The long-awaited return to the trails
There is that precise moment when the desire comes back. Not gently… but all at once.
The boots sitting by the door, the trails we start imagining again, the call of the outdoors growing too strong to ignore. Spring is often exactly that: a long-awaited return.
But when we set foot back on the trail, we quickly realize one thing — not everything is perfectly in place yet. The ground is soft, patches of snow linger, and the wind still has a bit of a bite. And that’s okay. Spring is not like any other season. It’s a transition. An in-between.
In this guide, I invite you to embrace that reality. To start again slowly, thoughtfully… so you can enjoy your season even more and avoid the classic early-season pitfalls.
Spring, a season of its own for hiking
Spring calls for a different approach. One might think that as soon as the snow melts, trails become accessible again like in summer. But in reality, this is often when conditions are at their most unpredictable. Snowmelt, waterlogged ground, icy sections lingering in the shade… A single trail can change completely from one week to the next — or even from one kilometer to another. And this is even more true from one region to another. While some areas are already dry, others are still deep in thaw. That’s why in spring, the best reflex is to rely on real conditions… not the calendar. Before heading out, we check. And most importantly, once we’re there, we adapt.
Getting back into the rhythm (without overdoing it)
After winter, the body is in transition, too. Even if we stayed active, hiking engages specific muscles and a very particular kind of endurance. Breathing feels different. So does the pace. And this is often where we make the mistake: trying to pick up exactly where we left off in the fall. Spring is meant for easing back in gradually. Shorter outings. Simpler trails. Gentler goals.
Dressing and adapting to variable spring conditions
If there is one season when clothing truly makes all the difference… it’s spring. The keyword: adapt. Mornings are cool, afternoons can be surprisingly mild, and the wind often complicates things. Not to mention the moisture that easily finds its way in. The solution remains simple: layering. The well-known onion-skin technique: the layering system. A breathable base layer, a lightweight insulating layer, and protection against wind or rain. Nothing complicated — but everything must be easy to adjust along the way. Because in spring hiking, you take layers off, put them back on, and constantly fine-tune. No need to overpack. The goal is to be comfortable… not weighed down.
Here’s exactly what I personally wear. First, the base layer. A CHL Performance sweater made with Polartec Power Wool, which dries quickly, helps reduce odors, and offers excellent breathability. Its lightweight feel, flat seams, and stretchy fit ensure complete freedom of movement.
Next, for the mid layer, I use the Montserrat 2.0 jacket. It’s the best piece I own. Extremely versatile, highly breathable, and comfortable, it comes with me on outings here in the province as well as on higher summits elsewhere. A true must-have!
For the outer shell that protects me from the elements—rain, snow, hail, and wind—I go with the Pinacle, a lightweight, waterproof, and once again highly breathable jacket. That’s the key takeaway here. You want the moisture produced by your body to escape as efficiently as possible through each layer. That’s why you should never cut corners when it comes to product quality!
You can also add an insulated jacket to your pack for upper-layer warmth during stops. Always handy for longer breaks or when stopping for a snack.
As temperatures rise, I gradually lighten things up. The shell and mid layer come off, and I keep just a base layer topped with my Gaspé shirt—the one I wear from late spring, all summer long, and into fall. Eventually, even the base layer goes, leaving only the shirt, which I can easily adjust by rolling up the sleeves or opening a few buttons.
Spring hiking clothing
Hike responsibly from the start of the season
Spring is also the most vulnerable time for trails. The ground is saturated with water, vegetation is slowly coming back to life, and every step leaves a deeper impression than in summer. This is where our role as hikers becomes crucial.
Stay on the marked trails, even if they’re muddy. Avoid bypassing difficult sections, as they widen ruts and accelerate erosion. Sometimes, accept that you might have to turn back or change your plans. It’s not always perfect… but that’s part of hiking in the spring, too. And in the end, those little actions make a real difference for the rest of the season. Are you a pro… or not? Choose your side!
My favorite trails early in the season (with water!)
Chute‑aux‑Rats — Matawinie (Lanaudière)
🌱 Why it’s perfect early in the season
The trail runs alongside the Noire River for several stretches, and in the spring, the flow becomes impressive. Chute-aux-Rats literally roars—a powerful yet accessible spectacle.
