Our 7 favorite trail running trails in Estrie

Our team's favorite trails

The air is getting cooler and the colors of the trees are gradually changing. There is no denying that autumn has arrived!

This season is often associated with hiking in the mountains to admire the colors from the peaks. It is a time when outdoor sports abound and the landscapes take on more vibrant hues than ever.

If you aspire to feel the same emotions as we do while exploring the heights, we invite you to read this article, which inaugurates a series of others to come.

You may be wondering which mountain to choose for getting some fresh air or trail running? Don't worry, we're here to help. In the heart of one of the most beautiful regions in Quebec, at least in our eyes, here are the seven favorite trail running trails from the Coureur en Estrie team.

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1 - Crest Trail | Trail running

If the Sentier des Crêtes isn’t on your radar yet, now is the time to plan your outing! Starting at the Escalier du Nord, this trail takes you along steep, rocky paths. Once you reach Pic de la Roche-Fendue, continue to Pic de l’Ours for a breathtaking 360-degree view. Finish by climbing to the top of Mont Orford before returning to the starting point. This 16.6-kilometre loop offers an elevation gain of  928 meters. The technicality of the road and the magnificent views make it a memorable challenge.

See the route in detail

Photo credit: Mont Orford

2 - Mount Chapman and Bald Peak | Trail Running

Mount Chapman is ideal for beginner hikers. The trailhead is in Stoke, at the parking lot on Rang 14 (4 kilometers from the junction of Route 216), near Sherbrooke. The trail offers a loop of 8.6  kilometers, with the possibility of adding 2.5 kilometers round trip to reach Bald Peak and enjoy exceptional panoramas.

See the route in detail

Photo credit: Dan in boots

3 - Mount Gosford | Trail running

The Mont Gosford loop offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the mountains of the northern United States. It is considered the highest peak in Quebec. The start is at the reception of the ZEC Louise-Gosford and the loop extends for a total of approximately 17 kilometers with a positive elevation gain of approximately 600 meters.

See the route in detail

Photo credit: La Trekkie

4 - Mont Chauve | Trail running

With an elevation gain of 480 metres, Mont Chauve stands out for its breathtaking views of Lake Stukely and Mont Orford, as well as its very well-maintained trails. It offers a total immersion in a magical forest and leads you to a platform at the top to admire the view and even have a picnic. Covering a 10.6 km loop, the fall colours offer a breathtaking spectacle. Little secret: the sunsets on this mountain are simply spectacular!

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Photo credit: Authentik Canada

5 - Mont Cathédrale | Trail running

Cathedral Mountain is a quick but effective choice. It offers magnificent views from its summit and offers variations to increase the distances.The complete circuit is 4.7 kilometers with approximately 200 meters of elevation gain; this is the  perfect trail to start trail running.

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Photo credit: Mont Notre-Dame

6 - Mont Saint-Joseph | Trail running

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path, the Mont-Mégantic trails are a wonderful option. Accessible via the Mont-Mégantic National Park, Mont Saint-Joseph offers a 10-kilometre loop with breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains and their autumn colours. With an elevation gain of around 500 metres, this outing promises an unforgettable experience.

See the route in detail

Photo credit:  Ministry of the Environment, the Fight against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks

7- Peaks + Escarpment Trail | Trail running

If you want to feast your eyes on fall colors, the Sentier des Cimes, which starts in the Franceville sector of Mont-Mégantic, is the perfect destination.  It invites you to a spectacular loop of almost 11 kilometers, offering breathtaking panoramas.  At the top, you will have access to a breathtaking view of the rocky ridge of Franceville as well as the beautiful valley of the Montagne stream whose course is crisscrossed with waterfalls. With its elevation gain of 390 meters, the trail race is very accessible for those who want to give themselves a challenge.

*A little bonus, it is also possible to add the Escarpment loop to your outing to give you 6.4 kilometersmoreover.

See the route in detail

Photo credit: Tripadvisor
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Finally, before you head out on a hike, take a moment to learn about the access rights for each mountain and the equipment you need to enjoy it safely. And, of course, make sure you have the right shoes! 😉

➡️ https://lecoureur.com/

Always stay safe and take care of yourself up there.  in the mountains!