We enjoyed a drive up to the observation point at Mont-Royal in the park of the same name. There was parking at the observation point for $1.75/hr (metered), but we only stayed for a few minutes so we didn't have to pay. The view is definitely worth the drive up. You can see a panoramic view of Montreal sprawled out before you. Especially on a sunny and clear day you really can see it all. There were also coin-operated telescopes for kids or people who want to take a closer look. This is a great activity to do on the way to something else if you are in the neighborhood. People who are more athletic can hike up to the observation point.

The observation point can be reached by car or bus on Camillien-Houde road. According to the guidebook, the park can be reached on foot by taking one of the "stairs section" (one of four streets: Redpath, du Musée, de la Montagne or Drummond north of Docteur-Penfield), but we didn't try this.

Our walk to the top of Mount Royal: We left the hotel (Hilton Bonaventure) about 10:30am and made it to the top of Mount Royal around noon. This did include some dawdling at the Chalet on Mount Royal, which has the best view of the city. One can hike up higher on Mount Royal to the steel cross, but there are really no views. The toughest hiking is in the first half of the climb; it is pretty easy after that.

We then walked down the Mount; it took 20 minutes to walk down and into the city.

I decided to take an amble up to Mont Royal but didnt intend spending 3 hours walking around. I entered the park from close to L'hopital de Victoire off Avenue des pins ouest. I climbed several small stone steps before I got to the main footpath which was no mean feet as I found myself knee deep in snow. I made my way along the path and could of followed the nice gentle root to the summit but decided to take the 200 steps up to the top and the lookout. As I am not the most fit of people I found myself stopping frequently to 'take pictures' whilst people pasted me running up them!

Once I reached the top of the steps, I was greeted by a snowman which I nearly fell over when I slipped in the snow and the most amazing view of Montreal. 'Le Chalet' has a viewing point for visitors and on a good day you get a fine view of Montreal and the surrounding scenery. In comparision to the Olympic tower, I would say this is better. I then followed the path around the park. There is a museum on the wildlife and history of the park at Maison Smith. It also has toilets and a giftshop selling film, drinks and gifts. The footpath will lead you past the broadcast tower, Le Croix (a large metal cross which is lit at night) and Lac aux Castors which is used for ice skating. Whilst I was there I saw many people taking advantage of the snow for skiing and tubing. Equipment cannot be hired, so you have to take your own. Bird feeding stations are situated around the parc for birdwatchers. If you venture up to the park in Winter make sure you take some warm clothes expecially gloves and suitable walking boots/shoes. The windchill can be quite extreme in certain parts of the park. Oh and dont forget the sunblock!

Beautiful park and great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of Montreal. The 200 steps were worth it.