Plan your Visit
Practical information for planning your visit
We strongly recommend wearing long pants and closed-toe shoes to avoid tick or mosquito bites. It is also important to dress according to the forecasted weather or potential variations throughout the day:
- Long-sleeved jacket
- Windbreaker or waterproof jacket
- Hat or cap
- Closed-toe shoes or securely fastened sandals
- Rain boots
- Covering your shoulders is recommended to prevent sunburn.
What you should bring
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Hat or cap
- Water bottle (lots of water, as the water on-site is not drinkable)
- Several snacks and your lunch
- Backpack to carry your personal belongings
- Completed risk acceptance forms for each participant for water activities
Check the weather before
you leave!
Good to know
Pets
Dogs are allowed on the hiking trails of the Lac Saint-François National Wildlife Reserve. They must be leashed at all times, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after them.
However, since the marsh and its meanders are a conservation area for various waterfowl and they nest there, dogs are not allowed on the water in the national wildlife reserve to avoid disturbing the fauna in this ecosystem.
Trail Etiquette
The protected area is best explored on foot. When hiking, you inevitably leave traces of your presence in nature. However, it is possible to minimize your impact.
- Stay on designated trails.
- Do not remove anything from nature.
- Carry out all your waste, including biodegradable items.
- Do not feed the animals.
- Observe wildlife from a distance.
- Respect the tranquility of the surroundings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we sleep or camp on-site?
It is not possible to sleep on the premises of the Lac-Saint-François National Wildlife Reserve.
Are the trails accessible during winter?
The reserve is accessible from April to December, from sunrise to sunset. However, maintenance and visitor services are only available from May to October.
We have found an injured animal, can we bring it to you?
No. Please contact your Municipality to inquire about services available for injured animals.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are allowed on the hiking trails of the Lac Saint-François National Wildlife Reserve. They must be kept on a leash at all times, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after them.
However, since the marsh and its meanders are a conservation area for various waterfowl species that nest there, dogs are not allowed on the water in the wildlife reserve to avoid disturbing the fauna in this ecosystem.