🥾 Hiker level
Intermediate (a few climbs, occasionally technical terrain)
❤️ What I especially love
The sense of isolation and the raw power of the river. You really feel nature in motion.
⚠️ Seasonal tip
Take your time on wet sections—some roots get very slippery.
Personal note:
A place where spring doesn’t go unnoticed. I remember stopping here for a long time, just listening to the river, unable to leave right away.
Parc des Chutes‑Monte‑à‑Peine‑et‑des‑Dalles — Sainte‑Mélanie (Lanaudière)
🌱 Why it’s perfect early in the season
Three waterfalls along the same trail network, with several footbridges. In the spring, the water flow is at its peak—it’s lively, noisy, and spectacular.
🥾 Hiker level
Beginner to intermediate (several loops available)
❤️ What I especially love
The constant proximity to the river and the variety of viewpoints. You never get bored.
⚠️ Seasonal tip
Ideal for a gradual hike—choose a shorter loop if the ground is still muddy.
Personal note:
A lot of scenery for just a few kilometers. Every time I go there in the spring, I feel like the river is telling me something different, and I feel inspired to write poetry.
Chute Delaney — Vallée Bras‑du‑Nord (Portneuf)
🌱 Why it’s perfect early in the season
Accessible relatively early in the season, this trail leads to an impressive waterfall that reaches its full power in the spring as the snow melts. The high flow completely transforms the atmosphere of the site. It’s tall and impressive.
🥾 Hiker level
Beginner / Family
❤️ What I especially love
The ease of access combined with an instant “wow” factor, perfect for a first real family outing of the season.
⚠️ Seasonal tip
Go on a weekday if possible—the spot gets crowded as soon as the first nice days arrive.
Personal note:
The kind of place that makes you want to come back right away. This is often where I realize that the season has truly begun, before heading further afield for more hiking, as there are plenty of options here.
🎥 Here’s one of my hikes in this area:
Watch the video on YouTube
Sentier et boucle des Chutes Croches — Mont‑Tremblant (Laurentides)
🌱 Why it’s perfect early in the season
A series of consecutive waterfalls along the Croche River. In the spring, each section becomes a surprise thanks to the high water flow. It’s less than 1 km to reach a viewing platform, though the trail can be extended up to 13.2 km.
🥾 Hiker level
Intermediate to advanced
❤️ What I especially love
The rhythm of the trail, always accompanied by the sound of water. You move along with the river and its meanders.
⚠️ Seasonal tip
Bring waterproof boots—some sections can be very wet and muddy.
Personal note:
A hike that flows at the same pace as the season. I’ve even slowed down on purpose, eyes closed, just to linger longer with the sound of the water in my mind.
Chutes de la rivière Sainte-Anne
Saint-Onésime-d’Ixworth (Bas-Saint-Laurent)
🌱 Why it’s perfect early in the season
Less well-known than other sites, this area becomes particularly appealing in the spring as the river’s flow increases. The waterfalls grow more powerful and offer a beautiful vantage point in a setting that’s still peaceful at this time of year.
🥾 Hiker level
Beginner to intermediate / leisurely walk in the first section
❤️ What I especially love
The secluded nature of the place. It feels like stumbling upon a well-kept secret, far from the crowds of more popular sites. A spot carpeted with moss and mushrooms by late summer.
⚠️ Seasonal tip
Check local conditions before heading out—access may vary depending on snowmelt and trail conditions.
Personal note:
A peaceful spot where spring unfolds in silence… except for the sound of water and birds. One of those places where you tell yourself you’re glad you made the trip, even if you were hesitant when you set out.
You can watch a video of my hike there on YouTube.
Starting strong to better enjoy the season
The first hikes of the year have something special about them. They’re not always perfect. But they are essential. They’re the ones that bring back the rhythm. That helps reset our bearings. That reconnects us with the simple pleasure of being outside. Starting the season well isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing just enough… at the right time. Taking it slow. Observing. Adapting.
Because in the end, a well-started season is one you want to live all the way through… to the end of the trail!
To keep the inspiration going, also discover hikes leading to stunning waterfalls.
Top hike /\ !!!
To learn more about the blogger: alexislerandonneur.com
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