Six hours of fresh air beats city noise. This Sept-Chutes Regional Park day trip turns a long hike into a low-stress plan, with a scenic drive through Lanaudière before you ever lace up your shoes. I especially like the way the driver/guide adds context on the region along the way, so the countryside feels like more than just scenery (Lanaudière drive).

I also really like the trail setup once you’re in the park. The hike is self-guided, but you’re not left guessing—paths use color-coded markers, and there’s a clear favorite route to start with: the Mont-Brassard loop.

One thing to consider: the hike itself isn’t led step-by-step. If you want someone to decide everything for you, you’ll need to be comfortable picking a route and following the signage (self-guided).

Quick hits before you go

• Air-conditioned roundtrip van from Station Radisson (Bonjour Nature logo on a white bus)
• Driver/guide orientation in the morning before you enter the park
• Mont-Brassard loop for big views, using the Veil of the Bride trail to Lac Guy, then on to Lac Rémi
• Picnic and a possible swim near Lac Rémi on a sunny day
• Color-coded trails that make navigation much easier than you’d expect

Leaving Montreal the easy way: the Lanaudière van ride

This is one of those tours that makes you feel slightly smarter than the people who rented a car. You meet in central Montreal (Station Radisson is one of the options), board a white van/bus with the Bonjour Nature logo, and settle in.

The drive matters more than you might think. It’s not just a transfer—on the way, your driver/guide explains the history and background of the Lanaudière region, so when you arrive in Parc régional des Sept-Chutes, you already know what kind of place you’re exploring. Expect about 1.5 hours each way by van.

And yes, the transport is a real quality point here. The ride is reported as highly rated, with 86% of reviewers giving it a perfect score. So you’re not starting the day frazzled or cramped.

Sept-Chutes Regional Park: 6 hours of self-guided trail time

Once you get to the park, the format is simple. Your driver/guide accompanies you to the entrance, shares helpful info about the area, and then you hike independently.

That can be a plus for the right person. You get freedom to set your own pace, stop for photos, and take your time near the lakes. It also means you’re not stuck with a group-speed march. Small group size helps too—this outing caps at 11 participants, which usually means less crowding on the trails.

The park itself has several kilometers of routes that go through different types of forests and surroundings. In practice, what you’re looking for is variation: stretches that feel cooler and shaded, plus spots where you can see farther once you gain elevation.

Navigation: color-coded and straightforward

If you’ve ever been stuck with a trail system where nothing matches your map, you’ll appreciate how this one is marked. Trails use color-coded markers posted on trees. That’s a big deal when you’re self-guided. You can choose a route based on what you want to do that day—longer walk, shorter loop, or a mix.

The Mont-Brassard loop route that fits a first-timer

If you don’t know which trail to pick, use the park’s popular “starter” option: the Mont-Brassard loop.

Here’s the route logic in plain language:

• Start from reception.
• Take the Veil of the Bride trail toward Lac Guy.
• Once you’re at Lac Guy, head westward toward Lac Rémi.
• From there, continue your loop to reach the top of Mont Brassard for panoramic views.

This route is good because it blends three things you want on a day like this: a lake approach (Lac Guy and then Lac Rémi), a payoff climb (Mont Brassard), and a place to rest and eat without hauling your daypack into a wilderness survival situation.

How long does it take?

One common walk described is around 8.3 miles (13 km), with a moderate effort level. You should still plan for a full day of moving, stopping, and lingering—this tour is about 6 hours in the park, not a quick in-and-out hike.

What to expect at the top

When you get up near the top of Mont Brassard, you’ll feel the “cool mountain air” and get the views that justify the climb. Even if you’re not a summit chaser, this is the moment that makes the day feel special—especially if the weather is clear.

Picnic by Lac Rémi, plus a swim if the weather behaves

Lac Rémi is where your relaxed part of the day happens.

The plan includes time for picnic lunch near Lac Rémi, and on a sunny day you can even cool off with a swim. This is one of those “why didn’t I think of that earlier?” perks. You’re hiking all day, then you get water time without needing to plan a separate stop.

To make this work smoothly, follow the simple prep list:

• Bring a packed lunch
• Pack swimwear if there’s any chance you’ll want to get in
• Bring water so you’re not rationing sips at the wrong time

And don’t ignore the basic comfort stuff. Insects can be an issue in wooded areas, so bring insect repellent, and consider bringing biodegradable sunscreen—the day can still add sun even when the air feels cool.

