Hiking

Get outside and start exploring the beautiful property of Kenauk Nature. Kenauk offers a network of trails for all levels of experience. Hiking at Kenauk is a great activity for families and the perfect way to enjoy our breathtaking scenery. Please stop at the front gate or Whitefish Lake for directions and maps. Trails are identified with yellow plastic markers (10cm x 15cm) that are labelled with an arrow or trail number and a symbol indicating the level of difficulty.

Green circles identify easier trails, blue squares identify intermediate trails and black diamonds indicate difficult trails.

All trails can be accessed for free by chalet guests.

(Day passes are available for walk-in customers, starting at $40) It is recommended to call ahead of your visit for an update on the trail conditions.

Download a map of the area

TRAIL 1 – SKYMOUNT (INTERMEDIATE)

Distance: 2.1km each way (1.3 miles)

Duration: 2 hours

Starting Point: On the right side of the main road, between the 1st and 2nd kilometer points there is a small beige shelter at the trailhead. If you’ve crossed the green bridge you’ve gone too far!

Description: This trail climbs steadily, eventually ending at a the top of Mount Skymount . Along the way you’ll walk up the rocky bed of a springtime river and later you must traverse a beaver dam. You can also admire the Ottawa River that borders the property and on a clear day the Adirondack Mountains are visible to the south.

Access the map on the Ondago app

TRAIL 4 – FERN TRAIL (INTERMEDIATE)

Distance: 3.6km round trip (2.3 miles)

Duration: 2 hours

Starting Point: On the right side of the main road, between kilometers 4 and 5, there is a small beige shelter at the trailhead.

Description: This trail descends slowly through a young hardwood forest, then turns right and follows the Kinonge River downstream. When you reach an old bridge you must turn around and return on the same trail (Closed for repairs – Hikers cannot cross the bridge). The return hike can seem steeper on the way back up!

Access the map on the Ondago app

 

TRAIL 9 – HEMLOCK TRAIL (EASY)

Distance: 3.0km loop (1.9 miles)

Duration: 1.45 hours for trail #9 only 

Starting Point: On the right side of the main road, at kilometer 9. Parking is available at the Whitefish Lake Activity Center.

Description: This is a great family hike! It weaves through many forest types, including a century old Hemlock forest, and then follows the Kinonge River. You will be taken aback by the beautiful aquatic plants as well as being given ample opportunity to view magnificent marsh wildlife including great blue herons, ducks, muskrats, otters, beavers and deer.

Access the map on the Ondago app

 

TRAIL 10 – BALDY (DIFFICULT)

Distance: 8.5km total (5.4 miles)

Duration: 4 hours

Starting Point: On the main road, at kilometer 12, take a right turn onto Baie Noire road which crosses the Kinonge River. The parking (P10) is located 1 km past the turnoff for Makwa Chalet, trail #10 on your right.

Description: The trail veers away from the road as you start climbing Baldy Mountain. Hike up following the markers until you come to the first lookout point with breathtaking views of Papineau Lake and you can even catch a hint of Mont-Tremblant on the horizon. On the exposed rocky parts of the trail, where there aren’t many trees, we have used cairns (piles of rock) to mark the trail in combination with the yellow markers. At this point you can keep going for another 1.5 km towards the second point of view (the trail descends into a saddle before climbing back up to the rock plateau).

Access the map on the Ondago app

Frequently
Asked Questions

Where are the hiking trails located at Kenauk Nature?

The hiking trails are located in the heart of the private Kenauk Nature reserve, in the municipality of Montebello, Outaouais.

The site is easily accessible from Montreal (approximately 90 minutes) and Ottawa (approximately 60 minutes).

The trails are well-marked and allow you to explore forests, lakes, and surrounding hills at your own pace—whether you’re hiking solo, with friends, or as a family.

Additionally, the ONDAGO mobile app (available on Android and iOS ) allows you to track your location in real time on the trails, ensuring a safe and convenient experience.

Are the hiking trails at Kenauk Nature suitable for beginners?

Yes! Several trails are accessible for all skill levels, from beginners to more experienced hikers.

Is hiking at Kenauk Nature suitable for families and all ages?

Yes! The trail network is designed to accommodate all ages and group types, making it ideal for families and friends alike.

Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails?

Yes! Dogs are allowed on leash for everyone’s safety.

Visitors must clean up after their pets and dispose of waste in designated bins to keep the trails clean and enjoyable.

Are there scenic viewpoints along the hiking trails?

Yes! Some trails, such as Baldy and Sky Mount, offer beautiful panoramic views of the valley, Lake Papineau, and the Ottawa River.

Are the hiking trails always accessible regardless of weather?

Generally yes, but temporary closures may occur depending on weather conditions or trail maintenance.

It is recommended to call ahead if you are unsure.

 

Can I hike for the day without staying in a chalet?

Yes! Day visitors are welcome to access the hiking trails. Passes can be purchased for $40 at the front gate.

Do chalet guests have free access to hiking trails?

Yes! Guests staying in chalets enjoy complimentary access to the trail network.

What are the access fees for hiking at Kenauk Nature?

  • $40 per adult / day
  • $65 per family / day (2 adults and up to 3 children)

Fees include taxes and do not apply to chalet guests.

How do I book or pay for trail access?

Payment and reservations follow the same process as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Day visitors can pay on-site.

Is it possible to use the hiking trails during hunting season?

Certain trails are available to guests who have rented a chalet. Day hikers are not permitted during hunting season.

Are there ticks in the forests?

Ticks are present in the forests of southwestern Quebec, but the risk remains low if you take simple precautions.

We recommend wearing long, light-colored clothing, using insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin, and checking your skin and children’s skin after outdoor activities. If bitten, it is important to remove the tick quickly and monitor for the appearance of symptoms. Enjoy your hike with peace of mind by simply remaining vigilant.