Enjoying Fall: 5 Outdoor Activities in Laval

Fall, just like Laval, never ceases to amaze us. Every year, it returns as an invitation to come together. Beneath the trees ablaze with color, surrounded by the scent of apples and the crisp air that brings a rosy glow to our cheeks, the season sets the perfect stage for sharing special moments with family and friends. The days are getting shorter, but the opportunities to gather outdoors and enjoy Laval’s autumn beauty are multiplying. To inspire you, here are the ideal outdoor activities for your fall get-togethers. 

Get some fresh air  

Close your eyes for a moment and imagine the crunch of leaves under your feet, the scent of damp earth, and the light filtering through a canopy of orange foliage. Laval, this destination we think we know, still holds some true hidden treasures. Among them: the pre-Columbian beech forest of Bois Papineau, a natural gem dating back to pre-colonial times. Its 6.9 kilometers of trails wind through a rare ecosystem where every turn seems to lead to a postcard-perfect scene. Whether alone or with company, it’s the perfect getaway to slow down and enjoy the fall colors.

And since the wood is located just a few minutes from the Insulaires Microbrasseurs, it’s the perfect opportunity to extend the moment by enjoying a local beer on their heated patio after the walk. The perfect spot to recharge your batteries, share your impressions of the walk, and let the friendly atmosphere prolong the magic of nature.

Share a colorful day 

Sometimes it doesn’t take much to feel like you’re on a trip: a wool scarf, a hot cup of coffee in your hands, and a breathtaking view. The Laval’s riverbanks, with their panoramic views of the water, offer a setting worthy of the most beautiful fall photos. At Olivier-Charbonneau Riverbank or the Berge des Baigneurs, you can sit on a bench, let the wind play in your hair, and watch the tranquil dance of falling leaves. Here, the noise of the city fades away, replaced by the lapping of the water and the whisper of the wind in the branches.  

And to round out your getaway, there’s nothing quite like stopping by the gourmet shop Les Minettes, where local specialties and comforting aromas extend the day’s enjoyment. Savor the homemade pink lemonade, take a bite of a still-warm ham-and-butter baguette, and let your gaze wander through the charming, bustling streets of Old Sainte-Rose.

Take a big bite out of autumn

Autumn has its own scent: that of freshly picked apples. The orchard then becomes a playground and a feast for the senses, where you stroll with a bag in hand, searching for the perfect variety. At Verger Gibouleau, the 10,000 apple trees heavy with fruit invite young and old alike to bite into juicy apples, filling their baskets and their hearts. 

When the fields are ablaze with their final colors and the baskets are overflowing with produce, it’s time to head to the farm. At the Forget Farm, the children laughas as they riding the families watchthethe animals and friendseenjoying fruit picked on the spot. It’s a feast for the senses, where the scent of straw mingles with that of fresh from from the stand, and where every smile seems to capture a little of the season’s warmth. 

Experience the season in the heart of the city 

What if you could experience autumn right in the heart of the city? The Station Momo transforms downtown into a place for gathering and relaxation, where the crisp autumn air blends with the urban buzz. It’s the perfect spot to get together for a family evening or happy hour and discover the art installations and cultural events. It’s easy to stop by theEspace Montmorency to share an al fresco meal, discover a new restaurant, or simply soak up the neighborhood’s vibrant atmosphere in the central square. An ideal spot to enjoy fall without leaving the heart of Laval.