This is a 5.2 km hike with 213 m of elevation gain located near in St-Donat. The drive from Montreal is about 1h50 min. There is no cost of entry and this is an in and out trail.
Like every sport or activity it’s important to always adjust to the experience and endurance of the partners you have. Not hiking with my normal partners on this one, I went for a shorter and less elevated trail which makes it an easy hike.
The first potion of the hike is the one where you will get lots rocks and if it rain the day before like it happened in my case lots of mud. What this hike lacks in height and difficulty it gains in views. When you reach the top you have a magnificent view on Lac Ouareau. You will also get a nice view of the the St-Donat municipal airport and the various mountains of the area.
As you continue towards the Refuge La Chouette you will trade the rocks for lots of tree roots and more mud. You will then need to cross an ATV-Snowmobile track to get back on the trail, keep your ears open for the engine noise and you’ll be fine. The trail continues after you’ve reach the Refuge but it does not loop so plan your hike according to your regular pace and distance. You can actually rent the refuge if you want to stay there. You can get all the information through Club Plein Air Saint-Donat
If you are looking for a short hike with beautiful views the place is a must.
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BY SEBASTIEN ROBILLARD
Seb's Urban Adventures 