Parc régional de la Rivière-du-Nord

Parc régional de la Rivière-du-Nord is a stunning 200-hectare natural preserve that offers families free access to gorgeous hiking trails, wildlife spotting, and hands-on nature education. Kids will love exploring the easy riverside paths, crossing scenic bridges, and discovering local wildlife while parents appreciate the well-maintained trails and beautiful views of the North River valley.

• ✓Multiple suspension bridges and scenic overlooks perfect for family photos
• ✓Historic Wilson Mill ruins that kids love to explore
• ✓Easy riverside trails suitable for young hikers and nature strollers
• ✓Excellent bird watching opportunities with interpretive signs
• ✓Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails in winter months

1. 1.Download a trail map before you go as cell service can be spotty in some areas of the park. The visitor center has free maps and staff who speak English, though signage is primarily in French.
2. 2.Visit on weekday mornings for quieter trails and better wildlife viewing opportunities. The park gets busier on weekends, especially during fall foliage season.
3. 3.Bring bug spray in summer months and layers year-round as temperatures can vary significantly along the shaded river trails.
4. 4.The historic Wilson Mill ruins are a highlight for kids who love exploring. It's about a 20-minute walk from the main parking area on an easy trail.
5. 5.Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated areas along the river. There are no food vendors inside the park.

Early fall (September to October) offers spectacular foliage and comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking with kids. Weekday mornings between 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM provide the calmest experience with fewer crowds and active wildlife. Spring is also lovely for seeing wildflowers and rushing water.

Admission is completely free. Parking is available at multiple lots near the visitor center. There are no restaurants or snack bars on-site, so bring your own food and plenty of water. The visitor center has clean restrooms and educational displays.

The park is open year-round with different activities each season. Winter brings cross-country skiing and snowshoeing (equipment rental available nearby). Spring features rushing waterfalls and migrating birds. Summer offers shaded forest trails, and fall showcases spectacular foliage. The visitor center maintains consistent hours daily but may have reduced services in winter.

Head to Saint-Jérôme (5 minutes away) for family dining options including La Belle et La Boeuf for burgers and poutine, or Benny & Co. for kid-friendly rotisserie chicken meals. Both have English menus available.