Devil’s Mountain
Devil’s Mountain (formerly called Mont Sir Wilfrid) is located close to Ferme-Neuve and Mont-Laurier in the Upper Laurentians. It has four peaks: the Devil, Beelzebub, the Guard and Fire Wall of the Dawn. With its 783 meters, Devil’s Mountain is the highest of the high Laurentians. Perched 783 meters above sea level, this summit offers a stunning view of the Baskatong Reservoir. The Baskatong Reservoir is a manmade lake that resulted from a dam that was built in 1927 and it is still used to generate electricity for the surrounding area. Inland sea diving is in the heart of the forest. Blue waters sparkling in the distance, the village of Ferme-Neuve, the falls of Windigo, this here is a magnificent sight to behold the sunset on the peaceful waters of the Baskatong.
One of the draws for nature lovers is the long shorelines along the reservoir; there are over two thousand eight hundred kilometers of shorelines in total. In the warmer months take advantage of the reservoir and kayak or canoe to the many different islands sprinkled throughout the lake. The lake holds over one hundred and sixty islands, so there is always plenty to explore.
Entering this protected territory means discovering a world that is full of beautiful species. Hares, chipmunks, ruffed grouse, otter, moose and deer to name a few, evolve in the middle of their boreal forest playground. One can also see some rare birds, including the turkey vulture, the bald eagle and even Bicknell’s Thrush which is a new species officially recognized in 1995.
Generally, if you want to put the odds in your favor to see the inhabitants of the forest, the best times to observe are in the morning at sunrise or at sunset.
Never forget the Rule: observe from afar, never approach the wildlife nor attempt to break their natural balance. So it is for your own safety and survival!
The Devil Mountain Regional Park houses a fascinating forest with three successive stages of vegetation.
The sugar maple-yellow birch in the valley which is the emblematic tree of Québec. With an average height of 28 meters and with an average diameter of 70 centimeters. In adulthood, it is distinguished by its golden satin bark frays into thin, curly strips.
A mixture of white birch and softwood approaching the 500 meters altitude. It is a major component of the mixed forest and needs a lot of light to thrive. Its white bark, the “mâchecoui” was widely used by Native Americans for making their canoes, kitchen utensils or to cover their shelters.
The boreal forest to the top consists of an abundance coniferous forests dominated by firs and spruces.
The Park offers four rustic campsites: Camping Aube, Camping Summit, Camping Walker and Camping Lull. Wooden platforms have been designed to make your stay very comfortable. These, to the number of 5 per campsite, are built to counter uneven terrain. The north side of the refuge is the perfect place for amateur campers and families. Log frame, Scandinavian style, a sense of well-being comes over you as you enter. For cooler evenings a wood stove will warm your heart. These shelters can accommodate up to 10 people.
Enjoy your next hike on the trails of the Regional Park Devil’s Mountain, stay overnight, relax and unwind.