Rain or shine: how to dress so the day stays enjoyable

This tour runs rain or shine. That’s great if you like certainty. It also means your clothing choices matter.

Wear weather-appropriate outdoor clothing and bring hiking shoes you trust on uneven ground. If it’s wet, you don’t want to be thinking about traction. The park trails connect forests and lake areas, so you can expect variety in footing from patch to patch.

A practical way to approach it: dress for movement first, comfort second. You’ll be walking for hours, and you’ll want layers you can manage if the weather shifts.

You should also assume you’ll be outside for most of the day. That’s why the list includes:

• Water
• Biodegradable sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Weather-ready clothing

Price and value: what you’re actually paying for

At $73 per person for a 1-day experience, you’re paying for convenience and planning help—not just for “being outdoors.”

Here’s what’s included:

• Roundtrip transportation from central Montreal (Station Radisson option)
• A driver/guide who accompanies you to the entrance and gives park and area info
• Entry ticket to Sept-Chutes Regional Park

What’s not included is the hiking itself being guided. The hike is self-guided.

So is it good value? For the kind of traveler who likes independent wandering, yes. You’re avoiding the hassle of figuring out transport, getting to the park, and paying entry separately. Add the small group size, plus the air-conditioned return on bus/van, and the price looks more reasonable.

If you’re the type who wants a guide to lead every step, this might feel like you’re paying for a ride more than for an expedition. But if you’re comfortable navigating with color-coded trails, this format is efficient.

Logistics that matter: meeting point, timing, and group feel

You’ll want to be easygoing and a little alert on timing.

• Look for a white bus with the Bonjour Nature logo at the meeting point.
• The tour uses Station Radisson as one of the starting and drop-off locations.
• Expect about 1.5 hours of van time in each direction and about 6 hours at the park.

One smart move: confirm the return time directly with your driver/guide when you arrive at the entrance. Weather and real-world pacing can shift the day. And since the hike is self-guided, you’ll want to give yourself enough buffer to enjoy Lac Rémi and still make the pickup.

Small group size (up to 11) also means fewer “where do we all meet again?” moments. You’ll generally have a smoother day because everyone isn’t spread across multiple vanloads.

Who this hike suits best (and who might want a different plan)

This trip fits you if you want:

• A moderate hike that still feels like an all-day adventure
• Panoramic views from Mont Brassard
• Time for a picnic and the option to swim at Lac Rémi
• Independent hiking with an easy navigation method (color-coded trails)

It may not fit you if:

• You rely on a guided hiking leader to choose and pace everything
• You need mobility support—this activity is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users

If you’re a first-timer in the area, you’ll like having a recommended route (the Mont-Brassard loop) and a driver/guide who explains what to expect right at the start.

Should you book the Sept-Chutes Regional Park hike from Montreal?

I think you should book this if you want an easy win: transport handled, entry included, and a self-guided route that still delivers real payoff views.

Book it especially if you like day trips where you can do your own pacing—stop at the lakes, eat without stress, and hike toward the best viewpoint without needing a live guide on every switchback. You’ll get a solid mix of mountain air, lake time, and a park that’s set up to be navigable.

If you want a tightly guided hiking experience with step-by-step leadership, you might feel the lack of a guided hike. But for many hikers, that independence is exactly the charm.

FAQ

Where do I meet for the Sept-Chutes hike?

You meet at central Montreal, with Station Radisson as one of the starting and drop-off options. Look for a white bus with the Bonjour Nature logo.

How long is the tour?

It’s a 1-day outing. Plan on about 1.5 hours by van each way and about 6 hours in the park.

What is the price per person?

The price is $73 per person.

Is transportation included?

Yes. Roundtrip transportation is included, plus a driver/guide who takes you to the park.

Is the hike guided?

No. The hike is self-guided. Your driver/guide accompanies you to the entrance and provides information, but you hike on your own afterward.

Which language will the driver/guide speak?

The driver/guide speaks French and English.

Can I swim during the tour?

You can swim near Lac Rémi, and the swim option is described as possible on a sunny day.

What trail should I choose if I don’t know where to start?

Choose the Mont-Brassard loop. Take the Veil of the Bride trail toward Lac Guy, then head westward toward Lac Rémi.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear (if you plan to swim), hiking shoes, water, biodegradable sunscreen, a packed lunch, insect repellent, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Is the activity suitable for wheelchair users or mobility impairments?

No. It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.