we set out to hike parc du mont royal, one of montreal's most iconic green spaces and a beloved escape from the city. designed in the 1870s by landscape architect frederick law olmsted, who also designed new york's central park, the park covers a large portion of mount royal and offers walking trails, viewpoints, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature right in the heart of montreal. thinking it would be a straightforward hour and five minute trek, we quickly learned that our timeline was a little optimistic. naturally, the hike turned into a much longer adventure with plenty of pit stops along the way. before tackling the climb, we wandered through the area, stopping at mngo, decathlon, a k-beauty store, and even a museum before finally making our way up the mountain. by the time we started the hike, we had already turned it into a full day of exploring. the trail itself was well maintained, with a mix of shaded pathways and plenty of stairs to keep things interesting. the overcast sky made the climb much more manageable, although it was still quite the workout. between the greenery, the incline, and the steady stream of steps, there were definitely moments when the beads of sweat and the sunscreen threatening to run into my eye, reminded me that this was more than just a casual stroll. the grounds were clean and well cared for, with shaded sections that offered welcome breaks along the way. after the climb, we were rewarded with a panoramic view of montreal from the belvédère lookout, where the city skyline stretches out below. it's one of those views that makes you forget about tired legs for a moment. on the way down, we stumbled across the towering cross, one of mont royal's most recognizable landmarks, and decided to take a quieter, less travelled path. the change of scenery was worth it, and we even spotted a little chipmunk along the way, a perfect reminder that we were surrounded by nature despite being right in the middle of the city. with fresh air, lush greenery, and just enough challenge to feel accomplished, the hike up parc du mont royal was a memorable part of our montreal adventure. just remember to bring water, sunscreen, and be prepared for a few more steps than you might expect. read more

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Montreal's Central Park The View I've visited twice. Once at night for the city light view from the Chalet terrace about a decade ago. This time (2026) for the day views and visits to the Cross and to the Lake. When I came about 10 years ago at night time, the crowd was much lighter and chill. Also, I saw an owl sitting on the tree along the walking path! Today's visit on a late summer holiday weekday, it was super crowded with locals, cyclists going up the Mont, joggers and tourists. Parking was tight as were trails to 3 major sites on Mont Royal. The Cross was rather disappointing as the trail was a gravelly loop apx 1.6km without a reward vista. Also the hiking trails of the main road were riddled with poison ivy :/. The Chalet was open (unlike my earlier night visit)! Inside were a coffee shop, a gift shop, bathrooms and a big room with a lodge style ceiling. The viewing terrace was super packed with people though everyone was accommodating with photo opportunities. The view was nice with the buildings and bridges. Drastically different than the sparkling lights at night! Tried to go to the Lake but couldn't get a paid parking spot. And after 3 loops, I passed after hearing it's rather dirty with some ducks. Perhaps bc it was a holiday weekend, this Labor Day, Monday was crowded and the cyclists moved faster than cars. I would NOT repeat the day visit unless it's for exercises. The Cross IMO isn't worth it and the Lake parking is too much of a bother. The night views of Montreal from the Chalet terrace on a clear night beats everything I've experienced today. read more

Parc du Mont-Royal - Parks Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

My family and I visited while on a road trip to Quebec City last year. We were there in the evening (around 6-7:30pm). We parked at a couple of Mont Royal Park's parking lots. The park had a lot of parking lots around. You will have to pay for parking (at least at the main one, $4.25/hour). The park is pretty large. Pathways were well kept and were pretty wide. Parts were either gravel or paved. It was nice that you can see the city at different spots like the area by the Chalet and the spot where you can see the Olympic Stadium. read more

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This large iconic park in Montreal Canada was designed by Frederic Law Olmsted in 1876, the same designer of Central Park. It offers stunning views of Montréal and the St. Lawrence River from the lookouts. The park includes the large Mount Royal Cross, the Mount Royal Chalet and the George Etienne Cartier Monument. This 692 acre park also offers hiking and picnicking. The large facility has bathrooms, snack bar and gift shop. read more

