Introduction
Summer in the West Island and Vaudreuil-Soulanges region is all about getting outside and enjoying everything our communities have to offer. If you’re searching for the best free outdoor activities West of Montreal, you honestly don’t need to go far to have an amazing day. From waterfront cycling paths and sandy beaches to kayaking, hiking trails, outdoor yoga classes, and family-friendly parks, the West of Montreal is packed with ways to enjoy summer without spending much money.
Whether you live in Dorval, Pointe-Claire, Kirkland, DDO, L’Île-Perrot, Pincourt, Hudson, Rigaud, or Saint-Lazare, there’s something nearby that makes summer here feel special.
Table of Contents
Bike Along the Lakeshore and Waterfront Paths
One of the best free outdoor activities West of Montreal is exploring the incredible cycling network along the Lakeshore. You can bike through Dorval, Pointe-Claire Village, Beaconsfield, Kirkland, and Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue while enjoying beautiful views of Lac Saint-Louis.
For a quieter and more nature-focused ride, the Soulanges Canal bike path near Les Cèdres and Vaudreuil-Dorion is a local favorite. The trail is mostly flat, scenic, and perfect for families or casual cyclists.
Spend the Day at Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park
One of the absolute must-visit summer destinations in the West Island is Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park. Located near DDO and Pierrefonds, it’s one of the largest nature parks in Montreal and easily one of the best free outdoor activities near the West of Montreal.
You’ll find hiking trails, bike paths, picnic areas, forest walks, and even a sandy beach along Lac des Deux Montagnes. It’s perfect for swimming, relaxing by the water, or spending the day outdoors with family. Locals also love bringing paddle boards and kayaks here during summer weekends.
Spend a Summer Day at Bellevue Park in Pincourt
If you’re looking for free outdoor activities near L’Île-Perrot and Pincourt, Bellevue Park is one of the hidden gems of the area. Located right on the waterfront, this park offers walking paths, picnic areas, lake views, and access to the beach area during summer.
The nearby nautical centre also offers kayak, paddle board, and pedal boat rentals if you want to add a little adventure to your day. Even just walking along the water here feels relaxing and vacation-like.
Explore the Forest Trails in Saint-Lazare and Rigaud
Nature lovers are lucky to have beautiful hiking trails so close to home. Rigaud Mountain is one of the best places for hiking near the West of Montreal, with forest trails, lookout points, and peaceful scenery.
Saint-Lazare also has gorgeous wooded trails and equestrian paths that are perfect for morning walks or weekend adventures. These areas feel surprisingly removed from the city and are ideal if you want fresh air and quiet nature.
Visit Nature Parks Across the West Island
Beyond Cap-Saint-Jacques, the West of Montreal is full of beautiful green spaces that are perfect for free outdoor adventures.
Some local favorites include:
- Bois-de-Liesse Nature Park
- Parc-nature de l’Anse-à-l’Orme
- Terra-Cotta Natural Park
- Parc historique de la Pointe-du-Moulin in NDIP
These parks are ideal for walking, biking, birdwatching, photography, and peaceful summer afternoons outdoors.
Go swimming
Plage du Cap-Saint-Jacques
This is probably the most famous legal beach in the West Island — and for good reason. Located inside Parc-nature du Cap-Saint-Jacques near Pierrefonds and DDO, it offers a supervised sandy beach, swimming area, picnic spots, hiking trails, and beautiful lake views. It’s one of the few true public beaches directly on the island of Montreal.
Beaconsfield Beach
A popular local waterfront area for relaxing, beach walks, and enjoying the lake during summer. Many locals come here for paddle boarding, kayaking, and supervised swimming during warmer months.
Sandy Beach
Located near Hudson, this is a favorite for families wanting a more natural beach atmosphere close to the water. It’s especially popular on hot weekends.
Bellevue Park
Bellevue Park in Pincourt is well known for its waterfront access, sandy area, and family-friendly atmosphere. While much of the attraction is the nautical centre and water activities, many locals also use the area for swimming and relaxing by the water in summer.
Oka Beach
Technically just outside the West Island area, but absolutely worth mentioning. Oka Beach is one of Quebec’s best-known public beaches and an easy summer day trip from Vaudreuil, Hudson, Saint-Lazare, or L’Île-Perrot.
