Practical info & difficulties
| Difficulty | Moderate | |
| Distance | 7 KM | |
| Estimated Time | 3h | |
| Height / altitude | 414 meters | |
| Elevation gain | 240 meters | |
| Child friendly |
Local activities
In addition to hiking, there are many other activities on offer.
Hiking trails available
Trails list
| Trails | Distance | Elevation | Type | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Passerelle (trottoir de bois) |
0.4 km | 0 m | Linear | Beginner |
Lac Hertel |
0.5 km | 0 m | Linear | Beginner |
Burned Hill |
1.3 km | 160 m | Linear | Beginner |
Mauve |
4.9 km | 0 m | Loop | Beginner |
Pain de sucre |
2.6 km | 255 m | Linear | Intermediate |
Dieppe |
3.7 km | 220 m | Linear | Intermediate |
Rocky |
8.8 km | 240 m | Loop | Intermediate |
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Photos
The Gault Nature Reserve has been owned by McGill University since 1958.
It is located in Mont Saint-Hilaire, Quebec and protects over 1,000 hectares of natural environments.
The Gault Nature Reserve is composed of three different development sectors: conservation, public and service.
These departments were created to achieve some sort of balance between human use of the mountains and ecosystem protection.
This unique nature reserve has 25 kilometers of hiking trails and 4 mountain peaks, with stunning views of the city and the entire natural environment.
The Gault Preserve is not among most people's favorite destinations for nothing. Many love its animal diversity, including several mammal viewing points within the reserve.
In 1978, the Gault Nature Reserve was recognized by UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere Program as the first biosphere reserve in Canada.
To this day, the Gault Nature Reserve is still a place rich in biodiversity. Whether on the trail or by the Hertel Lake, you'll enjoy watching the birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians, fish and trees that cross your path.
Animal species include 41 species of mammals (skunk, fox, raccoon, porcupine, muskrat, squirrel, deer), and 178 species of birds (pileated woodpecker, warbler, hawk, etc).
Access price:
The price of access to the nature reserve is as follows:
● Adult price : $8.00 ( Note that online booking is required)
● Children's price 17 and under: free
Good news! The Gault Nature Preserve is open year-round.
On-site services
Trail maps
Useful infos
Rate & open hour
All year round, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. * Hours may vary by season.
Check the Reserve's website.
45.550602
Address
Starting Point
From Route 116 in Mont-Saint-Hilaire, take Fortier Street, which becomes Ozias-Leduc Road. Then turn left onto Chemin de la Montagne. Then left again on Chemin des Moulins through which you access the Gault Nature Reserve.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions
What is the level of difficulty of Mont Saint-Hilaire ?
What is the elevation of Mont Saint-Hilaire?
What is the height of Mont Saint-Hilaire ?
What are the opening hours?
All year round, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. * Hours may vary by season.
Check the Reserve's website.
How long on average?
Is the place are families friendly?
Can I see the trail map?
How much does a ticket cost?
Do I have to pay for parking?
Is there an information center / service center / reception?
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She life was a celebration of adventure, joy, and the great outdoors. She lived with a fierce determination to enjoy every moment and to share that joy with others. Her legacy is one of laughter, exploration, and an unwavering love for the natural world. Lydia's spirit continues to inspire those who knew her and those who discover her story, reminding us all to embrace life with open arms and a heart full of joy.
Hikers' opinions
5 out of 5 stars
Based on 7 reviews
5 out of 5 stars
7 years ago4 out of 5 stars
7 years ago