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Today is Canada Day. Visiting here we thought we'd have a picnic at the park. It was a great choice! There are lots of picnic tables and green grass for blankets. We first stopped at the Marche Jean-Talon, a huge farmer's market were we bought meat, cheese, bread and fruit. The views of Montreal from the peak of the park are beautiful! read more

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This is hands-down, one of the BEST city parks I've been to. In terms of the sheer scope of activities and expansive trails in the middle of a city, Mount Royal Park is a true marvel. The ascent to the top can be taxing if you take the pathway that includes the stairs. I would recommend taking one of the trails up to pace yourself and enjoy the journey to the scenic views. The park was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the legendary Landscape Architect who also designed New York's Central Park, and the grounds for Stanford...the impressive list goes on. You really get the impression that this park was thoughtfully designed and planned to harmonize with the native species of plants. There are two Belvederes where you can view the city. We ventured up to Kondiaronk Belvedere and were treated to sweeping views of the city. If you are looking for a postcard-perfect view of Montreal, this is it! Mount Royal Park is a must-do and was definitely one of the highlights of our Canadian trip. Don't miss this park, it's immersive qualities are outstanding and your are rewarded with incredible views if you persevere to the top! read more

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Beautiful park! So many walking trails and fun activities and beautiful lookouts!!!! We highly recommend the chateau and its lookout. Also lots of cute cafes in the park. This is a must stop for Montreal! read more

Warning: Be Prepared for Pain for Up to 5 Days Afterwards The park was lovely with lovely rolling hills and picnic areas, and I could see the fish in the ponds at the edges. There were paved paths up the hill to the top of the park. It was a lot of hilly inclines but there were a few benches along the way. At the top at the chalet, there is a nice view of Montreal over the trees. There is a large building up the stairs where you can go down the stairs to the bathrooms. We took the stairs all the way down to McGill University and down more hills to our hotel farther in the city. Chatgpt said there is between 339 to 525 steps depending on how you come out. I was totally amazed as you turn the corner, how many other flights of steps there were. There is no way, I would have made it up the stairs. The wooden stairs were of the same color, no color stripe marking the edges, so for someone with progressive glasses, it made it hard to see where each step ended to go to the next one. I looked more to the edges to see the outline to know. I would have really have hated taking the stairs in the dusk when it was darker or overcast. When we sightsee, I can walk 20,000 - 25,000 steps a day; however with that number of stairs then all the hills from McGill University down to our hotel, my legs felt it that night. The next day, my calves were badly cramping and knotted up for several days afterwards, so I am glad we visited at the end of our trip, not at the beginning. It took 5 days before I could walk without pain. If you decide to go, make sure you do it at the end of your trip or your calves and legs are really stretched out and strong. read more

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We came up here to explore and it is a really pretty park. Lots of walking trails, a pond, a waterfall, a cafe and some monuments. Looks good as you walk up to it, but as you walk around, it is clear that it is not well cared for and that people are disgusting. So much trash in the pond, trash all around the lawns and trails. It was really sad, we saw some homeless issues in town but to see the way this park has been disrespected was really sad. The pond needs a thorough cleaning and it would be nice if people didn't leave their crap from parties all over. Other than that, it was a really pretty park and was nice to explore. read more

Parc du Mont-Royal - Ducks with pollution - Parks Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

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HUGE park! So many things to do depending on your interest. Lots of beautiful walking trails and activities for both warm and cold months. Don't skip this park while visiting Montreal. read more

Parc du Mont-Royal - Lookout point in Parc Mount Royal - Parks Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

The expansive green space in the center of the city is home to Mount Royal, the mountain (really just a large hill) from which Montreal gets its name. It is the highest point in the city. Towering over central Montréal, Parc du Mont-Royal (Mount Royal Park) is frequented by joggers, picnickers, dog walkers, and bicyclists throughout the year, and it's one of Montréal's largest green spaces During the warmer months, (we went there on US Memorial weekend, May 2024)- you can rent rowboats on the park's Lac aux Castors (Beaver Lake), but we preferred the Chalet du Mont-Royal (also called View Point) - It offers breathtaking park and city views any time of year. You can also take a stroll through one of the park's three cemeteries (one English, one Jewish, and one French). Mount Royal also has a lake (Lac aux Castors, or Beaver Lake) where you can rent a paddle boat, admire baby ducklings, or iced skate, depending on the season There are several eateries on-site as well as a gift shop and bathrooms. The park is open daily from 6 a.m. to midnight; the Mount Royal Park Welcome Centre is open from 8 AM to 8 PM daily. Admission to the park is free. read more

