The best walks and hikes in Bois De L'Équerre
4.1
(16)
297
hikers
35
hikes
Hiking trails in Bois De L'Équerre traverse one of Laval's last large urban forests, characterized by diverse ecosystems including sugar maple groves, fallow lands, and wooded swamps. The region features extensive wetlands, contributing to its rich biodiversity. The terrain is generally flat with minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for various activity levels. This natural area provides a significant retreat within an urban setting.
Best hiking trails in Bois De L'Équerre
- The most popular hiking route is Bois de l'Équerre loop from Marc-Aurèle-Fortin, a 1.8 miles (2.9 km) trail that takes 43 minutes to complete. This easy loop offers a quick immersion into the woodland environment.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Green Route, a moderate 9.2 miles (14.8 km) path. This longer route provides an extended exploration of the area's natural features.
- Local hikers also love the De la Fabrique Park loop from Marc-Aurèle-Fortin, a 2.7 miles (4.4 km) trail leading through parkland and natural areas, often completed in about 1 hour 8 minutes.
- Hiking in Bois De L'Équerre is defined by diverse ecosystems, extensive wetlands, and an urban forest setting. The network offers options for easy and moderate ability levels.
- The routes in Bois De L'Équerre are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.0 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 200 hikers have used komoot to explore Bois De L'Équerre's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 8, 2026
2.0
(1)
8
hikers
2.87km
00:43
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
3.12km
00:47
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
23
hikers
3.55km
00:55
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
4.12km
01:03
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
14.8km
03:46
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
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 Route Verte (Green Route) is North America’s largest cycling network, stretching thousands of kilometres across Québec and linking hundreds of communities with signed, mostly low-traffic routes for biking and walking. This section is popular with recreational riders and hikers, commuters, and long-distance touring cyclists, offering an easy, traffic-free way to explore Laval’s natural surroundings and city highlights, whether you’re on foot or on a bike.
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Bois de Naples is a beautiful urban woodland in the Vimont sector, part of a larger green corridor that encompasses several other woodlands and natural spaces. It's an inviting natural environment for cyclists and walkers, and, compared to other wooded areas in Laval, it lacks the development of formal trails and parks, making it an ideal spot to pause and take in the quiet scenery.
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Bois d’Édimbourg is a forest oasis, with wooded trails and natural habitats nestled within the city’s landscape. The forest features paths suitable for walking and nature observation, with diverse tree cover, marshy patches, and typical southern Québec woodland ecology. As part of a network of woodlands that help buffer urban heat islands and support regional biodiversity, it creates a beautiful, peaceful backdrop for anyone riding or cycling through this area.
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A great blue heron can be seen fishing there at the end of the day.
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Nice pathway & great waterfront view of the Thousand Islands River & Marius-Dufresne bridge which connects Ste-Rose to Rosemère
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Bois de l'Équerre?
Bois de l'Équerre offers nearly 40 hiking trails, catering to various preferences. The majority of these, 29 to be exact, are rated as easy, with 8 moderate options for those seeking a bit more challenge. There are no difficult trails, making it accessible for a wide range of hikers.
Are the trails in Bois de l'Équerre suitable for families and beginners?
Yes, the trails in Bois de l'Équerre are generally flat with minimal elevation changes, making them ideal for families and beginners. The network includes 1.65 km of trails adapted for people with reduced mobility, ensuring accessibility for many. An excellent easy option for a quick immersion is the Bois de l'Équerre loop from Marc-Aurèle-Fortin, which is 2.9 km long.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Bois de l'Équerre?
Bois de l'Équerre boasts diverse ecosystems, including sugar maple groves, fallow lands, and wooded swamps. You'll encounter extensive wetlands that contribute to its rich biodiversity, providing a constantly changing and visually appealing backdrop throughout the seasons. The area is a significant urban forest, offering a peaceful retreat into nature.
Are there any longer or more challenging routes for experienced hikers?
While most trails are easy, Bois de l'Équerre does offer moderate options for those looking for a longer outing. The Green Route is a moderate 14.8 km path that provides an extended exploration of the area's natural features, typically taking about 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete.
What is the best time of year to hike in Bois de l'Équerre?
Bois de l'Équerre is accessible year-round. Each season offers a unique experience, from lush greens in summer to vibrant autumn foliage. In winter, the managed trails are suitable for walking and snowshoeing, allowing for continued enjoyment of the forest's tranquility.
Can I bring my dog on the trails in Bois de l'Équerre?
The region research does not explicitly state the pet policy for Bois de l'Équerre. It is always recommended to check local signage or the official website of the managing authority (CANOPÉE) for the most current rules regarding pets on trails before your visit.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Bois de l'Équerre?
Yes, Bois de l'Équerre features several circular routes. A popular choice is the De la Fabrique Park loop from Sainte-Rose, an easy 3.5 km trail that allows you to experience the parkland and natural areas in a convenient loop.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
Bois de l'Équerre is known for its rich biodiversity. Hikers can often spot various bird species, including woodpeckers, and small mammals. The diverse forest ecosystems and extensive wetlands provide habitats for a variety of flora and fauna, making it an excellent spot for nature observation.
Is there parking available for hikers at Bois de l'Équerre?
While specific parking locations are not detailed in the provided information, Bois de l'Équerre is an urban forest, suggesting that parking facilities are likely available near common access points. It's advisable to check local maps or the official website for designated parking areas before your visit.
What do other hikers say about their experience in Bois de l'Équerre?
The trails in Bois de l'Équerre are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from more than 10 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained and clearly marked trails, the peaceful urban forest setting, and the diverse natural features that make it a great escape from city life.
Are there any nearby attractions or points of interest to explore after a hike?
Bois de l'Équerre itself is a significant attraction as one of Laval's last large urban forests, offering a sense of being surrounded by living habitat. For more information about the area, you can visit Tourisme Laval's page on Bois de l'Équerre.
What is an easy route that explores both parkland and natural areas?
For an easy route that combines parkland and natural areas, consider the De la Fabrique Park loop from Marc-Aurèle-Fortin. This 4.4 km trail is an excellent option for a relaxed walk, typically taking about 1 hour and 7 minutes to complete.
Most popular routes in Bois De L'Équerre
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