Listen to the rush of water as we arrive at Parc-nature du Ruisseau-De-Montigny. This nature park offers a refreshing escape within Montreal. Today we will discover its story.
Parc-nature du Ruisseau-De-Montigny sits in the Riviere-des-Prairies neighbourhood. It is part of the Riviere-des-Prairies Pointe-aux-Trembles borough. A small section extends into Anjou.
This park is a linear green space. It is nestled between Perras Boulevard and Henri-Bourassa Boulevard. The park’s name comes from the stream. This stream flows through it from south to north. It empties into the Riviere des Prairies.
The stream has a beautiful waterfall. The water drops about 3 meters over limestone rock. Imagine the sound and sight of that natural cascade.
Our journey through Parc-nature du Ruisseau-De-Montigny covers 3.3 kilometers of trails. We will also find four small islands dotting the landscape. These islands add to the park’s unique charm.
Keep an eye out for wildlife. The park is home to 62 bird species. Also expect to spot a dozen mammal species. Nature thrives here.
But it wasn’t always this way. Before 2005 this area was used as a waste site. A major cleanup was needed. The stream and woodland were cleared of years of accumulated waste.
In 2005, Parc-nature du Ruisseau-De-Montigny was opened. It started with an area of 22 hectares. By 2011, it expanded to 30 hectares. The city of Montreal has plans to further enhance the park. They want to improve public access. They also aim to protect it from impacts of the Olivier-Charbonneau Bridge.
The islands within Parc-nature du Ruisseau-De-Montigny are significant. They serve as breeding grounds. Muskrats, great blue herons, ducks and fish all reproduce here.
The park also boasts diverse plant and animal life. Look for the red ash tree. Try to spot the brown snake. These are just a few of the species you might encounter.
Also discover fossils dating back to the Champlain Sea. Parc-nature du Ruisseau-De-Montigny is a place of natural beauty. It offers a glimpse into Montreal’s past.