The Laurentians Mountains (Les Laurentides) in Quebec are a dream for nature lovers. With streams running through pine-covered mountains, pristine lakes, and waterfalls surrounded by trees stretching to the sky, my short trip to this region left me wanting more.
As an added bonus you’ll find enchanting towns bursting with art galleries and studios with artists in residence.
There are plenty of lodging options in the villages, with nature paths, cultural activities, restaurants, and the gorgeous backdrop of the mountain range.
Not planning an overnight stay? You can still visit the Laurentian mountains on a day trip from Montreal or Ottawa.
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Mont-Tremblant National Park: Hiking Trails and Waterfalls
Lakes, rivers and ponds dot the mountains of Mont-Tremblant as if a bottle of blue sprinkles had toppled over a meringue cake.
First stop: the lovely town of Mont-Tremblant from where we took the road along Lac-Superieur and entered the park at the Poste d’Accueil de la Diable (La Diable sector).
We headed directly to the discovery centre and asked what trails (sentiers) could be done in a four-hour timeframe, preferably leading to scenic views, lakes or waterfalls.
Our first hike was at Sentier La Corniche (3.4 kilometres): a perfect illustration of “It’s about the journey…”.
La Corniche Trail started with a walk through a pine forest bordering a stream. The rushing water whooshed over giant boulders, creating cascades along the way.
After climbing a moderately steep hill we were rewarded with a magnificent view: the Lake Monroe (Lac-Monroe) with the Mont-Tremblant massif in the background. A gorgeous landscape shaped by glaciers, millions of years ago.
The second hike was at the La-Chute-du-Diable Trail (1.4 kilometres). The sound and sight of the stream on the side of the -mostly flat- trail chanted to me through the lush forest, up to the point where the roar announced the encounter with the 15-metre, powerful waterfall.
The last stop was at the Lake Monroe beach, an excellent spot to have a picnic, paddle away on a canoe or a kayak, or just relax and admire the view composed of more pine trees than stars in the night sky.
With over 370,000 acres of forests, lakes and rivers, we just scratched the surface and left thirsty for more, hoping to make a longer trip and stay at least one week.
Camping sites, yurts and cabins are available for rent, in addition to an endless selection of accommodations near the park, at the many lovely small towns tucked in the Laurentians.
Fun things to do in Mont-Tremblant include a Via Ferrata, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, canoeing, and biking, among other activities (equipment rental is available on-site at each sector).
1.877.425.2434; General admission: CAD$ 9.55 p/day (Free admission for children 17 and under)
The best way to explore the Laurentians and the villages near Mont-Tremblant is by car.
To find great deals in rentals check out Discover Cars.
Mont-Tremblant Activities for Adventure Lovers
For you, adrenaline junkie, there are several activities in Mont-Tremblant to quench the thirst for fun and action. These are highly-rated experiences to try during your visit:
Mont-Tremblant Guided Zipline Tour: see the lakes and mountains from above as you slide along five lines (the longest in Quebec with almost 2.5 miles -four kilometres).
Book this tour here, with a rating of 4.9/5 based on more than 800 reviews.
Mont-Tremblant Helicopter Tour: you won’t find a higher viewpoint to admire the beauty of this landscape than on this 20-minute helicopter ride that oversees the entire area (flights happen all-year round).
Book this tour here, with a rating of 5/5 based on more than 60 reviews.
Dogsled Adventure: visiting during the winter? Try this dog-sledding excursion where you may be able to learn how to drive the dog sled team.
Book this tour here, with a rating of 4.5/5 based on more than 40 reviews.
The Village of Val-David: Arts and Parks
Nature and culture are the words the people of Val-David chose to describe their hometown.
And they’re spot on.
Since our travels revolve mainly around these two subjects, this village near Mont-Tremblant (a 40-minute drive away from La Diable sector), was a must-see.
Val-David is the definition of “picturesque” and one of the best towns in the Laurentians. With many residents being artists, the town is brimming with art galleries and artist studios, resulting in a busy cultural calendar filled with exhibits, concerts and workshops.
Interesting community projects populate the streets, such as library kiosks and communal gardens where neighbours grow fruits and veggies to share.
Starting at the Parc Leonidas Dufresne, we walked a few kilometres on the Parc Lineaire Le P’tit Train du Nord. I really mean a few, as Le P’tit Train du Nord is about 232 kilometres, making it Canada’s longest linear park.
We shared the trail with cyclists and runners, under the steely eyes of the sculptures displayed along the edge of the former railroad that leads to the Parc Regional, where you can find more trails for all types of activities.
Le P’tit Train du Nord goes across several villages and through beautiful landscapes. It’s open all seasons for cycling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, walking or taking part in a half or a full marathon (*adds it in the bucket list).
Saint-Sauveur: It Belongs on a Postcard
This is a picture-perfect little town that could very well be a filming location of The Stepford Wives. The ski hills in the background frame the postcard-like streets, where even the garbage cans are beautiful.
Just taking a walk around the streets looking at the pristine environment is a delight.
All year round you’ll find cultural activities at the urban parks, and plenty of options to enjoy a nice dinner after spending a day outdoors.
Where to Stay in Mont Tremblant
I’m sold! I need more than one day here! I hear ya. Check out the hotels in Mont Tremblant and where to stay in the Laurentians to enjoy more of this area:
The Laurentian mountains is a popular destination in Quebec, packed with outdoor activities, art studios and cultural events. You can fill your calendar for days but if you’re short on time, at least take a day trip to this region from Ottawa or Montreal. Beware of the stunning landscape: you may change your mind and extend your stay for days!
Have you visited other towns in the region? Share this post with someone who is planning a trip this way.
DON’T MISS THESE NEARBY DESTINATIONS
BOOKING FLIGHTS AND ACCOMMODATIONS
Book your flight without losing your shirt
We check Momondo to find great deals to book our flights. Also, check Great Escape: it combines the listings from Expedia, Kiwi, Kayak, (and Skyscanner on the premium service) to find the best airfares.
To find a place to stay for less
Booking.com: you’ll find any type of property you can think of in their massive listing, with one of the most comprehensive filters. We’ve found great deals on boutique hotels, apartments, and private rooms in hostels.
Hotwire: the first site I check when we plan to stay at a hotel for a few nights. You can save anything from 20% to 60%. Use the search filter to find what you want and you’ll end up with three listings that match your criteria. You’ll know which one you’ll get after you book. If you can handle a little bit of uncertainty you can score big savings.
House Sitting: you take care of people’s pets and house for free while staying for free. It’s the closest thing to experiencing a place “like a local”. But it comes with responsibilities… Are you an animal lover? It may become your new way to travel.
To get travel insurance
SafetyWing: travel medical insurance that gives us peace of mind knowing that we’re covered in case of emergency. It’s convenient, affordable, and suitable for digital nomads who spend a long time outside their home country.
Check the full list of travel resources on my Resource Page for more options and savings
What a beautiful spot. Great photos! We haven’t made it yet but it’s on our list of winter destinations for skiing. Looks like we might need to make a summer trip as well!
You’ll love the hiking and the summer art festivals!
Wow it looks so beautiful! I love hiking so I’ve added this to my bucket list of places to visit!
There are plenty of hiking trails so you can spend days exploring the park. There’s even a via ferrata if you want some adrenaline!