Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles

Imagine a green labyrinth of a thousand tiny islands, quiet channels, and dense forests — this is Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles. Spanning over 200 hectares in Laval, this unique nature park and ecological reserve is just a few minutes' drive from the metropolis of Montreal. While officially classified as a museum, this place is more like a living, open-air nature laboratory.

For a country like Canada, preserving such ecosystems is a priority. The park is famous for its rich marshes and waterways, which have become home to hundreds of bird and mammal species. Here, you can spot rare herons, busy beavers, and the lush vegetation characteristic of the region.

At the heart of the park is the ecological education center. Through interactive exhibits, visitors are introduced to the secrets of local flora and fauna. It is not just a walking area, but a complete scientific and recreational complex that offers a sense of complete harmony with nature without having to travel far from the city.

To confirm details before your visit or to book excursions, you can use the following contact information:

For outdoor enthusiasts, the park offers more than 25 kilometers of marked trails, perfect for hiking and cycling. These routes cross scenic wooden bridges and lead to observation decks with panoramic views of the river. During the summer season, kayaking and canoeing are particularly popular: exploring the narrow channels between the islands on your own allows you to see the reserve from a completely different perspective.

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, guided boat tours are available, where professional guides share fascinating insights into the river's biodiversity. In winter, the park transforms into a true winter wonderland, offering cross-country skiing and snowmobile tours. Don't forget your binoculars — special zones provide excellent conditions for watching herons, ducks, and other feathered inhabitants.

Be sure to visit the ecology museum at the park's center. There, you can see aquariums featuring river life and participate in interactive programs. After an active day, it is wonderful to enjoy a family picnic in one of the specially equipped areas by the water, soaking in the peace and fresh air.

Getting to this natural oasis from the city center is quite simple: the drive takes about 20–30 minutes. Take Highway 15 or 440 toward Laval. On-site parking is available, which may be subject to a fee during peak tourist seasons.

If you prefer public transportation, take the orange metro line to Montmorency station. From there, bus routes 73 or 26 run to the park entrance. You can also always order a taxi or Uber from Montreal; a one-way trip typically costs between 30 and 50 Canadian dollars.

The history of preserving this scenic corner began in 1985, when the Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles was officially recognized as a wildlife sanctuary. Its creation was a response to the rapid urbanization of the region, which threatened the unique wetland ecosystem that had been forming here for thousands of years.

In the distant past, these lands held great significance for indigenous peoples, particularly the Iroquois, who used the extensive network of channels for fishing and hunting. With the arrival of European settlers in the 19th century, the land's use changed: agriculture and river shipping developed, traces of which can still be found in the surrounding areas.

By the mid-20th century, the river's ecological state had significantly declined due to industrial pollution. However, thanks to the active efforts of local environmentalists and authorities in the 1970s, a major campaign was launched to protect the islands. Today, the park serves as an exemplary model of how wilderness can be restored and preserved in close proximity to a major metropolis.

To fully enjoy the sanctuary's atmosphere, we recommend setting aside 3 to 5 hours for your visit. This is enough time for a leisurely stroll along the hiking trails, a visit to the ecology museum, and a one-hour kayak or canoe trip on the water.

If you plan to have a full picnic on one of the islands or participate in an in-depth guided educational tour, it is better to reserve an entire day for your visit. Immersing yourself in the world of wild nature requires quiet and no rush.

The park is usually open to visitors daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. During the summer months, when the daylight hours are longer, opening times may be extended until 7:00 PM, allowing guests to enjoy the sunset on the water.

In the winter, the schedule may be shortened depending on weather conditions. As the schedule can change for seasonal events or holidays, we strongly recommend checking the official website before your trip.

The area surrounding the park offers many options for active recreation to make your trip even more fulfilling. After a peaceful walk through the forest, you can change the pace and head to one of the entertainment centers in Laval or Montreal.

Below are some interesting locations situated near the reserve: