Mount Royal

Mount Royal is a forested hill at the heart of Montreal, rising 233 meters (764 feet) above sea level and formed from igneous rock. Its surface is covered with paved and unpaved trails that wind through maple and oak forests, while an artificial lake called Beaver Lake sits on its western slope.

Landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted designed the park in 1876 to preserve the mountain natural terrain while making it accessible to the public. The name dates back to 1535, when Jacques Cartier visited the summit and named it after his hometown of Mont Réal.

The steps of the Kondiaronk Belvedere serve as a gathering spot for students, musicians, and families who pause after the climb to enjoy the view. Many paths and landmarks on the mountain carry names from the Iroquois language, recalling the First Nations who lived here before European settlers arrived.

The main entrance is on Avenue du Parc, while other access points are reachable from the Plateau and Westmount neighborhoods. In winter, the trails are suitable for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, while in summer several lookouts provide shade and benches.

The illuminated summit cross stands 31 meters (102 feet) tall and can be seen from almost any point in the city. The cross was once used to indicate the weather: white light meant snow, red meant rain, and blue meant clear conditions.