Nestled atop Montreal’s Mount Royal, Beaver Lake (Lac aux Castors) is a man-made marvel with a history as rich as its surroundings. Built in 1938 on a former swamp, the lake owes its name to a beaver dam discovered during construction. Shaped like a four-leaf clover and designed by Frederick Todd, this serene basin has been a gathering spot for Montrealers year-round ever since.

In warmer months, the grassy lawns surrounding the lake become a great spot for picnics and barbecues. Paddleboats drift lazily across its waters, mingling with ducks and the occasional swan, while the vibrant fall foliage transforms the area into a postcard-worthy scene. Winter, however, is when Beaver Lake shines as its frozen basin is coated in ice—once a natural skating rink, it’s since been replaced by an adjacent artificial one, and the slopes above it are perfect for tobogganing.

The mid-century modern pavilion nearby, designed by Hazen Sise and Guy Desbarats, houses a café and rental facilities for sleds, snowshoes, and more. Renovated with care, it has earned architectural accolades for preserving its heritage while adding modern functionality.