Parc d’environnement naturel de Sutton: A True Nature-Friendly Destination

The Parc d’environnement naturel de Sutton (PENS) is a vast natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts. We spoke to Michelle Besré, a PENS coordinator, to learn more about what measures have been carried out to protect this precious space.

How did the PENS come to adopt a sustainable development approach?

Michelle Besré, Communications, Reception and Customer Service Coordinator, explains that the event of the pandemic prompted a genuine reflection around the importance of working towards truly sustainable development projects. “Throughout this period, hiking really went mainstream and everyone was getting into it! This, in itself, is a good thing, but we were now dealing with people who weren’t necessarily very familiar with the rules of conduct in the great outdoors, not to mention the fact that visitor traffic was skyrocketing.”

A four-season park
Credits GouvQc_Ian Roberge – Caroline Lachapelle – Rémy Ogez

What are the key sustainable initiatives that you’ve implemented?

“Firstly, on busy trails, a one-way hiking system was introduced to prevent trails from widening and deteriorating prematurely,” answers Michelle Besré. “As well, dogs are only allowed on some of the trails, thereby helping to protect endangered flora and fauna.”

“As for how the trail network is developed, the PENS prioritizes the use of local materials such as wood and stone. Illustrated signs have been put up by the trailheads and in the shelters to raise awareness with visitors about adopting responsible practices. The PENS also posts these practices, as well as several safety tips on its website. She clarifies her point with examples such as “Don’t walk off the trails, don’t feed the wildlife, respect other hikers, etc.”

Furthermore, to encourage visitors to explore less-hiked trails than, for example, the Round Top, the website offers several different route suggestions we normally wouldn’t have thought of trying.

In 2023, the park purchased a Joëlette specialized, all-terrain, one-wheeled chair. This vehicle was designed to allow people with reduced mobility or motor disabilities to head out and explore any type of terrain. It requires at least two accompanying guides (or pilots) to operate. At the P.E.N.S., our volunteers are proud and ready to take charge of this accompaniment, making these inclusive outings possible. Indeed, a great way to promote both nature accessibility and social inclusion.

Finally, the park organizes a wide range of awareness raising and educational activities throughout the year. Among others, themed ornithology, mycology, full moon, photographic, and poetry hikes… These outings allow visitors to enjoy our forest trails from several new perspectives while making them more conscious of the importance of conserving our natural environments.

Programme Jeunes-Natures – randonnée au clair de lune – atelier d’identification des arbres. Photos tirées de Facebook

Are visitors respectful of the rules?

“Most visitors abide by them. Education and raising awareness are key aspects of our values and areas we’re constantly striving to develop, for example through social media,” states Michelle Besré.

As part of its educational mission, the PENS also organizes several events throughout the year. For example, in line with its commitment to the Youth Nature Outings, students attending Brome-Missisquoi and Potton schools are invited to come and explore the park for a day. Plus, many youth camps are organized for children aiming to raise their consciousness relating to the natural environment all the while developing their interests in outdoor activities.

Is the PENS planning more upcoming projects?

“Yes, we’re presently working on a few ideas! A project we hold very close to our heart is to build a reception centre to welcome groups, such as schools,” says Michelle Besré. “We already have groups coming to the PENS, but they have nowhere to warm up if it’s cold, or to have a meal if they want to eat indoors.”

Planning a Visit to the PENS? Some Good-to-Know Information.

• To access the PENS, you’ll need to buy a day pass either online or in person at the admission kiosk.
• The park is open year-round except during the spring thaw period, which usually runs from mid-April to mid-May.
• The park offers trails for all hiking levels.
• Several trails allow dogs.
• In winter, you’ll need crampons or snowshoes to safely enjoy the trails. You can rent these onsite as well.
• The PENS proposes ride-sharing options through the Amigo Express and Green Play Allons covoiturage platforms. This way they’re not only promoting sustainable mobility, but people who don’t own a means of transportation are given the opportunity to access the park’s trails as well.

Are you hoping to discover some amazing views? The Boucle du Dos de l’Orignal trail loop offers several outcrops and openings overlooking the region! Along the way, this more than 8-kilometre you’ll enjoy views overlooking the Mont SUTTON ski resort (from the summit of Les Hollandais), Ruiter Valley and Mount Pinacle, to name but a few highlights.