rev:text
| - A hike up to the top of Mont Royal is an experience not to be missed if you're ever in Montreal. It doesn't take too long, but I would recommend leaving enough time to take a stroll around and take in the beautiful scenery. I was able to climb up the stairs (this is the shortcut) in about an hour - starting from the bottom of the street (corner of Peel and Maisonneuve). I stopped a lot along the way, as I wasn't feeling too well that day, so it's probably hike-able in less than an hour if you're full of energy that day. :) The final 100 steps or so are quite steep and nearly a vertical trek up, so it's something to keep in mind.
If you choose to take the leisurely route and stop through other historical spots, it is supposed to take about three hours. It's also allegedly a lot less steep, as the incline is gradual. I highly recommend checking out Frommers' "Walking Tour 3 or 4", which is a detailed self-guided tour through and up Mont Royal.
Once you reach the top of the stairs, you'll be at the Chalet du Mont Royal. It's a breathtaking view of the entire city, and I was lucky to be there on a sunny, but cool day. Even though it was the tail end of summer, the late afternoon breeze up there was quite chilly for an LA native such as myself!
You can continue past the Chalet, through a gravel-ish road that will lead you to the Croix (the cross atop the mountain). It takes about 10-15 minutes to get there from the Chalet, but it's a lovely walk through a visual of greenery that is so worth it.
Location is easy to get to, as the uphill trek starts in downtown area (very close to McGill University and the Peel or McGill metro stops). Do it!
|