Lachine Canal Montreal
A historic waterway transformed into a vibrant urban park, perfect for cycling, walking, and enjoying Montreal's scenic beauty.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Lachine Canal Montreal
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic waterway transformed into a vibrant urban park, perfect for cycling, walking, and enjoying Montreal's scenic beauty.
"Beautiful path for a walk, running, or biking!"
🚴♀️ Rent a BIXI bike
Grab a BIXI bike for an easy and affordable way to explore the canal's length .
🧺 Pack a picnic
Enjoy a meal by the water with benches and tables available; Atwater Market is a great spot to stock up .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lachine Canal Bike Path
Along the canal
A scenic and flat path perfect for cycling, jogging, or a leisurely stroll with plenty of green spaces.

Atwater Market
Near the canal
A bustling public market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and a great spot for a picnic or refuel.

Saint-Ambroise Terrace
Along the canal
A popular pit stop for a drink or lunch with a view, offering a fun atmosphere by the water.

Pink House of Saint-Henri
Near the old Canada Malting Plant
An intriguing guerrilla art installation, a vibrant pink landmark that has become a unique photo opportunity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit for Activities
Know Before You Go: Swimming & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚴♀️ Rent a BIXI bike
Grab a BIXI bike for an easy and affordable way to explore the canal's length.
🧺 Pack a picnic
Enjoy a meal by the water with benches and tables available; Atwater Market is a great spot to stock up.
🚫 No swimming allowed
The water quality isn't safe for swimming; opt for kayaking or paddleboarding instead.
💧 Limited amenities
Be aware of limited water fountains and restrooms on some paths; plan accordingly.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚴♀️ Rent a BIXI bike
Grab a BIXI bike for an easy and affordable way to explore the canal's length.
🧺 Pack a picnic
Enjoy a meal by the water with benches and tables available; Atwater Market is a great spot to stock up.
🚫 No swimming allowed
The water quality isn't safe for swimming; opt for kayaking or paddleboarding instead.
💧 Limited amenities
Be aware of limited water fountains and restrooms on some paths; plan accordingly.
🎨 Discover the Pink House
Don't miss the unique guerrilla art installation near the old Canada Malting Plant.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Lachine Canal's scenic beauty and its suitability for outdoor activities like biking and walking. The path is well-maintained and offers a pleasant escape within the city. However, some note the limited availability of amenities like restrooms and water fountains along certain stretches.
"I had a spectacular 7 mile run through the Lachine canal to Parc Gadbois from downtown Montreal. There are no water fountains or bathrooms along the northern side of the canal. You can stop at Atwater market to refuel or perhaps have a bathroom break. I'd love to go back and run for a longer distance further down the canal."
carlos borges
"Good path with trees for shade. And easy level ride. Very straightforward, so it's not too interesting."
Ev Maz
"Beautiful path for a walk,running, or biking!"
Khorshid Yaghmai
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lachine Canal is accessible via various points in Montreal. You can reach it by public transport, with several bus routes stopping nearby. Cycling is also a popular option, with dedicated paths connecting to the city's network.
For those driving, parking can be found in designated areas, though it might be limited during peak times.Yes, parking is available near the Lachine Canal, particularly around Atwater Market and other access points. However, it can get busy, especially on weekends and during summer events. Some restaurants along the canal also offer parking.
The main paths along the Lachine Canal are generally paved and relatively flat, making them accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. However, some smaller side paths or areas might be uneven.
Popular entry points include near Atwater Market, which offers amenities and a lively atmosphere, and various access points further west towards Parc Gadbois. The choice depends on where you want to start your walk, run, or bike ride.
The canal path is quite straightforward and well-marked, making it easy to navigate for cycling and walking.
Signage helps guide you along the main route.🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Lachine Canal and its surrounding park areas are free to access. You don't need any tickets to walk, bike, or enjoy the scenery.
Access to the canal itself is free. However, if you plan to rent bikes (like BIXI), boats, or kayaks, there will be rental fees associated with those activities.
The Lachine Canal is an outdoor public space and is generally accessible year-round, from dawn till dusk. Specific facilities like markets or restaurants along the canal will have their own operating hours.
Yes, paddleboarding is permitted on the Lachine Canal. Some users mention that permit fees can be waived during certain periods.
Atwater Market is a public market and does not have an entrance fee. You can freely browse the stalls and enjoy the atmosphere.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy biking, running, walking, picnicking, and people-watching. Boat tours, kayaking, and paddleboarding are also popular options.
The canal is a great spot for outdoor recreation.Absolutely! The canal offers a long, scenic, and relatively flat path perfect for extended walks or runs. You can cover many miles and explore different sections.
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes along the Lachine Canal, including popular spots like Saint Ambroise Terrace and newer establishments like La Table d'André.
Atwater Market also offers food options.No, swimming in the Lachine Canal is not advised due to water quality concerns.
Look for scenic views of the water, bridges, and the unique Pink House of Saint-Henri.
The industrial architecture and green spaces also make for great shots.📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful soft light for photography. Weekday mornings can also provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
The Lachine Canal is ideal for landscape, urban, and lifestyle photography. Capture the interplay of nature, industrial heritage, and people enjoying the outdoors.
Definitely! The mysterious Pink House of Saint-Henri is a must-see for unique shots.
Also, look for interesting bridges, boats, and reflections on the water.A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide scenes and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the expansive canal views. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance water and sky.
Drone usage is subject to regulations. It's essential to check Transport Canada's rules and local bylaws regarding drone operation in urban and park areas before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚴♀️ Active Adventurers
🚶♀️ Leisurely Strollers & Picnickers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Lachine Canal by Bike
Beyond the main path, the canal system connects to other cycling routes, allowing for longer excursions. Remember to be mindful of pedestrians and other cyclists, especially during peak hours. The path provides a fantastic way to experience the city's blend of urban life and natural beauty, passing by historical industrial sites and lush green spaces.
A Culinary Journey Along the Canal
Several other establishments cater to canal-goers, providing great food with scenic views. Pasdeneige is highlighted for its bright, open space overlooking the canal, serving dishes like schnitzel and caramel doughnuts, and is noted as being accommodating for families with small children. These culinary stops offer perfect opportunities to refuel and soak in the canal's atmosphere.
Historical Significance and Art
Adding a modern artistic flair to the historical landscape is the Pink House of Saint-Henri. This intriguing guerrilla art installation, originally painted bright pink, has become a beloved landmark near the old Canada Malting Plant. Over time, other artists have contributed to its evolving appearance, making it a unique and colorful spot for visitors to discover and photograph.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit