There are many Parks in Montreal- one with the most breath taking view of Montreal. I have been here a couple of times at different points during the year. Does have history so read up if your into it:)!
Mount Royal is a mid size volcanic hill adjacent to downtown Montreal. We decided to walk from St Laurent street post lunch from Swartz.
Many ways to get there. Our "trusty" Map-quest took us via Pin- Street.
We ended up on the Stadium side of McGill university. People were friendly along the way leading us to our destination. Option 1: Scenic Route windy paved road for a "casual" to "running path up the hill/mountain - vast trees - small creek- some wildlife ? (We saw a huge raccoon, squirrels and a gofer :). Can take a bike up- be prepared to trek up hill.
Option 2: stairs - from intersection Pins/Peel. Goes right up to the View Point. Watch out for those avid fitness junkies ( all positive) that are running up and down pass you.
Option 3: Bus 80 or I believe there's an express.
Option 4: taxi- expensive but good choice if raining or snowing :).
Option 5: unbeaten / unpaved path through the trees.
Any way up will also take you back down!
Also people are so friendly - all local. I am sure they were thinking why is this one attempting this with a cane! Doable !
Attire: we dressed casually as did the locals. Some wearing flip flops! Be prepared though- it's not a stroll unless u make it one. Benches along the way. Take water and do take some snacks. The beaver "lake" small quaint resting spot with man made pool. The Chateau at the top- nice architecture but just a space to rest - mostly everyone is outdoors enjoying the view - taking pics and listening to music. There's a few Popsicle vendors and unfortunately NO cafe - just vending machines. So decided if you want to eat prior it take snacks with you. During winter/early spring when raining or snowing - it wasn't this lively and we got taken to an adjacent smaller view point.
We decided going down - due to time and because I had a cane - Option2 was somewhat reasons for me :). Once we got to the bottom of the stairs - very steep walk down the rest of the way to McGill campus in the Middl of downtown.
Worth it !