Covering an area of 223 hectares, the refuge faunique Marguerite-D’Youville has been officially protected in perpetuity since 2010. The wildlife sanctuary’s enormous richness includes a wide variety of ecosystems, such as marshes, wetlands, fallow land and maple and oak stands. There are eight kilometres of trails much to the delight of outdoor enthusiasts, families, bird watchers and photographers. A fee is charged to access the wildlife sanctuary, which is reinvested in maintaining the site and also in upgrading facilities and services.

L’un des attraits de ce riche habitat demeure l’observation des oiseaux. Halte migratoire d’importance, plus de 240 espèces d’oiseaux y ont été observés. De nombreux mammifères s’y promènent librement, dont les Cerfs de Virginie que l’on observe en grand nombre. La flore y est aussi très riche et diversifiée et propose des paysages époustouflants, qui évoluent au fil des écosystèmes rencontrés.

Hikers can add to their outdoor experience by using an audio guide that provides information not only on the island’s history, but also on the wildlife and plants found throughout the site. In addition, the sanctuary’s digital rally, designed for families, is a free mobile application that is both a fun and educational way to discover the area!

Access to the Marguerite-D’Youville wildlife sanctuary, whether in summer or winter, is through the Pavillon de l’île. The site is open year round, from sunrise to sunset. Trails are available to hikers and snowshoers. However, going off trail or bringing dogs or other domestic animals is not allowed.