Escape Montreal for a full-day canoe-hike that pairs a 5 km section of the Sentier National with a 6 km canoe descent on the L'Assomption River. Guided transport, equipment loan, and local interpretation make this an accessible outdoor day trip for moderately fit hikers and paddlers.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning light slices across the windshield as the minibus pulls away from the Radisson metro at 8:00 a.m., the city shrinking behind you. Within an hour the pavement gives up to forested shoulders and the air tastes like pine; by midmorning you’re stepping onto the Sentier National for a brisk 5-kilometre walk through mixed maple and birch stands.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8–10 hours
Fitness Level
Should be comfortable hiking 5 km on rolling terrain and paddling 6 km; able to carry a daypack and follow safety instructions.
Wildlife
History
The L'Assomption corridor served Indigenous communities and later supported timber transport in the 18th–19th centuries; many modern trails follow those older travel lines.
Conservation
Operators emphasize cleaning gear between sites and staying on designated trails; avoid introducing seeds or aquatic organisms into the river and pack out all waste.
Reserve your spot on the Canoe-hike day with departure from Montreal today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Meet promptly at Radisson metro
The driver-guide departs on schedule; arrive 10–15 minutes early with your ticket and any special dietary notes.
Footwear that can get wet
Choose trail shoes or sandals with grip—the hike includes damp roots and the canoe launch means wet feet are likely.
Hydration and lunch
Bring 1–2 L of water and a packed lunch or ask the guide to stop en route for supplies; energy bars are handy for the paddle.
Protect boats and waterways
Clean shoes and gear before arrival to avoid transporting invasive plant seeds into the river system.
Daypack
Holds lunch, water, rain layer and first-aid—keeps essentials reachable on both trail and river.
Quick-dry clothing
Dries fast if splashed during the canoe leg and layers easily in variable spring/fall weather.
summer
Sturdy trail shoes or river sandals
Grip for roots and rocks on the trail and protection during canoe launches.
Insect repellent & sunscreen
Essential in warm months when mosquitoes and sun exposure increase.
summer