4.6
(58)
1,047
hikers
8
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Secteur Dufresne are set within the Parc régional de Val-David-Val-Morin, a protected forest in the Laurentides region. The terrain is characterized by its location within the Canadian Shield, featuring mountainous landscapes, rocky escarpments, and boulder fields. Hikers can explore boreal oak forests, numerous lakes such as Mount King Lake and Amigo Lake, and wetlands. The area offers a diverse network of trails suitable for various skill levels.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
5.0
(1)
13
hikers
6.96km
01:48
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
hikers
11.1km
02:54
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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17
hikers
7.42km
02:15
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
5.16km
01:33
150m
150m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
7.63km
02:23
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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This stretch of the Rivière du Nord flows alongside the P'tit Train du Nord, offering peaceful water views between the forests and lakes of the Laurentians. The river meanders through a broad valley, creating a calm backdrop for a walk or ride along the former railway corridor. Keep an eye out for ducks, herons, and reflections on the water, particularly during the quieter morning and evening hours.
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Built on the route of a former railway, the P'tit Train du Nord stretches through the Laurentians for more than 230 kilometres, linking villages, forests, lakes, and historic station buildings along the way. The gentle grades of the old rail corridor make for easy walking and cycling, while reminders of the route's railway past can still be found throughout the trail. This section beside Lake Raymond is one of the most scenic, with open lake views replacing the usual forested corridor.
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Just steps from the P'tit Train du Nord, this small sandy beach is a popular spot to cool off after a walk or bike ride. The supervised swimming area sits on the shores of Lake Raymond and is equipped with picnic tables, and nearby parking with washrooms, making it one of the most convenient places to take a break along this section of the trail. The open lake views and easy access to the water make it a natural place to linger on a warm day.
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Beautiful lake, extremely quiet. Many animals roam around.
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Secteur Dufresne offers a selection of 7 family-friendly hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures. These routes are designed to be enjoyable for various ages and skill levels, allowing families to explore the beautiful landscapes of the Laurentides region together.
Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for families with young children. For example, the Lake Raymond loop from Val-David is an easy 6.9 km trail that offers a pleasant experience. Another great option is the Lake Raymond loop from Val-Morin, which is 5.1 km and also considered easy.
The trails in Secteur Dufresne showcase a diverse landscape shaped by the Canadian Shield. You'll encounter mountainous terrain, rocky escarpments, and beautiful boreal oak forests, especially on higher elevations. The area also features tranquil lakes like Lake Raymond and Amigo Lake, contributing to a rich ecosystem.
Absolutely! Many trails lead to magnificent viewpoints. For instance, the moderate Lake Raymond – View of Mont King loop from Val-Morin offers stunning vistas, including the famous viewpoint from Mount King. You can also find scenic spots overlooking Amigo Lake on routes like the Lake Raymond – View of Lac Amigo loop from Val-Morin.
Yes, Secteur Dufresne is generally dog-friendly. Many trails within the Parc régional de Val-David-Val-Morin allow dogs, but it's always recommended to keep them on a leash and ensure you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for everyone.
Yes, several family-friendly routes in Secteur Dufresne are circular, making for convenient and enjoyable hikes. Examples include the Lake Raymond loop from Val-David and the Lake Raymond loop from Val-Morin, both offering a complete loop experience.
Secteur Dufresne is beautiful year-round, but for family hiking, late spring to early autumn (May to October) generally offers the most comfortable weather and accessible trails. The fall foliage is particularly stunning. Winter also offers unique snowshoeing opportunities, but some trails might be more challenging for younger children.
The Secteur Dufresne is conveniently accessed from Chalet Anne-Piché, which is just a short walk from Val-David village. This area typically provides parking facilities for visitors accessing the park's extensive trail network.
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Secteur Dufresne, with an average score of 4.7 stars based on 55 ratings. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the stunning lake views, and the overall peaceful atmosphere, making it a favorite for family outings.
For families with older children looking for a bit more of a challenge, the moderate View of Lake Raymond – Val-David Train Station loop from Sainte-Marguerite-Station is a longer option at 18.5 km. This route offers varied terrain and extended exploration opportunities while still being manageable for active families.
Yes, being close to Val-David village, you'll find amenities such as cafes and restaurants within easy reach of the main access point at Chalet Anne-Piché. This makes it convenient to grab a snack or a meal before or after your family hike.


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