Tips for Summer Hiking

Now that you’ve stored your skis, snowshoes, and skates, it’s time to get out your walking boots. The summer season has finally arrived! Leave your luggage at Espace 4 Saisons and head for the hiking trails. The resort is a stone’s throw from Mont Orford National Park and only a couple of minutes from some of the Eastern Townships’ most beautiful outdoor attractions.

The following is a brief guide to enjoying a summer hike to the max! By preparing a few things in advance before you tackle the trails, you can concentrate on absorbing the beauty and tranquility of the natural surroundings.

What to Put In Your Backpack

Always make sure your water bottle remains topped up and that you take along plenty of nutritious snacks (pack more than you think you’ll need, just in case!) The important thing is to decide whether you’re going to take a long or a short walk. That’ll give you a rough idea of how much food and drink to prepare beforehand.

Although trees provide some shade when hiking through the woods, you should also cover yourself with sunscreen and wear a head covering and sunglasses. Packing a small bottle of insect repellent is a good idea as well!

Even if it’s hot, bring a windbreaker, preferably waterproof. In the mountains, the weather can change very quickly, and you could encounter a sudden downpour! If you have space left in your backpack, you might want to add a foil blanket to keep you warm in case of inclement weather.

A mini first aid kit could come in handy too. You can find one at a pharmacy or a sports/outdoor store, or alternately just create your own.

Before you head out, make sure that your cellphone is fully charged! Using it as a GPS uses up a lot of power. Otherwise, bring along a compass and a trail map.

Where to Walk

Mount Orford, which is very close to Espace 4 Saisons, is of course, one of the best places to hike in the Townships. Walking circuits, boardwalks, lookout points and breathtaking views await—the perfect “recipe” for a great outdoor experience. Check out the trail map and get ready for a wonderful outdoor adventure!   

Wanting to walk with the family? If so, head for the Marais de la Rivière-aux-Cerises in Magog, where you’ll find five kilometres of trails. Some are boardwalks, others are gravel, but they are all easy and can be negotiated by people of all ages and levels of ability. Incidentally, the Magog marsh is crossed by the longest stretch of raised boardwalk in Quebec—1.2km!

Interested in exploring other areas in the region that offer great hiking? Check out the Eastern Townships Tourism website, where you will find trails in the following regions: Orford, Bromont, Coaticook, Lac-Mégantic, Sherbrooke, Granby, and more…

Recharge Your Batteries

After a day of physical activity, you’ll probably want to rest your body to ensure that you aren’t left with aching muscles! First stop—the jacuzzi and indoor/outdoor swimming pool at Espace 4 Saisons. Unwind while taking in the splendid mountain view…

Feeling in need of pampering? Well then, head for the Dôme de Morphée aesthetic spa. It’s located within the hotel complex, and you can book a relaxing massage (your tight muscles will appreciate that!) or an exfoliating treatment. In next to no time, you’ll be ready to take to the trails once again!

Inspiration for Another Hike

Spectacular images of beautiful landscapes on social media are guaranteed to make you want to get back out in the fresh air! Check the Mel Bertrand, 4000hikes and Mont-Orford accounts for inspiration.