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I was really excited to check out this park based on the history and the designers. I was not disappointed. I went here with a bag of bagels and some assorted meats and had a picnic with my family. You definitely have to be careful of all the bikers taking advantage of the Steep inclines offered by this park. Didn't get a chance to explore too much because it started to pour rain. But had an encounter with a random raccoon while looking out on the city. And must if you go to visit the city and I will be back. read more

It's a sprawling park on top of the hill, overlooking the city, old port, financial district, etc. Very beautiful. It's both accessible by car or you can take the stairs from south side and go to the peak/lookout. There's a visitors building that you can use to rest a bit inside. It's definitely a must-visit in Montréal. read more

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Amazing must see park with wonderful views of the city. We went up here on a tour with Grey Line to make it easier. Would love to see more of this area next time in Montreal read more

Parc du Mont-Royal - Me and my wife on top of Mt. Royal - Parks Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

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Amazing park! A real highlight of our trip to Montreal. It's impeccably kept, lush and green, a beautiful pond/lake, and on a nice day a perfect spot for a picnic. I hear that in the winter they allow ice skating on the pond as well! read more

I came to Montreal for a work conference and I fell in love with the city. For me, the city brings a plethora of activities and its bustling streets are spectacle of their own with many sites to visit. The French influence on everything is very real and welcoming, I enjoyed it all. Besides attending the conference, I found time to explore, and I highly recommend it by walking. One of the attractions was the Mount Royal Chalet, which offers amazing views of the city and beyond. Sure you can Uber to the top, but I recommend expanding the extra energy and walk the trail/stairs to the top of the city. The trail is a mix of cobble stone, packed gravel, concrete stairs and wood stairs. I was worried that my business casual attire would get in the way of hiking this trail, well it didn't. No hiking or workout clothing or shoes required, just go! The climb is roughly 600 feet of elevation gain through a forest and the distance can be lengthened by avoiding the stairs and zig-zagging up the switchbacks. Either way, you will arrive at the top of Montreal and the views are well worth it. The chalet at the top is not the attraction, the views are, but it does offer restrooms if you need them. I highly recommend this when visiting, especially for sunsets with city backdrops and nearby landscapes. read more

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We had glorious plans to go dog sledding but alas, there was no snow during Christmas so we decided to postpone and do a Plan B. In all our trips to Montreal, we've never been to the park nor the mountain/peak. So we were told that this "hike" wasn't much of a hike and more of a walk up to the peak with "some" stairs at the end, we decided, sure, why not? We luckily found some street parking at the "front" of the park. Yay for parking powers! Or at least what I think are powers. I also hear that there's some parking near the cemetery and closer to the peak if you're not wanting to saunter up the hill. We walked through the first little bit of park to the statue. Apparently when it's cold enough, there's a skating rink that is made. Past the stairs behind the statue starts the hike. Today was a bit overcast and shortcuts a little mud laden as it was a bit rainy/dewy in the days past. After looking at our path, we decided it wasn't as muddy past this point and more gravel so we pressed on. They're basically switch backs all the way up the mountain. Sure if you want to skip the long treks back and forth, you can cut up straight through "shortcuts" but of course these were muddy. There was some ice on the path which our niece was quite happy to walk on. I tried to walk on them and almost fell on my butt. There were plenty of walkers, runners, and bikers of all age size and of course, there were furry friends. It was nice that there were some benches along the way especially when it got higher. I would imagine you could just bring some snacks, take a nice break at a bench and just look out at the view. Once you get to the stairs, that's the tough part. If you're not use to stairs or that many in one go, then take your time. There's larger platforms on different parts of the staircase to take a break and let people pass. Please let people pass. It's also a good way to catch your breath and take in the view. You get to the top and you're met with the Chalet as well as the "belvedere," aka a viewpoint of the whole city. If it's winter, it's cold. So perhaps after sweating up the staircase, a great idea is to stop by the chalet and just cool down, take a restroom break, collect yourself before partaking in the view outside. The view point was really packed the day we went. So make sure you know where your belongings are because there are folks who will pick pocket. We actually encountered a group of 5-7 guys who started to follow us as we left the view point towards the stairs. When we stopped to let them pass, one person bent down to tie his shoes and the others abruptly stopped. They had no intention of going down at all. As soon as we quickly passed them, they turned back. They looked like normal folks but they seemed a bit sketch. So keep your personal belongings in sight and be aware of your surroundings! Apart from that, we didn't explore much of the park. We were pretty pooped from the walk. The descent of course was much easier and we just jaunted back down. It was a nice way to get some fresh air and get the ticker going. Definitely a place to stop by if you're wanting some exercise or just a view of the city from above. read more

