The massive wilderness of the Laurentides reserve is one of Quebec’s little-known treasures. This is despite its proximity to the provincial capital. The vast maze of woodlands, lakes, rivers, mountains, and valleys has been protected as a forest area since 1895 and as a wildlife reserve since 1981. Anglers and outdoor people are drawn to the area by the abundant native brook trout that swim its lakes and rivers, as well as by the reserve’s dependable and long-lasting mantle of snow which ensures superior cross-country skiing.

The reserve’s landscape is very green and slightly mountainous. Covered in conifers and stands of white birch and balsam fir, the tallest peaks barely exceed 2,000 feet. The far eastern section of the reserve is more akin to taiga and tundra.

For those less confident of a solitary adventure into the Laurentides wilderness, the reserve will arrange guided, interpreted tours that feature wolf and black bear observations in the wild.