Well-known for its epic ski hills, Mont Tremblant is a popular tourist destination for many adventurous travellers. But the magic of this area extends beyond the slopes. Whether you’re a seasoned skier, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking a cozy escape with breathtaking scenery—there is no shortage of things to do in Mont Tremblant and the Laurentians. Yes, even during the warmer summer months!
We recently had the opportunity to pack our bags and take a quick getaway – discovering the beauty of this area firsthand.
We started our trip in the Laurentians, where we tried dog sledding. What a rush! From there, the trip continued to impress with a trip to the popular Scandinave Spa Mont-Tremblant, a spectacular hike through the treetops, and (of course) an opportunity to indulge in the local cuisine. With so many things to do in Mont Tremblant and the Laurentians, you will surely have an incredible trip.
**It’s worth noting that the Ski Resort is named Tremblant, while the surrounding town/area is referred to as Mont Tremblant, and the broader region is known as the Laurentians (Laurentides). We’ve observed that individuals often use the name Mont Tremblant to refer specifically to the Ski Resort.**
History of Tremblant & The Laurentians
- The Weskarini Algonquin first inhabited the area. They believed that the Great Spirit “Gitche Manitou) lived in the mountain and would cause it to tremble when it was upset. This led to the name “Mont Tremblant” or “Trembling Mountain.”
- At the beginning of the 20th century, the Rivière du Diable (Devil’s River) area was busy with the work of lumberjacks and log drivers, providing the materials for newsprint to support the arrival of the printing press in the U.S.
- Mont-Tremblant Recreational Park was first created in 1895.
- In the late 1930s, the P’tit train du Nord carried large numbers of skiers to the Laurentian mountains, establishing the area as a skier’s paradise.
- The first chairlift was installed on Mont Tremblant in 1939. The Mont-Tremblant Lodge, Quebec’s first large ski station, was opened this same year.
- The Laurentian Mountains, also referred to as the Laurentians or Laurentides, is a mountain range that stretches for a distance of 1,448 km (900 mi) and has a varying height from 500 m (1,640 ft) with some peaks reaching over 1,000 m (3,280 ft).t).
Getting There from Toronto
One of the first things to consider when planning your Laurentian/Mont Tremblant trip is how you plan to get to your destination. This can impact many aspects of your travel plans, including your budget, vehicle availability during your stay, and how easy it will be to include other destinations in your trip. Here are 4 different travel options to Mont Tremblant and the Laurentians, Quebec.
By Car
If you plan to drive to Mont Tremblant and the Laurentians, the trip will take approximately 6 ½ hours. You can either follow ON-401 E or Hwy 7 from Toronto with very little change to the trip duration. To decide on the best route for your trip, we recommend checking out the possible stops along the way, especially if you are travelling with pets or children.
By Train
Another option for those who prefer public transit is to take a train with VIA Rail from Toronto to Montreal. The trip is estimated to take approximately 5 ½ hours and tickets start at $59 one way. Like the bus, the train will take you as far as Montreal. From there, you will need to rent a car to Mont-Tremblant.
By Plane
For those interested in getting to their destination as quickly as possible, you may prefer to take a flight. This does come with a higher price tag, but it effectively shaves hours off your travel time. Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from Toronto to Mont Tremblant, but Porter Airlines offers a flight from Toronto to Montreal starting at approximately $310 before taxes and fees. The flight is only expected to take 1 hour and 15 minutes. When you arrive in Montreal, you can take a bus for the remainder of the trip, as described in the bus and train options above.
By Dog Sled
Just Kidding…but more on that below!
Hotels in the Laurentians
Once you arrive in the Laurentians, you will likely want to drop your bags and freshen up before you start to explore. The area has many great hotel options, including hotels at Mont Tremblant directly. When selecting the best hotel for your stay, consider not only your budget but also the area in which the things you want to do are located. We’re positive you’ll have a great trip regardless of which hotel you choose. But to help you start planning, here are a few hotels we recommend:
Residence Inn by Marriott Mont Tremblant Manoir Labelle
170 chemin Curé-Deslauriers, Mont Tremblant
Conveniently found in the heart of Tremblant Village, this was the hotel we stayed at during our recent trip. This makes it a great option for those interested in the many things to do in Mont Tremblant specifically, including shopping at the pedestrian village, visiting the local spa, or, of course, skiing. You can even ski right up to the hotel.
The hotel’s fresh, modern décor creates a comfortable and welcoming environment. It also offers stunning views of the Laurentian mountains. Start each morning with a complimentary buffet-style breakfast on-site. When the weather permits, you can relax in the hot tubs or the seasonal outdoor pool with the mountains towering beautifully overhead.
