Chemin de la Diable — Réserve faunique Rouge-Matawin Interior Forestry Loop

The Rivière du Diable drainage inside the Réserve faunique Rouge-Matawin sits close enough to Montreal that weekenders underestimate it — and the trail has a way of correcting that mistake quickly. The circuit departs from the reserve’s main access point off Route 321 near Saint-Donat, pushing north along managed forestry roads through dense boreal mixed forest before dropping into the river corridor where the real fun begins. The Diable crossings after heavy rain are not casual — water levels shift fast in this watershed and the log-deck culverts on secondary spurs have a habit of washing out mid-summer. Moose density in this reserve is among the highest in southern Quebec; slow down at dusk or you’ll meet one through your windshield.

The loop is accessible to well-equipped high-clearance trucks and SUVs in dry summer conditions but becomes demanding after rain. Mud tires or aggressive all-terrains are strongly recommended. A recovery kit — traction boards, hi-lift, tow strap — is not optional on the northern spurs. Fuel at Saint-Donat before entry; the reserve has no services. Camping is available at designated reserve sites (reservation required through SÉPAQ) and some dispersed zones on Crown forestry roads outside the reserve boundary. Best season is late June through October. Cell coverage is nonexistent inside the reserve. The SÉPAQ access fee applies at the main gatehouse.