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Such a gorgeous gem in the city - I love this place so much. FYI, there are two was to get up here. The first is taking a bunch of steps (yes it can get super exhausting). However, the hike up has a gorgeous view. You can alternatively take a bus up and avoid the hike. The weather is absolutely stunning as well and you get the most gorgeous view of the city. Best part?!?! - It's complete free! IG: QueenOfAdventureNYC read more

Finally had a chance to visit Montreal's very own Central ; Parc du Mont-Royal (Mount Royal Park). This 761-foot hill from which Montréal got its name is the highest point in the city. This park is one of Montreal's largest greenspaces and is a great place for admiring a wide variety of flora and fauna. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the same person behind New York's Central Park, Parc du Mont-Royal (Mount Royal Park) boasts miles of trails and superb views of the city. Here, you can stroll down the tree-lined paths and recharge with a picnic on the grass by Beaver Lake. You can also enjoy outdoor activities year-round, such as canoeing in the summer and skiing in the wintertime. There's a mild climb to reach the viewing area at the top. Alternatively, you can hop on a public bus to reach the peak (trip advisor). read more

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Parc du Mont-Royal features the tallest peak in the city, above which no building height can exceed. Wherever you find yourself in Montreal you can pretty much turn your head and orient yourself based on the peak. So climbing to the peak? It seemed to be a requirement. Montreal is hot and humid in the summer but by the final day of my visit I finally felt acclimatized enough to consider scaling the peak. In truth? I believe I scale higher heights on the regular, in my neighborhood at home. While it may be the highest peak in Montreal it proved to be not much of a challenge. But pretty and clean and serene? You bet. The path I took to the peak (there are several) was clearly marked and getting to the lookout spot was a pleasant hike with most of it being on a wide, well maintained dirt road. A lovely city view awaits at the top along with seating, restrooms, and a gift shop. Owing to where I was going next, I saw a lot more of the park as I was routed to the back side of the mountain. It's in the cemetery there that you can find Leonard Cohen's final resting place and, as you descend further, some of the city's most swoon-worthy homes. If all you want to do is experience the view, parking lots enable you to get close to the peak without much of a hike. That said, if you have it in you, this exploration-worthy park is ideally experienced 100% on foot. read more

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Mount royal park is huge and we only saw a small part of it but it was beautiful with wide open spaces, trails and a lake. From mount royal chalet which provides a cafe and restrooms you will get a panoramic view of Montreal and a great spot to see the Leonard Cohen mural but beware it is very busy with everyone trying to get that shot. Afterwards you can head down lots and lots of steps to street level and visit St Catherine street or peel street and do some shopping and have a very enjoyable day out! read more

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After a hearty Brunch not far away, we visited on a Sunday afternoon around 3. Nice day so many were out. Parking is metered. We walked around and explored a bit and found the path to the Lookout point. Saw the Lake and enjoyed the trees that were just starting their fall colors transformation. About a 10 minute walk to the top from the parking area (longer depending on where you start). Some construction happening right now (October, 23) although nothing major. At the top is a stunning view of Downtown Montreal and well worth the hike. Visit the Chalet du Mont-Royal for the mural paintings, Cafe and a break. A must visit when in Montreal! read more