Ax Hôtel Mont Tremblant
860 Rue Lalonde, Mont Tremblant
Another great hotel option in the Mont Tremblant area, the Ax Hotel Mont Tremblant is a modern, luxury hotel located just 15 minutes from Mont Tremblant Village and a short drive to other popular attractions, like Scandinave Spa Mont Tremblant and Casino Mont Tremblant. But its convenient location isn’t the only reason to consider this hotel for your next trip.
Located on-site, Les Sans Filtres café-bar is the perfect place to start your day with a fun selection of coffee drinks. They are open every morning from 7 AM to 11 AM and on Fridays and Saturdays for evening service. On other evenings, they have products and cocktails available in their Grab N’Go to ensure you always have an option available.
Are you planning on travelling with pets? Pet-friendly rooms are available but are restricted to those weighing less than 50 lbs.
Outdoor Adventures: Hiking & Camping in the Laurentians
Hotels and inns aren’t the only options in the area when considering where to rest your head. In fact, the Laurentian mountains are well-known to the outdoor adventure community as a go-to spot for hiking and camping. Several different parks and campgrounds are available, including several that are open only during the traditional “camping season” (May to October) and a select few that are open year-round for those interested in braving the colder temperatures.
Here are some locations to consider if you are interested in camping in the Laurentians:
Things to Do in Mont Tremblant & Tremblant Resort
Enjoy a Day of Downhill Skiing or Snowboarding
One of the most common reasons people are attracted to the area is the opportunity to go skiing in the Laurentians. After all, Mont Tremblant Ski Resort has an incredible reputation in the skiing and snowboarding communities. With 102 available ski trails ranging in difficulty from beginner to expert, there are options for everyone.
If this is your first time skiing or snowboarding, Tremblant Snow School offers lessons for all ages and skill levels taught by certified ski instructors. Equipment rentals are also available.
Hit the Trails Cross-Country Skiing
Another popular option for those who want to ski the Laurentians, Mont Tremblant offers 120 km of cross-country trails for skiers of all experience levels. This is a great way to discover the area’s natural beauty at your own pace while getting a good workout.
Trails are available starting at the resort, alongside the Diable River, or through Parc national du Mont-Tremblant. Equipment rentals are available at each of these three locations.
Shop the Mont Tremblant Pedestrian Village
One feature that makes Mont Tremblant different from many other ski resorts and destinations is the Mont Tremblant Pedestrian Village. Located at the base of the mountain, the village features cobblestone paths lined by shops, hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, and more. You can access everything you need without ever leaving the area.
If you enjoy shopping, you will love the many shops and boutiques. Here, you will find ski and snowboard gear, clothing, groceries, art creations, maple syrup products, and more. We recommend you stop by the Rocky Mountain Chocolate shop to indulge in chocolates, fudge, caramel apples, ice cream, and their infamous homemade chocolate barks.
Throughout the year, you will also find many entertainers and street performers. There are also fun playgrounds and a splash pad for the children. If you run into Toufou, the Pedestrian Village mascot, make sure to stop for a hug or take a selfie together!
Go Golfing with Friends
Are you travelling to the Mont Tremblant area during warmer weather? If so, skiing is obviously off the table. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of other things to do in Mont Tremblant. Two golf courses are located at Mont Tremblant: Le Diable Golf Course and Le Géant Golf Course.
Le Diable Golf Course is a challenging experience that is said to test even the most skilled golfers. It has been named one of the top 10 courses in Canada by Golf Style and is well-known as one of Quebec’s best public golf courses. With surprises around every corner, this may be a little too demanding if this is your first time teeing off.
Le Géant Golf Course is a large course with stunning views of the Laurentian mountains. SCOREgolf magazine voted it the second-best public golf course in Canada. In addition to the course itself, it also offers a golf academy and driving range. This is a great option if you’re searching for the right location to accommodate golfers of all skill levels.
Discover the Slopes in a New Way with Ice Climbing
If you’re looking for new, fun things to do during your visit to Mont Tremblant, consider this exciting adventure: Rather than spending all your time skiing the slopes, why not try ice climbing?
Experienced instructors are ready to teach you the basic skills necessary to climb an ice waterfall, including belaying, abseiling, and rock climbing. This makes it an activity that’s accessible to all skill levels, including those who have no prior climbing experience.
Rock climbing at Mont Tremblant costs $89 per participant and lasts approximately 3 hours. Children must be at least 8 years old to participate. You must book at least 72 hours before climbing either on their website or by phone.
