Libre comme Mélanie: A starry night at the summit of Mont Kaaikop
Her taste for adventure developed overseas, where she found the love of her life while travelling the world. But it was upon returning to her roots, surrounded by Quebec’s landscapes, that she fell in love with the forests and mountains around her. "It was there that my passion for capturing vivid and authentic moments was born," she tells us.
This time, Mélanie brings us along with her and her +1 on a memorable escape to the summit of Mont Kaaikop, to spend a night under a sky full of stars, surrounded by the vibrant colours of autumn forests.
A magical ascent to Mont Kaaikop
For this escape to Mont Kaaikop, located in the Laurentians, plan for a hike of about 4 to 5 hours round-trip, depending on your pace. The well-marked trail starts at the main parking lot, with an elevation gain of 550 metres that offers a good challenge while remaining accessible. The initial sections of the climb wind through a forest mainly composed of maples and conifers, with colourful carpets of autumn leaves making the path particularly enchanting.
As you ascend, the trail presents some rocky sections, offering views of the surrounding hills and the majestic landscapes of the Laurentians that we all love. Once you reach the summit, the reward is a 360-degree panoramic view, revealing vast forested expanses and nearby lakes. It’s the perfect spot to set up camp and enjoy the peacefulness of the summit!
A night under the stars
To enjoy a comfortable night at the summit, it’s essential to come well-prepared. Make sure to bring lightweight camping gear suitable for mountain conditions: a wind-resistant tent, a warm sleeping bag for the cool autumn nights, and an insulated sleeping pad for added comfort.
Once settled in, the show begins as the sun sets behind the mountains, and the sky takes on shades of gold and orange. Clear nights are perfect for stargazing, with the summit offering minimal light pollution. Don’t forget to bring a camera with a tripod to capture the beauty of the night sky, and maybe even the last traces of comet C/2023 A3.
Descending and exploring the surroundings
The next morning, after enjoying an equally memorable sunrise, it’s time to prepare for a leisurely descent. Take your time to explore the trail’s surroundings and make the most of the many viewpoints that reveal themselves on the way back. For those who wish to extend the adventure, make a detour to nearby Lake Ouareau for a relaxing break before hitting the road again.
Other hiking ideas in Quebec
- Mont Ham
Located in the Eastern Townships, Mont Ham offers a trail leading to a summit with a 360-degree view. It's an ideal spot for a night under the stars, with the conditions just right for stargazing.
- Mont Gosford
This 1193-metre summit in the Mégantic region is perfect for high-altitude camping. The trails lead to spectacular viewpoints overlooking the surrounding mountains.
- Mont Mégantic
Situated within the International Dark Sky Reserve, this national park is one of the best places in Quebec for stargazing. It offers pristine skies and a variety of hiking trails for different levels.
- Mont Saint-Joseph
Accessible via a short hike, this summit in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region provides a stunning view of the St. Lawrence River and nearby islands. Perfect for a memorable night hike and a peaceful camping experience.
There’s always time to enjoy it
Autumn is the ideal season to experience a mountain adventure and recharge in the presence of nature. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a novice seeking new adventures, these escapes offer an intimate connection with the great outdoors.
Pack your backpack, lace up your hiking boots, and set out to discover Quebec’s summits. You’ll surely come back with unforgettable memories, renewed energy, and that feeling of freedom that only nature can provide. Let’s go!
