Top 12 Hiking Trails in Abitibi-Témiscamingue
May 14, 2026
With its 22,000 lakes and rivers and vast forests, Abitibi-Témiscamingue is the perfect playground for hiking enthusiasts.
The trails wind from rocky ridges to boreal forests, skirt tranquil lakes, or lead to lookouts where the horizon seems endless.
Want to go for a hike but don’t know where to start? Here are 12 must-try trails to explore the region on foot. Some are easy and perfect for a leisurely outing. Others will definitely give your calves a workout.
In short, pack your boots and backpack: the scenery is worth every step.
Want to go for a walk with your dog?
Several trails in the area allow dogs. Before you go, take a moment to check which ones allow them.
Consulte la liste des sentiers1. Aiguebelle National Park
Rouyn-Noranda
It’s impossible to talk about hiking in Abitibi-Témiscamingue without mentioning this iconic park near Rouyn-Noranda: Aiguebelle National Park.
There are several trails for all skill levels, including:
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Mont-Dominant (dogs allowed)
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L’Aventurier
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L’Élan (dogs allowed)
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L’Escalade
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La Salamandre/La Loutre (dogs allowed)
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The Little Nomad (dogs allowed)
If you want to take in the fall colors, the Mont-Dominant, Élan, and Escalade trails offer stunning views from above. As for the Aventurier Trail, it’s beautiful no matter the season.
The La Castorière trail is accessible to people with limited mobility and dogs, allowing even more people to enjoy the park.
It’s a great starting point for exploring hiking in the region.
2. The Transkékéko at the Kékéko Hills
Rouyn-Noranda
If you’re looking for a challenge, you’ll love the Transkékéko.
This 12.6-kilometer hike traverses the Kékéko Hills, a rugged mountain range with impressive terrain. It can be accessed from the Arntfield side via the La Faille and Petit chemin Kékéko trails.
Along the way, you'll walk through plateaus and valleys, with the added bonus of passing by Lake Donez and Lake Grance.
Note:
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challenging hike
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steep slopes
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no emergency exit points
But if you prefer a gentler hike, the hills also offer several shorter trails.
3. Opasatica Trails
Rouyn-Noranda
The Opasatica trails wind through a rare geological formation dating back approximately 1.1 billion years.
Three parallel trails wind through the peninsula jutting into Lake Opasatica, one of which follows a spectacular ridge. Along the way, you’ll discover about fifteen panoramic views of the lake and the forest.
The area is also impressive in terms of its natural beauty:
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huge white pines
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spruce
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thujas
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yellow birches
Expect some elevation changes, cliffs, and rocky outcrops as well. It’s a favorite spot among local hikers.
4. Great Blue Heron Observation Point
Macamic
Near Macamic, the Grand Héron hiking trails and observation deck wind through a peaceful mixed forest dotted with interpretive signs about the local flora and fauna.
The highlight of the show? A 10-meter-high observation tower and a lookout point that offer a magnificent view of the islands in Lake Macamic.
Some even have a heron rookery.
If you enjoy birdwatching, don’t forget your binoculars!
5. Hébécourt Hills
Rapide-Danseur
Located in the Lake Duparquet Education and Research Forest, the Collines d’Hébécourt offer a variety of hiking trails in a wild setting.
The trails can be:
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loop
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linear
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easy to challenging
At the top of the hills, the views of the boreal forest are particularly impressive.
6. Arboretum Trail
Amos
The Arboretum’s 1.3-kilometer interpretive trail is located on the site of the former Trécesson forest nursery, near Amos.
Between 1928 and 1971, various hybrid tree species were planted there to test their resistance to the Abitibi climate.
Today, these experiments have given way to majestic mature trees.
A short hike perfect for an educational outing in nature.
7. Askikwaj Bird Sanctuary
La Corne
The Askikwaj Bird Sanctuary, near La Corne, is a little paradise for birdwatchers.
Among other species, you can spot:
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loon
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ruby-throated hummingbird
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warbler
The Belvédères Trail leads to several overlooks of the region, while the Oiseaux Trail is dotted with birdhouses.
The trails are rustic but well-marked, which adds to the charm of the place.
8. Millennium Rock Hiking Trail
Preissac
The Roche du Millénaire Trail winds through the boreal forest near Preissac, often lined with wild blueberries.
At the top of the trail, you’ll discover the famous Millennium Rock, a 250-ton erratic boulder left behind by melting glaciers.
Along the way, many visitors take the time to build a small inukshuk, adding their own stone to those already there.
A simple place, yet full of symbolism.
9. Opémican National Park
Témiscaming
Located in Témiscamingue, Opémican National Park is known for its rugged terrain, rocky cliffs, and the scenery of Lake Témiscamingue.
Popular hikes include:
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La Grande-Chute (dogs allowed)
- La Paroi-aux-Focons
- The Kipawa River
Families will also enjoy the obstacle course for kids near Grande-Chute.
A perfect spot to combine hiking with exploring the great outdoors.
10. Les Quinze Water Playground
Notre-Dame-du-Nord
The Récré-eau des Quinze connects five communities within a historic watershed.
In the past, these paths were used by Indigenous peoples. Today, the trails offer a chance to explore the area, taking in lakes, power plants, and lookout points.
The views of the river and the surrounding landscapes are well worth the detour.
11. Mount Bell
Senneterre
Just a few kilometers from Senneterre, Mont Bell is a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts.
At the summit, the lookout points offer spectacular views of the Abitibi horizon.
There are also:
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several kilometers of hiking trails
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mountain bike trails
And in winter, the mountain becomes a playground for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
12. École Buissonnière
Dubuisson
In Dubuisson, the École Buissonnière nature trail offers a 3-kilometer hike through the Piché-Lemoyne Forest.
The trail is accessible and pleasant, perfect for a leisurely walk.
Right next door, the Explorateurs Forest Park is a great spot to take a break for a picnic and enjoy the view of the Piché River.
Lace up your boots and head out to explore
Want to discover even more outdoor activities in the area? Check out Accès plein air for more ideas on things to do.
And above all: take your time, breathe in the fresh air, and let nature do the rest.