Brave Heights on the Zipline
Another fun activity available at Mont Tremblant is the zipline tour experience from Ziptrek Ecotours. To begin, you will ride a panoramic gondola up to the summit of the mountain. Here, you will find 6 viewing decks with incredible views of the area and 5 ziplines, totalling almost 4 km in length, the longest zipline in Quebec. The ride will allow you to soar above the trees and see the area from a new vantage point as it brings you from the summit back down to Mont Tremblant village.
The price of admission includes the gondola ride to the summit and equipment rental of the helmet and harness, which is necessary. Admission costs $149.99 for adults (13+) or $119.99 for children (7-12). However, promotions are available Monday to Friday if booked 72 hours in advance.
Refuel with a Delicious Meal at La Forge Bistro-Bar
Are you feeling hungry after a busy day skiing or playing golf? If so, you’re in luck—there are many great restaurants at Mont Tremblant to choose from. One that we really enjoyed during our visit was the La Forge Bistro-Bar. Located conveniently in the pedestrian village, you can enjoy dinner and a drink while enjoying the beautiful mountain views and ski hills on one side or check out Place St-Bernard on the other.
The menu features a variety of delicious burgers, poutine, truffle fries, tacos, steak entrees, and more. Several gluten-free options are available for those with dietary restrictions, and there is a children’s menu with smaller portion sizes. Their drink menu offers everything from beer and signature cocktails to 8 martini options and specialty coffees.
Embrace Nature on the Snowshoe Trails
If you’re interested in seeing the natural beauty of the Mont Tremblant area but aren’t interested in skiing, here’s another fun option to consider. With a $25.00 daily access pass, you can explore 7 snowshoeing trails that crisscross Mont Tremblant. These trails range from beginner-friendly to very strenuous and provide stunning views of the highest peak in the Laurentian mountains, including beautiful streams and waterfalls. Snowshoes can be rented for $12.50.
In addition to the trails available directly at the resort, Domaine Saint-Bernard has a trail network with trails ranging from 2 km to 13 km in length. Here, you will find a variety of trails, wood-heated shacks, and nature interpretation boards to turn your outing into an educational experience. Parc national du Mont-Tremblant also has 6 trails for all skill levels.
Relax and Be Pampered at the Scandinave Spa Mont Tremblant
Everyone deserves to be pampered from time to time. For those spending time in the Mont Tremblant area, you will have access to one of the best-known spas in the Laurentians – Scandinave Spa Mont Tremblant. You can choose from a variety of massage options, including Swedish relaxation, therapeutic, deep tissue, and prenatal massages. Are you planning a romantic getaway with someone special? Book a couple’s massage to spend quality time while being pampered together.
Sitting in one of the wooden saunas (pictured above), which are situated a few meters away from the Devil’s River (Rivière du Diable), we watched pieces of ice gently floating downstream through the large bay windows and scattered trees. The room was filled with the delightful aroma of Eucalyptus, which relaxed our muscles and minds. We could have stayed there all day!
Shortly after these thoughts, who knew we’d be plunging into the -1-degree river pictured below?
If you’re interested in a unique experience, consider booking a thermal journey. First, you will spend 15 minutes in the heat of the dry sauna before moving onto a 30-second cold plunge. Finally, you are encouraged to spend 15 minutes embracing complete relaxation or meditation. This process is said to have many physical and mental benefits, such as improving sleep quality, releasing tension, and supporting better mental health.
The admission cost of the thermal journey includes two towels, a robe rental, and a locker for your belongings. Costs start at $95, but they fluctuate depending on the day of the week and the demand of peak times.
Try Your Luck at Casino Mont Tremblant
Are you feeling lucky? Casino Mont Tremblant offers a one-of-a-kind casino experience. With more than 400 slot machines, a wide assortment of table games (roulette, blackjack, poker, and baccarat), and electronic games, there are options for everyone. The casino also includes a seafood grill, the Altitude restaurant, a 29-seat bar, 2 private lounges, and live music performances on the weekends.
Getting to the casino is easy. A free shuttle runs every 30 minutes from the Chalet des Voyageurs in the Pedestrian Village to the casino. It also stops at several hotels on request (check with your hotel’s front desk if interested). Alternatively, you can take the express gondola.
Celebrate with Drinks at Central Tapas & Nightclub
Whether you are celebrating a special occasion, like a birthday or anniversary, or simply want to enjoy an evening of cocktails and fantastic food, Central Tapas & Nightclub is the perfect option.
Central Tapas is one of the must-visit Mont Tremblant restaurants. The aesthetic, décor, and menu were all inspired by the traditional tapas restaurants of Spain. With so many great options, you can’t go wrong. Enjoy the classic flavours of street food from Mexico and Argentina, and don’t forget to finish with dessert, such as their passion crème brulee.
After 10 PM, the nightclub side of Central opens its doors. Dance the night away thanks to the club’s live DJs and pumping dance floor. Make it a night to remember by renting a V.I.P. booth or, for the most important celebrations, consider the Sky VIP Booth with your own private third floor.
Go Ice Skating at Jardins de Glace
Jardins de Glace is a fun, family-friendly event located on the grounds of the St-Bernard chapel. It is a free illuminated outdoor ice rink open every day from 1 PM to 9 PM. It is the perfect way to spend quality time with the kids, have fun with friends, or enjoy a romantic skate. Rental skates are free for guests staying on-site with proof of accommodation. But don’t wait too long, as it is first come, first served. In addition to the rink, you will also find two slides made entirely from ice and an impressive display of ice sculptures.
Activities and Attractions in the Laurentians
Mont Tremblant is a popular destination, but this area has much more to offer. Here are just a few of the many things to do in the Laurentians:
Go Dog Sledding at the Kanatha-Aki Nature Centre
If you are looking for an unforgettable experience during your trip to the Laurentians, we recommend booking an adventure through the family-owned Kanatha-Aki Nature Centre. You will find horseback riding, survivor/trapper expeditions, zipline rides, fishing (ice, line, fly, and hand), a bison reserve, and sled dogs.
The name, Kanatha-Aki, comes from the Algonquin language, meaning “guardian of the boundless earth.”
During our stay, we were taken on a dog sledding ride. What a rush! This was one of our favourite things we have ever done. Not just on this trip, but on any trip! If given the opportunity, we would do this again in a heartbeat. Our guide, Branden Kitpu, was a Metis tattoo artist from Nova Scotia. He answered many of our questions about the dogs, explaining the following:
- Although the dogs are chained up, it is because the dogs are wild. They are not fixed, and if they were to wander, they would get into fights with the other alpha dogs and get the other female dogs pregnant.
- Dogs are fed raw meat with fish oils (a very expensive diet)
- It’s a 24-hour job, responsible for their packs of dogs; if they get sick at 2 am, they are looking after them.
- These dogs are born to run. In fact, the dogs you see walking around the property are retired, and sometimes, they seem sad that they can no longer run.
- Branden knows his dog’s personalities, strengths, weaknesses and little quirks and can even compare his current dog characteristics to their siblings, parents, grandparents, etc.
- The two dogs at the front are in charge of keeping the pack in line, following their lead as they follow Branden’s instructions.
In addition to a one-and-a-half-hour dog sledding ride through the area’s forests and landscapes, we enjoyed a lunch of fresh trout from the nearby lake, wrapped in tinfoil and cooked in an old stove. We had to separate the bones from the fish ourselves. It was one of the best-tasting trout I have ever had—nothing fancy, nothing fishy! This was paired with bread that we could dip in a cheese fondue. Delicious!
Kanatha-Aki Nature Center is certified by Aventure Écotourisme Québec, an association of quality-safety-certified outdoor professionals. The Quebec Ministry of Tourism recognizes them as the official voice for the adventure tourism and ecotourism sector. They work to ensure that member businesses offer a safe, high-quality experience, holding them to some of the most rigorous standards in North America.
View the Area from the Trees, Literally at Sentier des cimes Laurentides
One of the unique ways to experience the beauty of the area, Sentier des cimes Laurentides allows you to be fully immersed in nature as you stroll through the treetops on a raised wooden path. The nearly kilometre-long trial is designed to blend seamlessly with the environment, allowing visitors to enjoy the area without disrupting local wildlife or destroying the surrounding ecosystem. It is safe and barrier-free, making it accessible for people in wheelchairs, scooters, and families with strollers.
Along this path, learning stations encourage visitors to view nature from a new perspective and create educational opportunities to learn about the local plants and wildlife. One platform on the pathway features a bird feeder to attract chickadees (and some squirrels). Here, you are invited to feed the birds by holding a handful of seeds.
The best views are found from atop the trail’s 40-meter-high panoramic tower. The path up the tower circles around its exterior, offering a full 360-degree view of the area. In the center, a giant net allows the most adventurous visitors to be suspended 40 meters in the air.
Visit the Iconic Parc National du Mont Tremblant
Just 30 minutes from Mont Tremblant resort, Parc national du Mont Tremblant is the oldest protected area in Quebec. The park covers an impressive 1510 km² and includes 400 lakes and streams, 6 major rivers, 40 species of mammals, and more to discover.
