If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping good time, the new pump bike track at the Parc du Curé-Deslauriers is a must-do this summer.

A video posted to social media by Josée Legault was my inspiration to give it a try. In the video, a handful of young kids were racing, rolling and pumping their way to a joyous afternoon. It looked like too much fun not to try.

I borrowed a single-speed bike from Patrick Lussier. I asked ace-biker Jacynthe Martin to show me the ropes. And, helmet in hand, we were off to the park to give it a pump.

Getting pumped

Expertly woven within a beautiful forest of pine, the pump track in the Old Village of Mont- Tremblant is nothing short of a high-octane blast. The well-thought-out design and gently-downhill-sloping course make it easy to gather speed.

The roller-coaster-like track is a continuous loop of paved berms and mounds, with a few fast switchbacks. Riders use an up-and-down pumping motion to propel themselves forward, instead of pedaling or pushing.

While my first few times around the course were more pedaling than pumping – and included a few shrieks and gasps – it does not take long to get the hang of it.

After a half hour or so, Jacynthe and I were racing through the course. Just like the kids in the video, we kept shouting “one more time”.

An ageless activity

One of the awesome things about pump tracks is that anyone can do it. Whether you are seven or seventy. Beginner or expert. If you can ride a bike, you can ride a pump track… and kick up your summer fun.

Fun fact. The track is across the street from O’Café. Caffeine, croissants and a fast bike. The makings of a perfect weekend morning.

More from this author by clicking on her photo below.