The park protects one of the most important biodiversity hotspots in the Greater Montreal area, housing several rare or endangered species.
The archipelago within the park was formed by glacial retreat, resulting in a complex system of channels and shallow marshes.
The Mille Îles River is a distributary of the Ottawa River, and its water levels fluctuate seasonally, influencing access to certain marshland trails.
The park operates a permanent wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center for injured native fauna found in the surrounding habitat.
Some of the islands within the park are restricted to preserve the nesting grounds of the map turtle, a species at risk in Quebec.
Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles is a protected wildlife sanctuary located on the Mille Îles River, focusing on the conservation of a diverse riverine ecosystem. The park encompasses an archipelago of over 100 islands and islets, many of which are accessible via watercraft. It serves as a regional hub for paddling sports, offering rental services for kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. The site features an interpretation center that provides educational exhibits on local biodiversity, including fish, reptiles, and bird species. Visitors can explore a network of trails both on land and through the river channels, which are designated as a refuge for migratory birds. The park facilitates scientific monitoring and habitat restoration programs to maintain the health of the waterway. It is recognized as a significant wetland area within the Laval region. The landscape is primarily composed of marshes, swamps, and forests along the river banks.
From the water in the heart of the archipelago during golden hour for shots of the river reflecting the dense foliage.
Check the wind conditions on the river before renting a kayak, as open channels can become challenging for beginners.
Use waterproof dry bags for electronics, as water exposure is inevitable during paddling activities.
Apply insect repellent, as the marshland environment remains highly active with mosquitoes during the summer months.
Attempting to land on islands marked with 'protected area' or 'no landing' signage, as these are critical nesting zones.
Watercraft rentals and full facility access are seasonal, generally running from mid-spring to late autumn; limited trail access in winter.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive marshland flora; do not feed wildlife; pack out all waste.