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I hike here every week. Now the weather is improving so I am excited to go even more and enjoy the beautiful sun at the top. The view is great. read more

Beautiful park to enjoy as a local and tourist. Winter tubing review -gentle sloped hill for ages 4yrs and up -walk your own tube up hill, warning it's a major glut workout! - 4 lanes carved out but three open on our visit - very affordable pricing $6.50(4-11yrs), $10.50(12yrs +) -walk from parking lot p116 only 5 mins Parking - crazy on wknd! - $14 all day, in /out privileges if you can get a new spot - look out area fills up but people don't linger long after scenic photos Lodge by Lac Aux Castors - large seating area - food moderate priced but decent, hot dog $5.50, smoked salmon bagel $9 - washrooms available lots of stalls, clean - rental for skates, cross country skis here Great trails around the hilly park to enjoy the outdoors! Snow shoe, skate, cross country ski, bike, jog, tubing. Police can be seen on horseback, patrolling the area and have a small stable on route to p115. Fact: Inaugurated in 1876, Mount Royal Park was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted of Central Park fame. It is a magnificent urban green space featuring 200 hectares of astonishing biodiversity and natural beauty Downside personally - not enough parking - not enough washrooms throughout park, so plan ahead for little ones and weak bladders read more

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This spot was a legitimate spot for running. I come from San Francisco, where there are a bounty of parks and trails. I loved that this was so easily accessible. The view at the top is worth the climb! read more

An absolutely beautiful park! If you want views, this park is the spot! We visited in October and the leaves were so beautiful. An excellent day spent with family here. read more

Parc du Mont-Royal - Fall vibes - Parks Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

Definitely a must see if you are visiting Montreal. We went on a weekday around 11am and it was already crowded. There's no costs to visit other than parking. The walk up to the top of the look out point is only about 10 mins. The view of the city is amazing from the top! read more

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Walk up the Mont Royal and you will get the best views of the city...or...you can drive most of the way and park close to the summit, regardless, it is a beautiful way to see Montreal. I have done it many way, driving up with friends; taking the steps and the paved trails; and going up through the wild vegetation....all fun.... Mount Royal is actually a combination of three hills, shaped thousands of years ago by ice age glaciers, but, its geology goes back over 100 million years ago steeped in a history of an ancient volcanic complex. Indigenous people have a long history on Mount Royal; living, hunting and farming their staple foods of corn, squash and beans were aptly named the Three Sisters. In 1535, Jacques Cartier sailed up the St. Lawrence River and gave the mountain it's name of "Mont Royal". In 1643, Paul de Chomedey, Sieur de Maisonneuve, carried a wooden cross up to Mont Royal after his prayers were answered to prevent flooding. In 1874, the landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmsted, designed Mount Royal Park as we know it today. read more

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If you're into doing massive parkour moves like me you're going to just love this place. Sweet jumps everywhere. 400 steps? More like 10. PARKOUR! PARKOUUUURRRRRR! On the left. read more

An unequivocally heralded park for good reason. Mont Royal offers an enjoyable setting to look out over the city of Montreal before of after getting dinner at the legendary Schwartz's Deli. read more

Parc du Mont-Royal is a must visit when touring Montreal. The hike too the lookout is strenuous but well worth attending to. Hiking gear is recommended but not mandatory. You will experience great scenery at the top of the park. Make sure to allow yourself time when hiking. read more

five stars and 47 flights , of stairs. I mean, who keeps doing this? I thought montreal was going to be a gorge fest, lo and behold , walking, lots and lots of walking. and stairs! and bees, let's not forget the bees, but also, that veux! Train thru McGill (welcome back energy!) up the hill and then up up up up! Had a reward treat from the chaotic snack bar and then down the road to catch the bus, hold on tight! Off to the next yelpventure read more

