the public transport drop-off points. These facilities make it convenient for hikers starting their journey from a bus station.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while hiking in the reserve?

As a migratory bird sanctuary and a UNESCO biosphere reserve, Réserve Naturelle Gault-De-L'Université-Mcgill is a haven for wildlife. You might spot over 185 species of birds, including red-headed vultures, as well as various mammals and amphibians. The rich biodiversity enhances the outdoor experience, especially for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Are there any less crowded hiking options accessible by bus?

While popular, the reserve's extensive 25 km network of trails means you can often find quieter paths, especially during off-peak hours or on weekdays. Exploring routes like the Gault Nature Reserve – View from the Dieppe Summit loop, which is a moderate 8 km, might offer a more secluded experience compared to the most central lake loops.

Most popular routes in Réserve Naturelle Gault-De-L'Université-Mcgill

Hiking in Réserve Naturelle Gault-De-L'Université-Mcgill

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Browse the best Hikes in other regions.

MontréalSaint-Jean-BaptisteQuébecSherbrookeGatineauMont-TremblantParc Du Mont-BellevueDomaine Saint-BernardParc Du Lac-BeauchampParc-Nature Du Bois-De-LiesseBois DuvernaySainte-JulieParc National Des Îles-De-BouchervilleLavalBois De L'ÉquerreParc De La Forêt-BoucherPercéParc National De L'Île-Bonaventure-Et-Du-Rocher-PercéParc-Nature De La Pointe-Aux-PrairiesParc-Nature Du Bois-De-L'Île-BizardParc De La Baie Mc-LaurinLévisRéserve Naturelle Des Battures-De-Saint-Augustin-De-DesmauresShickshock MoutainsLe Boisé Sainte-DorothéeGaspèParc National De ForillonParc Naturel Du Mont BélairTrois-RivièresRimouskiParc-Nature De L'Anse-À-L'OrmeAgglomération de LongueuilParc National D'OkaChelseaMascoucheTerrebonneParc Agricole Du Bois-De-La-RocheBlainvilleSaint-EustacheCarignanSaguenayRéserve Naturelle Du Bois-De-BrossardBois De BrossardRéserve Écologique Léon ProvancherLa MalbaieSaint-JérômeParc Régional De La Rivière-Du-NordBoisbriandSaint-Basile-le-GrandLa Prairie

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Saint-Jean-Baptiste

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy