While people who practice classic, free-style or skate skiing have 117 kilometres of trails in Mont-Tremblant, those who enjoy Nordic-style skiing, alpine touring, winter walking, snowshoeing or Fatbiking are also well served.

A trail for each one

Lucie Lamy, who manages the network of trails for the Ville de Mont-Tremblant and has been a sports enthusiast since 1978, indicates that Le P’tit Train du Nord linear park, 18 kilometres in length, is groomed by Ski de Fond Mont-Tremblant for both skiers and walkers. The trail La-Villageoise-de-Mont-Tremblant, 11 kilometres in length, is reserved for cross-country skiing and Fatbiking (cycling on a bike with oversized tires). A new trail, which opened in December, is only for snowshoeing. It starts from the heart of Le Village (on lac Mercier) and runs for three kilometres.

“The secret,” Lucie Lamy emphasizes, “lies in choosing the right equipment. For example, a cross-country ski boot is not right for alpine touring.” Fortunately, any equipment needed can be rented in several places, all noted on the Ville’s maps.

A newcomer takes to the trails

For a while now, there’s been a newcomer on the trails: the Fatbike (in French, the VPS). Equipped with fat tires inflated to a low pressure, it is increasingly popular. “Thanks to electric Fatbikes, the activity is perfect for families or groups,” Lucie adds. “Everyone can travel at the same speed. These bikes are safe and can also be rented.”

A few rules to keep in mind

Remember that courtesy and respect are at the top of the list of basics. For example, when the different types meet on a shared trail, the cyclists give way to the skiers and snowshoers. What’s more, it’s a good idea to check on the state of the trails before using them. A trek during a pronounced thaw can damage the trails.

Useful tools

It is recommended that you get the trail maps. “There are two,” Ms. Lamy notes. “There’s one for the cross-country and Fatbike trails, and there’s another for snowshoeing, walking and alpine touring trails. They’re available at city hall, at the tourist offices, in sports stores and Bed and Breakfasts.

Technology serving skiing

“Since 2014” Lucie adds “the Ville has suggested that you download to your phone the free bilingual app called Ondago. It provides access to eight maps and for you to be geolocated so you don’t get lost.”

On the Ville website, there’s a tab on the English site called Recreation through which there’s access to the condition of various trails for different activities.

“In cross-country skiing,” Lucie assures us, “the first après-ski activity is a good shower or fresh warm clothes. After that, bars and restaurants will welcome the valiant sportsman or sportswoman with open arms.”

In other words, you can take full advantage of all that Mont-Tremblant has to offer this winter.