Discover Mount Royal
with les Amis de la montagne
Activities and workshops to discover and protect nature on Mount Royal
July 10, 2025
Les Amis de la montagne continue their efforts to preserve the biodiversity of Mount Royal by slowing the spread of invasive and harmful exotic species, some of which also pose a public health concern. New dates are available in July 2025 for people aged 14 and up who are interested in volunteering. Volunteers receive a brief training session and learn to understand the impact of these harmful plants better, how to identify them, and how to properly remove them.
Originally from Eurasia, dog-strangling vine can produce more than 2,000 seeds per square metre and has quickly spread through the mountain’s woodlands. Its potential to smother surrounding vegetation and disrupt monarch butterfly reproduction is significant. To control it, a manual removal technique using gardening knives is used. For this reason, the minimum age to participate in this activity is 14.
Saturday, July 19, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Tuesday, July 15 and 29, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Fun and Relaxation Activities
In addition, until September 28, 2025, Mount Royal Park is offering fun and relaxing activities for families and friends. Highlights include guided hikes, as well as the rental of small or large rowboats to enjoy a pleasant time on Beaver Lake and discover the park from a new perspective.
Outdoor games are also a big hit with both kids and adults. You can try out Mölkky, a Finnish throwing game that’s gaining popularity and offers a fun alternative to pétanque. For something more active, there’s Spikeball—a fast-paced game similar to volleyball, played two-on-two around a circular, horizontal net that acts like a trampoline. And of course, the classic bean bag toss remains a favourite: the goal is to throw small, pellet-filled bags onto a slanted board with a hole in it.
Mount Royal Park is also home to two Cafés des Amis—one located at the Mount Royal Chalet and the other at the Beaver Lake Pavilion—where you can enjoy refreshing slushies and soft-serve ice cream, among other treats. Additional frozen goodies are available from mobile vendors who make their way through the park. The Chalet also features a boutique, open seven days a week, offering a selection of local products and unique finds for all ages.
Rental Schedule:
June 21 to August 31, 2025: Daily from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.
September 1 to 28, 2025: Saturdays and Sundays only, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Tickets are available on-site at the tilted kiosk near Beaver Lake.
Themed Hikes by Les Amis de la montagne
Mount Royal’s North Slope
The north side of Mount Royal, with its natural and historical heritage, is often overlooked. Yet it holds many surprises along less-travelled trails where nature reclaims its space and history unfolds along the way. From Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery to the dense forest on the north slope, this hike offers a unique perspective on the mountain and the pleasure of hearing memorable stories.
Dates: July 12, September 6 at 9:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Level: Intermediate
Age: 12 and up
The Mountain’s Best-Kept Secrets
This is a fun, family-friendly hike for children on the east side of the mountain, in the Piedmont woodland. Learn about the local wildlife, plants, rock formations, and some mysteries that have yet to be uncovered—all while having fun!
Dates: July 19, September 6, 2025, at 2 p.m.
Level: Easy
Age: Suitable for all, from 5 years old
Summit Wood: The Mountain’s Hidden Gem
Exploring Summit Wood means discovering a hidden treasure of Mount Royal—a preserved natural area that sees few visitors. Experience a full immersion in nature while discovering the unique biodiversity and evolving landscape of the site. Between dense forest and unexpected viewpoints, this trail reveals a new side of the mountain, away from the busy main paths.
Dates: July 26 at 9:30 a.m., October 4, 2025 at 2 p.m.
Level: Intermediate
Age: 12 and up
The Summit of Mount Royal
The summit of Mount Royal is much more than just a lookout. Climbing to the top and taking in the breathtaking view of the city also means discovering the history and ecology of this iconic site, as well as its rich heritage. Along the way, you’ll explore wooded trails and encounter local wildlife, all while learning how this place has shaped Montreal’s history.
September 20, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. (Easy level, ages 12 and up)
Mission Mount Royal Philanthropic Hikes
During this free two-hour hike focused on the mission of Les Amis de la montagne, participants will explore Mount Royal’s iconic trails with a certified guide, learning how the organization works daily to protect, enhance, and educate about this cherished territory. Hikers will gain a better understanding of Mount Royal’s environmental issues and can actively support its preservation. Voluntary contributions are welcome.
Last Friday of each month at 10 a.m., until September 26, 2025.
Mount Royal Express for Newcomers and Tourists
No reservation required—newcomers and tourists can discover the mountain and its highlights in no time with this one-hour hike. During Mount Royal Express, guides will lead participants around the Cross and the Kondiaronk lookout, sharing fascinating insights about the mountain’s history, biodiversity, and major role in Montreal’s development. This accessible tour is perfect for a first introduction to Mount Royal.
Fridays and Saturdays, from June 27 to August 30, 2025 (in French): departure at 2:15 p.m.; in English: departure at 3:30 p.m., ages 5 and up. No reservation needed—tickets ($10) are sold on site at the Chalet du belvédère kiosk on the day of the hike.
For more information
The full summer program, activity rates, and dates are available on the Les Amis de la montagne website.
Feature image: Andrew Burlone
Other images: courtesy of Les amis de la montagne
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