You can park on the street below and then have a pleasant day hiking the long meandering path all the way to the top of Mt Royal OR you can try and find parking close to the top (near the cross - we found parking .8 one day by the cross after hiking the entire park another day). There is a restroom with a gift shop and information center also at the top and you must pay for parking by app. We had this downloaded already due to other sites in the city. The gift shop had baseball hats ($20), t-shirts, etc... and the park is worth going to for the view if you have the time! Read about the history before you go, we did, takes about :15-:30 depending on how much you want to get into it. It enhances our appreciation of the visit. read more

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If you want a stunning view of Montreal or part of Montreal, the place to be is up on top of Parc du Mont-Royal. The view is stunning here. The walk is a good exercise and can be very tiring. It took us about 20 mins to talk up and half the time to walk down. There is a staircase up to Parc du Mont-Royal. Once you are up there you will find the lookout point of where you can capture the beauty of Montreal downtown. There is also a cafe up on the mountain where you can enjoy a nice latte. The place is quite busy with lots of tourists. Especially on a nice beautiful day. read more

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We visited Mount Royal Park last month but only had enough time to do the lookout. And that was a shame because a lot of the view was blocked with trees but it was still beautiful! read more

Parc du Mont-Royal - Parks Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

I made it to the top and back down, and my Apple Watch congratulated me on my first hiking workout. Whether or not it is 'really' hiking is for you to judge. The only other time I've done anything remotely similar was up the same mountain when I was half the age I am now. And you know something? I liked it! Before we know it, I, too, will have "hiking" somewhere in an online dating profile, just like the other at least 25% of people who have it too. But I digress, Mount Royal was an excellent way to spend a couple hours, especially on a day with heavenly weather! The climb to the top was pretty approachable, and could be taken by stairs, light inclines of packed gravel, or a combination of both. There is also a paved path with a bus line if you want the view without the workout. Though, if you ask me, the view is worth the hike and is even better when you feel you've earned it. Furthermore, there is more than one way up the mountain. There are many paths to explore, so this can be treated like a bona fide park rather than exclusively a hike, and some open spaces let you do just that. Also welcome is some water fountains and at least one washroom present. Finally, I loved that all the paths I took were very clean and felt safe. Now to explore other hikes nearer to me! I already know where to go. Stay tuned! read more

This park atop a hill was quite the walk from the parking lot, but the trail was quite enjoyable, and it never felt unsafe because of the crowd. We saw fellow tourists but also locals who were exercising. Frankly, the views at the top weren't jaw-dropping but it was one of the better sights we've seen in Montreal, so I'll give it that. It's also just a nice spot to relax and take in Montreal when the weather permits. There were restrooms, a small gift shop, and a small ice cream cart in the vicinity when I went. My girl friends and I got matching Parc du Mont t-shirts. I didn't think I would, but I actually wear it quite often. read more

You have to work for that view, ya'll! I had an Uber drop us off at Kondiaronk Belvedere. I did not know if there'd be a way up without walking up stairs - there is not! I went with my parents, so we had to see if my step-dad could make it lolol (update- he did!). We went slower because of my step-dad, but if we hadn't stopped a few times for him, it's probably 5-10 minutes straight of just going up stairs. If you are fairly in shape, it's not too bad at all. It is totally worth it getting the view! Pro tip, go to the restroom before you go. I needed to pee and there was only 1 open porta potty boo!!! And waiting for that porta potty, there were a BUNCH OF MOSQUITOS and I got bit like a mofo on a hot summer night lol! I seriously got 5-10 bug bites! So other pro tip, apply mosquito repellent! Beautiful views though, worth it!! read more

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If you are here on a clear sunny day then you could fully enjoy the beauty of the mountain overlooking the downtown montreal. It has a lake and a platform for overlooking. Parking is paid one is name T17. A great place for picnic on the grass and a go-to every spring-fall, truly a third space read more

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Get ready to work those legs and glutes! Well, I'm pretty sure you can drive up to the top, but I took the stairs all the way up. The view was worth it. I'm sure each season awards completely different views, but in the winter it was stunning. We stopped at the lookout and went back down, but I know this park is tremendous (500 acres). If it hadn't been so cold we'd have explored more. read more

Parc du Mont-Royal - Parks Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

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