In Lanaudière, the Route Bleue showcases the full beauty of our waterways. From the waters of the St. Lawrence River to the islands, wetlands, and the Maskinongé River, it offers more than a dozen trails that let you discover the region from a completely different perspective.
There’s something special about exploring a region from the water.
The pace slows down, the scenery changes, you catch glimpses of places you’d never see from the road, and above all, for a few hours, you completely forget the noise of everyday life.
For several years now, the Route bleue has offered an extensive network of navigable routes throughout Quebec, allowing people to explore lakes, rivers, and the St. Lawrence River by kayak, canoe, and stand-up paddleboard (SUP). From one region to the next, it invites paddlers of all skill levels to explore diverse landscapes through established, safe, and carefully documented itineraries.
In Lanaudière, the Route Bleue showcases the full richness of our waterways. Between the waters of the St. Lawrence River, the islands, the wetlands, and the Maskinongé River, it offers more than a dozen routes that let you discover the region from a completely different perspective.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan your next getaway on the Route Bleue in Lanaudière.
WHAT IS THE ROUTE BLEUE?
Before choosing a route, it’s helpful to understand what the Route Bleue actually is.
It’s not a single route, but rather a network of waterways developed throughout Quebec to allow kayakers, canoeists, and stand-up paddleboarders to navigate more safely.
Each route is evaluated based on various criteria, including difficulty, paddling conditions, access points to the water, parking, and nearby services. Detailed route guides help you plan your outing before you even set out. In Lanaudière, the Route Bleue features about ten routes that let you explore both the St. Lawrence River and calmer stretches of other rivers.
WHY EXPLORE LANAUDIÈRE FROM THE WATER?
Lanaudière is often known for its mountains, forests, and regional parks. Yet its waterways offer a whole new perspective.
Paddling in Lanaudière means gliding past the islands of the St. Lawrence River, observing the birds that inhabit the wetlands, crossing small, peaceful bays, or following the current of a tree-lined river. Depending on the route you choose, you can go from an urban setting to a much wilder landscape in just a few strokes of the paddle.
It’s also an activity that lends itself equally well to a few-hour outing or a full day, with stops in riverside villages, at beaches, or in parks.
THE ROUTE BLEUE TRAILS IN LANAUDIÈRE
The St. Lawrence River: Spectacular Panoramas
If you love the great outdoors, the river area is probably the most impressive. The various routes allow you to explore the areas around Repentigny, Saint-Sulpice, Lavaltrie, and Lanoraie, as well as several islands accessible only by water.
The landscapes change constantly throughout the day, and the sunsets here are particularly magnificent.
The Maskinongé River: Perfect for Slowing Down
For a more intimate atmosphere, opt for the Maskinongé River instead. The current is generally calmer there, and the scenery invites you to observe nature rather than cover long distances.
It’s an excellent choice for those who want to take their time or try kayaking or canoeing for the first time.
Paddling on the L’Assomption River: A Gentle Outing
If you’re looking for an accessible outing where you can take the time to enjoy the scenery rather than battle the waves, the L’Assomption River is the perfect choice. Its calm waters and gentle current make it an ideal spot for a first-time kayaking, canoeing, or stand-up paddleboarding experience.
The Mille Îles River: A Nature Getaway Just a Stone’s Throw from the City
On the border between Terrebonne and Laval, the Mille Îles River offers an experience where nature quickly reclaims its place. Despite its proximity to major urban centers, you can paddle here in a peaceful setting, amidst islands, marshes, and wooded banks, with a good chance of spotting herons, turtles, and other species that call this rich natural environment home.
WHICH ROUTE SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?
The Route Bleue network offers routes suitable for all types of paddlers. To compare itineraries and plan your trip, visit the official Route Bleue website HERE. The route descriptions provide quick access to all the important information: distance, duration, difficulty level, launch sites, parking, interactive maps, services, and safety guidelines.
CAN YOU RENT A KAYAK OR A STAND-UP PADDLEBOARD?
Good news: you don’t need to own your own equipment to enjoy the Route Bleue. Several companies in Lanaudière offer kayak, canoe, and stand-up paddleboard rentals near the Route Bleue routes.
Some even offer guided tours, which are ideal for exploring an area for the first time. You’ll find HERE several companies that offer water sports equipment rentals.
TIPS FOR PREPARING FOR YOUR OUTING ON THE ROUTE BLEUE
Before you go:
- Check the official route guide.
- Check the weather and wind conditions.
- Always wear a life jacket.
- Let a friend or family member know your itinerary.
- Bring water and sunscreen.
- Store your personal belongings in a waterproof bag.
- Respect the natural environment and wildlife.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can you paddleboard the Route Bleue?
Yes. Several routes are suitable for paddleboarding when conditions are favorable.
Is it accessible to beginners?
Yes. Some routes are particularly well-suited for a first outing. We recommend always checking the difficulty level indicated on the official route guide before setting out.
When is the best time to enjoy the Route Bleue?
The season generally runs from late spring through early fall. The months of June through September usually offer the best conditions.
Do I need to make a reservation?
The routes are open to the public, but it’s recommended to reserve your boat in advance if you plan to rent equipment.
Sometimes all it takes is a few strokes of the paddle to completely change your perspective. With its rivers, streams, and natural surroundings lining the routes, the Route Bleue offers a unique way to explore Lanaudière at your own pace.