This is a bucket-list destination for many outdoor travel lovers with opportunities for camping, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, fishing, and mountain biking during the warmer months. There is still a lot to do in the winter, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snow trekking, and winter camping (only for experienced and well-equipped campers).
While the park offers many fun activities, its primary purpose is conservation. To respect this mission, visitors are asked to stay on the designated trails and practice “Leave No Trace” principles. This is best summarized as leaving nothing behind by footprints, minimizing your environmental impact.
Navigate the Waters by Kayak on the Kiamika Reservoir
Another great way to get outdoors and embrace the peace of being in nature, Kiamika Parc Régional is a popular destination for kayakers. Situated on the Kiamika Reservoir, you can paddle the calm waters, take in the stunning views, and spot some local wildlife if you’re lucky. If you have a Quebec fishing permit, this is also an excellent place for a relaxing afternoon fishing.
For those interested in extending their visit, Kiamika Park offers 58 canoe camping sites, accessible only by boat. These rustic and isolated campsites allow you to be completely immersed in nature, undisturbed by local developments. Like most rustic sites, there are no amenities available, so pack accordingly. One bag of firewood is included in your nightly fee.
Ride the Alpine Roller Coaster at Parc F.U.N.
Located in the town of Saint-Sauveur, Parc F.U.N. is a fun stop for families and visitors of all ages. The amusement park offers a variety of roads as well as an 18-hole mini golf course. In the summer, you can “fly” on Dragon, the double zip line, spin in teacups on the Honey Bee, or fly a plane on the Red Baron.
Most of these rides are closed for the season if you’re visiting during the winter months. However, the park offers a four-season ride alpine coaster called The Viking. There is nothing quite like it anywhere else in the province. A hybrid between a traditional roller coaster and a sled, riders travel along a rail system on a single car featuring circular curves and steep descents. The ride can reach speeds of up to 35 km/h.
Try White Water Rafting on the Rouge River
On your way back to Toronto, Montreal or Ottawa, about an hour or so from Mont Tremblant, how about doing a little white water rafting?
Enjoy an adrenaline rush this summer by taking a white-water rafting trip along the Rouge River with Le Centre D’Activités Mont Tremblant. Expert guides will take you on an exciting adventure, navigating the best stretches of the river depending on current water levels and your experience level. During your descent, you will experience fast and furious drops, waves and ledges, as well as calm pools where you can take in the beautiful scenery.
The cost, including transportation from the main center, is $135.50 per person. You must be 12 years old or older to participate. After, relax at The Activity Center, which has a bar, shower, pool, hot tub, volleyball court, and dining area.
Embrace the Natural Beauty of Quebec with a Trip to Mont Tremblant & the Laurentians
If you’re looking to enjoy an authentically Canadian getaway, the Laurentians are the place to go. From the ski hills and pedestrian village at Mont Tremblant to an epic dogsled ride at the Kanatha-Aki Nature Centre, there are so many fun reasons to add this destination to your bucket list. We had so much fun during our trip to the Laurentians that we can’t wait to return!
FAQs
Is Mont Tremblant walkable?
Yes, the Mont Tremblant area, including the Pedestrian village, is designed to be easy to navigate on foot. Shuttles are available for attractions that aren’t within easy walking distance (like the shuttle to Casino Mont Tremblant).
How long will it take to see everything at Mont Tremblant?
While Mont Tremblant is only one portion of the Laurentians area, there is much to do here! You can easily spend 4 to 5 days if you want to see everything Mont Tremblant offers. For a weekend getaway, you can fill your schedule by selecting the activities and attractions you are most interested in during your stay.
Do I need to speak French in Mont Tremblant?
While the area provides an excellent opportunity to practice your French skills, it’s not necessary. As a popular international tourist destination, businesses in Mont Tremblant offer service in both English and French.
What is the Laurentian region known for?
Like many parts of Quebec, the Laurentians are well known for their outdoor activities, including the Mont Tremblant ski resort. This is a bucket list destination for skiers and snowboarders worldwide. Additionally, Parc national du Mont Tremblant is a major attraction for those who enjoy camping and hiking. It’s a great place to get outdoors and embrace the province’s natural beauty.
What Should I pack for my trip to the Laurentians?
What other Quebec destinations are near the Laurentians?
As previously mentioned, the Laurentians are conveniently close to Montreal for those planning a bigger road trip with multiple destinations. But Montreal isn’t the only area nearby that’s worth exploring. Some other places you should consider for your next road trip include Laval, the Lanaudière region, and Trois-Rivières.
