Background

Mount Royal Park: Montreal's Green Heart

Escape to nature in the heart of Montreal. Explore scenic views, diverse trails, and year-round activities in Frederick Law Olmsted's urban masterpiece.

4.8

Mount Royal Park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, offers Montrealers and visitors a vast green space for recreation and stunning city views. Inaugurated in 1876, the park features diverse activities, from hiking and cycling to ice skating and snowshoeing, making it a year-round destination.

A brief summary to Mount Royal Park

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the park's many trails and pathways.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy at Beaver Lake or one of the park's scenic viewpoints.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as conditions can change quickly on the mountain.
  • Visit Smith House for information about the park's history, flora, and fauna.
  • Take public transportation or bike to the park, as parking can be limited, especially on weekends.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Metro Mont-Royal, take Bus 11 (west) and stop at Remembrance/Chemin du Chalet or Lac-aux-Castors. Alternatively, Bus 711 runs on weekends year-round and daily during the summer. From Metro Côte-des-Neiges, take Bus 165 (south) and stop at Forest Hill, then transfer to Bus 11 (east). A single ride costs $3.75 CAD. A 24-hour pass is available for $11.25 CAD.

  • Walking

    From downtown, walk north on Peel Street and climb the stairs leading to the Kondiaronk Belvedere. From the south, enter at the corner of Rue Peel and Avenue des Pins (W) and climb the stairs to the Kondiaronk Lookout. From the east, walk Chemin Olmsted to the summit or take the stairs mid-route to the Kondiaronk Belvedere.

  • Driving

    Search 'Mont Royal Parking' on Google Maps for available parking. Metered parking is available at Smith House and the Beaver Lake Pavilion. Parking rates are approximately $4.25 CAD per hour. Note that parking can be limited, especially on weekends. It is not possible to drive to the Mount Royal Chalet.

Unlock the Best of Mount Royal Park

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Mount Royal Park

Mount Royal Park, a sprawling 200-hectare urban oasis, provides Montrealers with a natural escape and panoramic views of the city. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, who also co-designed New York's Central Park, it was inaugurated in 1876. The park's creation followed a public campaign to protect the mountain from deforestation and ensure public enjoyment. The park boasts diverse landscapes and attractions. The Kondiaronk Belvedere offers stunning views of downtown Montreal and the St. Lawrence River. Beaver Lake provides recreational activities such as paddle boating in the summer and ice skating in the winter. The illuminated Mount Royal Cross, erected in 1924, stands as a prominent landmark. Smith House serves as an interpretive center, offering insights into the park's history and ecology. Visitors can explore numerous trails for hiking, cycling, and cross-country skiing. The Olmsted Trail, a wide gravel path, is popular for walking, jogging, and cycling. In winter, snow tubing and tobogganing are popular activities. The park is also a National Heritage Site, preserving a natural wilderness in the city's heart. Mount Royal's history dates back to 1535 when Jacques Cartier named the mountain. In 1643, Montreal's founder, Paul Chomedey de Maisonneuve, erected a cross on the mountain. Today, Mount Royal Park remains a vital part of Montreal's identity, offering a blend of nature, recreation, and cultural heritage.

Popular Experiences near Mount Royal Park

Popular Hotels near Mount Royal Park

Select Currency