Just because nature is preparing to sleep for the winter doesn't mean you have to do the same. On the contrary! Fall is the perfect time for a variety of activities.
Omega at night: a beauty!
Montebello's famous Omega Park - home to wild animals from Quebec living almost freely in their natural environment - inaugurated a new attraction this year. An illuminated night course! Crossing the cedar forest, contemplating the swamp and listening to the sounds of nocturnal animals are on the agenda. A large screen adds to the experience by projecting two opposing male elk, suggesting the impressive crackling of their intertwining plumes. All this in an atmosphere full of mystery and beauty. From August 1 to October 13.
Be dazzled by the Mont Rouge
You already know that in the small municipality of Rougemont in Montérégie, it is possible to pick apples. But did you know that hiking in its mountains can be a unique experience? Mont Rouge got its name from autumn, because its leaves take on spectacular red and orange colours. At its top (which is not very high, so beginner level) there are rest areas that give a breathtaking view of the region. Why not have a picnic there?
The Garden of China and its splendour
If you never visited the Montreal Botanical Garden during fall, you are missing out! The Garden of China offers an immersion in oriental culture. Young and old visitors are invited to watch the famous illuminated lanterns, listen to a fishing story and live a multimedia experience. From September 6 to October 31.
Exploring nature on a quad bike
Do you want to experience thrills? Why not rent an off-road vehicle to go alone or in a group? A few locations across Quebec offer quad rental and access to safe but exciting routes. In particular, the company Chalets et villégiature de la rivière Daquaam, in the Saint-Just-de-Bretenières region, which offers cars from 2 to 6 seats. Trails can be explored with a guide if necessary.
A privileged encounter with moose
Moose, the large mammals that inhabit Quebec's forests, are poorly known to the population. Would you like to meet them? This is what La Forêt Montmorency of Université de Laval offers for the 13th consecutive year. Accompanied by a guide, you will discover this animal in its natural habitat while learning to recognize the signs of its presence. You will know everything about this impressive mammal! From September 20 to November 3.
Observe the universe at Mont-Mégantic
The Mont-Mégantic Observatory is unique in its kind in the world. Dedicated to the public, it features multimedia attractions that provide information about the solar system and its majestic planets, but also beyond the Milky Way. Its highly powerful telescope allows the observation of this large and enigmatic universe. Most services are available until November 9.
Climbing a mountain... at night!
You are probably aware of the existence of mountain climbing routes in Via Ferrata centres throughout Quebec. But did you know that some are open to the public at nightfall? This is the case with the one in Batiscan, near Trois-Rivières. It offers its clients the opportunity to climb the rocky walls, equipped with a headlamp. For the occasion, a projector illuminates the magnificent Fall of the Chimney. Mystery and excitement will be on the agenda until October 12.
Meeting 75,000 snow geese
The Cap Tourmente National Wildlife Area in Saint-Joachim hides a place that is not well known to tourists: a wilderness area where more than 75,000 snow geese can be observed in their natural habitat. During the migration period, in the fall, they prepare to make their long journey south. It is a spectacle for the eyes, but also for the ears which, thanks to the proximity of the crowd, capture the details of the sounds emitted by these birds. From September 21 to October 27.
Apple picking is not the only fun thing to do when the cold season arrives. So, which one (or ones!) of these activities will you try this year? Hurry, before the snow falls!