Mount Royal Cross Montreal
An iconic, illuminated steel cross atop Mount Royal, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Montreal.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour glow & city lights
Mount Royal Cross Montreal
Best Time
Golden hour glow & city lights
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic, illuminated steel cross atop Mount Royal, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Montreal.
"The view from the top is stunning, especially at sunset!"
🎯 Avoid Town of Mount Royal
Ensure you're heading to Mount Royal Park, not the separate municipality of Town of Mount Royal.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The trek to the cross involves steps and trails; wear comfortable shoes for the hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Illuminated Cross
Northeastern peak of Mount Royal
A towering 103-foot steel crucifix, illuminated at night, a significant symbol of Montreal.
Panoramic City Views
Near the Cross
Breathtaking vistas of the Montreal skyline, especially captivating during sunset and at night.
Historic Landmark
Mount Royal Park
A testament to Montreal's history, first marked by a cross in 1643, with the current structure dating to 1924.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to the Cross
Navigating Mount Royal Park
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Easiest way up Mont Royal?
🎯 Avoid Town of Mount Royal
Ensure you're heading to Mount Royal Park, not the separate municipality of Town of Mount Royal.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The trek to the cross involves steps and trails; wear comfortable shoes for the hike.
Best approach/trails to do St. Joseph Oratory - Mount Royal?
Anyone from Montreal? Is Mount Royal really a hike or just an uphill walk?
📸 Best Photo Spots
Go early to avoid groups and get unobstructed shots of the cross and city views.
💡 Evening Illumination
The cross is LED-illuminated, offering a beautiful sight after dark.
Mount Royal Question
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Avoid Town of Mount Royal
Ensure you're heading to Mount Royal Park, not the separate municipality of Town of Mount Royal.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The trek to the cross involves steps and trails; wear comfortable shoes for the hike.
📸 Best Photo Spots
Go early to avoid groups and get unobstructed shots of the cross and city views.
💡 Evening Illumination
The cross is LED-illuminated, offering a beautiful sight after dark.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Mount Royal Cross for its iconic status and the breathtaking panoramic views of Montreal it offers, especially at sunset and night. The historical significance and the manageable hike are also frequently highlighted as positives. Some visitors note that crowds can gather, particularly in the evenings, and suggest visiting earlier for a more serene experience.
"No tickets needed to enter this part of the park. We took the double decker bus tour and got off at this location. You have a great view that overlooks the city of Montreal.
From here, you can take a ten minute hike up the hill to see the cross. Not a crazy challenge, but there are a few steps. The metal cross is a piece of artwork that you have to see.
There are several other trails of you wanted to spend some time exploring more of the landscape.
There are many other trailers"
Marshall Azar
"We went to the Mont Royal Cross around 8 PM.. Even though it was early spring and a bit humid the 15 minute trek to the cross was absolutely worth it ! no lights along the way, but the view of the skyline at the top was stunning."
Mansi Satarkar
"Great hike to the cross. Try and go early as sometimes there are teenagers hanging out preventing us from taking nice photos."
Jason Raina
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the Mount Royal Cross by car, bus, or by hiking. Several trails lead to the summit. The 80 bus stops near the park entrance, and from there, it's a hike. Be mindful not to confuse it with the 'Town of Mount Royal' municipality.
Limited parking is available within Mount Royal Park, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Consider public transport or ride-sharing.
Yes, the STM bus route 80 stops near the park, providing access. From the bus stop, you'll need to walk or hike to the cross.
The hike is generally considered moderate, with some steps involved. It's a 10-15 minute trek from the main viewpoints.
Access points are available from various sides of the mountain. The Kondiaronk Belvedere offers great initial views and is a popular starting point for reaching the cross.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to enter Mount Royal Park or to see the Mount Royal Cross. It's a public park.
Mount Royal Park is generally open year-round from dawn until dusk. The cross itself is visible at all times, but illuminated at night.
No, Mount Royal Park is free to enter for all visitors.
Yes, the park is accessible at night, and the cross is LED-illuminated, making it a beautiful sight after dark.
While the park is generally open, be mindful of any posted park rules and regulations.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset offers beautiful golden hour light for cityscapes and the cross. Clear evenings provide stunning views of the illuminated cross and city lights.
You can capture panoramic shots of the Montreal skyline, close-ups of the illuminated cross, and scenic views of the park landscape.
Drone usage in national and provincial parks often has restrictions. It's best to check the official park regulations for Mount Royal Park regarding drone operation.
A wide-angle lens is great for cityscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture details of the cross. A tripod is useful for low-light photography at dusk or night.
The area around the cross itself offers direct views, and the Kondiaronk Belvedere provides a broader perspective of the city.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
Mount Royal Park offers numerous walking and hiking trails, picnic areas, Beaver Lake (Lac aux Castors), and the Smith House visitor center.
Allow about 1-2 hours for the visit, including the hike up, time at the cross, and enjoying the city views.
Restroom facilities are available within Mount Royal Park, particularly near popular viewpoints and the Smith House.
Some areas of the park are accessible, but the hike to the cross involves uneven terrain and steps. Check park maps for accessible routes.
The current steel cross was erected in 1924, replacing an earlier wooden cross from 1643, placed by Montreal's founder as thanks for sparing the city from a flood.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Symbolism and History of the Cross
Over the decades, the cross has undergone several reconstructions and enhancements, most notably the installation of LED lighting, which transforms it into a beacon visible across the city at night. This modern illumination contrasts with its historical roots, creating a unique blend of old and new. The cross serves as a constant reminder of the city's founding principles and its enduring faith, making it a focal point for reflection and a significant piece of Montreal's heritage.
Experiencing Mount Royal Park
For a more relaxed experience, Beaver Lake (Lac aux Castors) is a popular spot for picnicking, leisurely strolls, and in winter, ice skating. The Smith House, a charming chalet-style building, serves as a visitor center and offers historical exhibits about the park and the mountain. Whether you're seeking an invigorating hike, a peaceful picnic, or simply a breathtaking view, Mount Royal Park provides a multifaceted experience that complements the visit to the cross.
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