Laurentian Mountains (Les Laurentides) Tours

The forested peaks, serene lakes, and quaint villages of the Laurentian Mountains (Les Laurentides) are where Montrealers go to escape the city. In winter, resorts such as Mont-Tremblant and Mont-Sainte-Anne (Beaupré) cater to snow sports enthusiasts, while in summer, the region is a playground for hikers, climbers, paddlers, and white-water rafters. 

The Laurentian Mountains are the setting for a wide range of seasonal outdoor activities. In winter, spend the day skiing the slopes of Mont-Tremblant or soaking in a hot tub at a relaxing spa. In summer, try high-thrill activities, such as ziplining, rock climbing, cliff rappelling, and white-water rafting. Tours from Montreal offer the chance to swap the city for the countryside for the day, stopping at rural towns and villages in the region. Some day tours also incorporate lake cruises. 

The Laurentian Mountains are about a 90-minute drive north of Montreal and are accessible via Autoroute 1. Skyport shuttle buses run between Montreal Airport and Mont-Tremblant throughout the winter season, while Galland buses run from Montreal’s bus terminal to Mont-Tremblant year-round.

December through March is the best time for skiing and snowboarding. June through August is best for hiking. In late September and early October, the mountains are popular among leaf peepers. March is typically the best time to visit the Laurentians’ sugar shacks, which serve up maple-soaked feasts during the annual syrup harvest. 

Running for 125 miles (200 kilometers) along a disused railway track, this bike path cuts through some of the Laurentians’ most scenic landscapes. Despite the mountainous terrain, the path itself is relatively flat, making it accessible to cyclists of all fitness levels. The trail begins in Saint-Jérôme, just north of Montreal. It can be completed in one day, but for most cyclists, it’s more enjoyable to break up the journey with stops and do the full route over two or even three days.