Michel-Chartrand Park

Michel-Chartrand Park is a sprawling 185-hectare natural oasis just across the St. Lawrence River from Montreal, offering families an impressive mix of outdoor adventures. With well-maintained playgrounds, a popular summer splash pad, scenic walking trails through forests and meadows, and ample picnic areas, this beloved Longueuil destination provides a full day of nature exploration without costing a penny.

• ✓Free splash pad that operates during summer months, perfect for cooling off on hot days
• ✓Multiple modern playgrounds designed for different age groups
• ✓Over 10 km of walking and cycling trails through diverse natural landscapes
• ✓Beautiful picnic areas with tables and grills near play zones
• ✓Wildlife spotting opportunities including birds, turtles, and small mammals

1. 1.Pack a French-English translation app or basic French phrases, as Longueuil is predominantly French-speaking and park signage may be primarily in French.
2. 2.Arrive before 10 AM on summer weekends to snag the best picnic tables near the splash pad, which gets very busy by midday.
3. 3.Bring bug spray during late spring and early summer, as the wooded trails and proximity to water can mean more mosquitoes.
4. 4.The park has multiple entrances, so enter via Rue Adoncour for easiest access to the main playground and splash pad area.
5. 5.Download an offline map of the trail system, as cell service can be spotty in the deeper forested areas of the park.

Visit on weekday mornings from June through September for the best weather and smaller crowds. The splash pad operates during warm months, making summer ideal for families with young children. Fall offers stunning foliage and cooler temperatures perfect for hiking without the summer crowds.

Admission and parking are completely free. The park has public washrooms but no on-site food vendors, so pack your own snacks and plenty of water. Most signage is in French, typical for this region of Quebec.

The splash pad typically operates from late May through early September, weather permitting. Trails are accessible year-round but can be icy in winter (bring appropriate footwear). Fall foliage peaks in late September to early October. Some facilities may have reduced hours or closures during winter months.

Benny & Co. (2 km away) offers family-friendly rotisserie chicken and poutine with a kids menu. La Belle Province on Chemin de Chambly serves classic Quebec fast food including hot dogs, burgers, and poutine at budget-friendly prices.