The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Laval
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2,770
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Family friendly hiking trails around Laval, Quebec, are characterized by the region's unique island geography, situated between the Mille Îles River and the Prairies River. The terrain features a blend of aquatic and terrestrial environments, including extensive riverfronts, wetlands, and numerous woodlands. Laval's topography is generally gentle, making it suitable for a wide range of hiking abilities.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Laval
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Green Route, a 9.2 miles (14.8 km) trail that takes 3 hours 45 minutes to complete. This moderate route connects various natural areas, offering diverse scenery.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is De la Fabrique Park loop from Marc-Aurèle-Fortin, an easy 2.7 miles (4.4 km) path. This route provides a pleasant walk through urban parkland.
- Local hikers also love the Avenue des Bois Gravel Path loop from Deux-Montagnes, a 4.7 miles (7.5 km) trail leading through green spaces on a gravel path, often completed in about 1 hour 55 minutes.
- Hiking around Laval is defined by riverfront paths, diverse wetlands, and urban woodlands, offering options for various ability levels from easy strolls to moderate excursions.
- The routes in Laval are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 90 reviews. More than 2,400 hikers have used komoot to explore Laval's varied terrain.
Last updated: November 2, 2026
5.0
(1)
23
hikers
3.55km
00:55
10m
10m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
8
hikers
3.14km
00:49
20m
20m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
7
hikers
3.65km
00:55
10m
10m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
1
hikers
14.8km
03:46
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
6
hikers
15.7km
04:02
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
Parc Saint-Édouard serves as a community and recreation hub. Its open year-round, with a modern four-season playground module, a baseball field, a basketball court, and three lit acrylic tennis courts. In winter, it's still a popular recreation spot with an outdoor winter skating rink. There is a service chalet, free parking, washrooms, and a “BoxUp” locker system that offers free sports equipment loans to visitors.
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Parc Stéphanie is a quaint neighborhood park that spans almost one hectare. It's a clean and well-maintained greenspace with a children's playground with swings and slides, dedicated cycling lanes, and open grassy field.
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Bois de la Source has a network of trails meandering the dense woodland area managed by the CANOPÉE network. This deciduous urban forest acts as an exceptional “island of freshness,” offering roughly 5.3 kilometres of trails that are perfect for year-round activities like walking, birdwatching, and winter snowshoeing.
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Here the Rouge trail leads into a covered forest area that almost makes you forget how close you are to the water. There are a couple connectors to the Bleu trail west of here that loop back out of the forest.
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Here you get a nice view of where Rivière des Praries meets the lake and Laval Sur-Le-Lac to the north in the distance. There is a rocky beach on the shoreline where you can take a break and enjoy the water.
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Launch straight into the Rivière des Mille Îles from the park's main rental centre and explore a maze of islands, marshes, and quiet waterways at your own pace. Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, rowboats, and rabaskas are available to rent for three-hour blocks or a full day on a first-come, first-served basis. Your rental also helps support the conservation of the river's unique ecosystems and wildlife, making it a great way to experience the park from the water.
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Set beside the Rivière des Mille Îles in the historic Sainte-Rose neighbourhood, Berge des Baigneurs is one of Laval’s main riverside parks. The landscaped shoreline has open views across the river, places to sit, and a seasonal dock that brings you closer to the water. It’s a natural stopping point along the route, with the streets, church, and older buildings of Vieux-Sainte-Rose just behind the riverbank. The park is free to visit.
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The lake at Laval’s Nature Centre is a central feature of the park, surrounded by walking paths, open green space, and seasonal gardens, creating a peaceful setting close to the city. Calm water, small bridges, and nearby trees make it a popular place to pause, with reflections and changing seasonal colours adding to the scenery throughout the year. In warmer months, the lake becomes a busy destination for picturesque walks and lakeside picnics.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there in Laval?
Laval offers a selection of 10 family-friendly hiking trails, with 6 being easy and 4 moderate, ensuring options for various ages and skill levels.
Are there any trails suitable for families with strollers or very young children?
Yes, several parks in Laval offer accessible paths. For example, Bois de l'Équerre has a 1.3-kilometer section adapted for people with limited mobility, which is great for strollers. The De la Fabrique Park loop from Marc-Aurèle-Fortin is also an easy, flat option.
Can I bring my dog on these family-friendly trails?
Many trails in Laval are dog-friendly, provided your dog is kept on a leash. Bois de l'Équerre explicitly welcomes dogs on a leash. Always check specific park regulations before you go, as rules can vary.
What kind of natural features can we expect to see on family hikes in Laval?
Laval's unique island geography means you'll encounter diverse environments. Expect scenic riverfronts, rich wetlands, and extensive woodlands. Many areas are home to various bird species, small mammals, and diverse flora. Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles, for instance, is a sanctuary for birds, turtles, and fish.
Are there any circular routes perfect for a family outing?
Yes, there are several pleasant circular routes. The De la Fabrique Park loop from Marc-Aurèle-Fortin is an easy 4.4 km option. Another is the Avenue des Bois Gravel Path loop from Deux-Montagnes, which is a bit longer but still easy.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions we can visit near the trails?
Beyond the trails, Laval offers several points of interest. You can explore the Oka National Park, or visit the Mount Royal Park in nearby Montreal. For a unique experience, the Rivière des Prairies Hydroelectric Dam is also an interesting sight.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Laval?
Each season offers a different appeal. Spring brings fresh greenery, while summer is ideal for enjoying the full lushness of the trails. Autumn is particularly spectacular for fall foliage. To avoid muddy conditions and insects, late spring and early autumn are often recommended.
Are there any trails with waterfalls or scenic river views?
Yes, Parc des Prairies features a calming landscape with a lake, stream, and waterfalls, making it a lovely spot for scenic views. Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles also offers breathtaking river views along its trails.
How accessible are these family-friendly trails by public transport?
Many of Laval's trails and parks are easily accessible by public transportation. Major trailheads often have good connections, making it convenient for families without a car to enjoy the outdoors.
Do I need to pay any fees or get permits to access these family-friendly hiking areas?
Many of Laval's natural areas and trails are free to access. However, some larger parks, like Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles, may have entrance fees or require permits for certain activities. It's always best to check the specific park's website before your visit.
Where can we find picnic spots along the family-friendly trails?
Many parks in Laval are designed with family comfort in mind and offer designated picnic areas. Centre de la Nature de Laval, for example, is an expansive urban park with various amenities, including picnic spots. Parc des Prairies is also a popular choice for family outings with places to relax.
What do other hikers say about family-friendly trails in Laval?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful natural environments, and the suitability of the trails for all ages, highlighting the ease of access and scenic beauty.
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