The best walks and hikes around Saint-Charles-sur-Richelieu
4.9
(98)
2,320
hikers
23
hikes
Hiking around Saint-Charles-sur-Richelieu offers a variety of trails through natural reserves and around significant hills. The landscape is characterized by features such as the Gault Nature Reserve, Lake Hertel, and various summits like Dieppe Summit and Burnt Hill. These physical features provide diverse terrain for outdoor activities. The region's trails often include forested areas and offer views from elevated points.
Best hiking trails around Saint-Charles-sur-Richelieu
- The most popular hiking route is View from the Dieppe Summit – Gault Nature Reserve…
Last updated: November 4, 2026
4.8
(39)
669
hikers
12.1km
03:45
430m
430m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.9
(9)
170
hikers
6.34km
02:05
290m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.8
(9)
349
hikers
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(8)
295
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.9
(9)
131
hikers
13.6km
04:33
660m
660m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
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Popular around Saint-Charles-sur-Richelieu
Tips from the Community
Owned by McGill University since 1958, Gault Nature Reserve protects about 1,000 hectares of old-growth forest and wetlands on the rugged slopes of Mont Saint-Hilaire. Over 25 kilometres of trails wind through this protected landscape, leading to panoramic lookouts over Lake Hertel, the Richelieu Valley, and the surrounding Monteregian Hills, making it one of southern Québec’s premier hiking destinations.
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Burned Hill is one of four summits in Gault Nature Reserve, reached by a relatively challenging climb through mature hardwood forest. The rocky lookout offers fantastic sweeping views over Lake Hertel, Mont Saint-Hilaire, and the Richelieu Valley. It is the perfect spot for a break, whether you’re headed back down the trail or continuing the climb to Sugar Loaf.
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This lookout offers stunning panoramas in every direction and every season. The lush summer foliage gives way to stunning, colorful foliage in the fall.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Saint-Charles-sur-Richelieu?
There are over 25 hiking trails around Saint-Charles-sur-Richelieu, offering a variety of experiences through natural reserves and around significant hills. The komoot community has explored these diverse routes over 2000 times.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners in Saint-Charles-sur-Richelieu?
Yes, Saint-Charles-sur-Richelieu offers 12 easy hiking trails. A great option for beginners is the Sugarloaf loop from Université McGill - Réserve naturelle Gault, which is 3.6 miles (5.9 km) long and typically takes under 2 hours to complete.
What are the typical lengths and durations of hikes in this region?
Hiking trails around Saint-Charles-sur-Richelieu vary in length and duration. You can find shorter routes like the Sugarloaf loop at 3.6 miles (5.9 km), taking about 1 hour 54 minutes. Longer, moderate trails, such as the Burnt Hill – Lake Hertel loop from Mont-Saint-Hilaire, can extend to 8.9 miles (14.2 km) and take around 4 hours 40 minutes.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Saint-Charles-sur-Richelieu?
Yes, many trails in the region are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular View from the Dieppe Summit – Gault Nature Reserve loop and the Burnt Hill – Lake Hertel loop, both offering varied scenery.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on the trails?
The trails around Saint-Charles-sur-Richelieu are characterized by natural reserves, hills, and lakes. You'll encounter forested areas, and routes often lead to elevated points like Dieppe Summit and Burnt Hill, offering scenic views. Lake Hertel is another prominent natural feature you can explore.
Are there any hikes with good viewpoints?
Absolutely. The region is known for its elevated points offering scenic vistas. The View from the Dieppe Summit – Gault Nature Reserve loop is specifically highlighted for its views from Dieppe Summit. Another excellent option is the Gault Nature Reserve – View from the Dieppe Summit loop, which also provides rewarding panoramas.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Saint-Charles-sur-Richelieu?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in Saint-Charles-sur-Richelieu, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 80 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, the beauty of the Gault Nature Reserve, and the rewarding views from summits like Dieppe Summit.
Are there any specific nature reserves to explore?
Yes, the Gault Nature Reserve is a prominent feature of the region, offering several trails. You can explore routes like the Gault Nature Reserve – View from the Dieppe Summit loop, which takes you through this protected area.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Saint-Charles-sur-Richelieu?
While specific seasonal details are not provided, the diverse landscape of Saint-Charles-sur-Richelieu, with its forests and lakes, suggests that spring and autumn would offer particularly beautiful scenery with vibrant foliage or blooming flora. Summer is also popular for outdoor activities, and some trails may be suitable for winter hiking, though conditions should always be checked.
Are there any trails that pass by Lake Hertel?
Yes, Lake Hertel is a significant natural landmark in the area. The Lake Hertel – Burnt Hill loop from Mont-Saint-Hilaire is a moderate trail that specifically explores the area around Lake Hertel and Burnt Hill, offering varied scenery including lakeside views.
What is the difficulty level of most trails in the area?
The trails around Saint-Charles-sur-Richelieu offer a mix of difficulties. There are 12 easy trails perfect for a relaxed walk or beginners, and 14 moderate routes for those seeking a bit more challenge. There are no difficult trails listed in the immediate vicinity.
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