Summer might be ending, but that’s never a reason to be sad in the Laurentians! The fall colour season has arrived in the region in all its grandiosity. The verdant scenery slowly lights up with a thousand and one shimmering shades, and the Laurentian nature completes its transformation into a massive multicolored abstract. After the heat waves of summer, it’s time to come and admire the region’s ardent and mountainous landscapes in cooler air. Fall in the Laurentians means vibrant moments magnified by flamboyant landscapes.
The days may be shorter, but the sunsets are at their most magical during this warm time of year. Hiking and biking become easier, without the sweltering heat. A rustling carpet of leaves covers the trails. It’s easy to spend long hours outside enjoying the orange and scarlet hues all around and working up an appetite, to which this year’s harvest has an answer. U-pick, gourmet brunches, wine grape harvesting, and fall lunches are all equally good ways to discover the traditional flavours of the Laurentians in this bountiful time of year. After a busy day, it’s finally time to gather by the fire and dream about the new fall adventures tomorrow holds.
For a colourful outing
Seeing the region’s hills and valleys from the sky, you say? In this season of vibrant colours, the viewpoints get even more spectacular the higher you go! A new tourist destination in Mont-Blanc, Sentier des cimes Laurentides is sure to impress with its massive 40-metre structure that promises a breathtaking view of the Laurentian landscape. At Tremblant Resort, make sure you’re seated comfortably aboard the panoramic gondola, and admire the view from the region’s highest summit. Finally, for something truly awe-inspiring, head for the clouds with Hélibellule and fly over the picturesque fields of the Lower Laurentians.
A hike under the shade of the fall leaves
In a season where nature is at its most flamboyant, the Laurentians invite you to discover the trails at its parks and wildlife reserves and the plethora of activities they have to offer. Hiker for life or just for the day, you’re sure to find the perfect trail for your feet amongst the multitude of hiking locations in the region. If you’re looking to get further away, try a horseback ride in the majestic Laurentian forest with one of several personalized riding packages at Kanatha-Aki Nature Centre in Val-des-Lacs. Discover the world of sled dogs in the fall at Alaskan Aventure in Arundel. During a cani-hike, hike while a dog pulls you forward using a leash attached to a belt.
Head out to find colours and thrills
It’s no secret that the fall colours are impressive when you’re on the ground, but how about during a treetop nature adventure? Hit the road for Acro-Nature in Morin-Heights for a tree-to-tree adventure through four circuits packed with obstacles, ziplines, and an Ultimate Zone for daredevils. In Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, Tyroparc invites you to attempt various activity combinations, such as The Classic, with four mega-ziplines and hiking, The Discovery, with via ferrata and two mega-ziplines, or La Cité des Bois, to introduce your children aged 3 and up to this new aerial adventure park. For the ultimate adventure, head to Ziptrek Écotours in Mont-Tremblant to hurtle down Mont-Tremblant from the summit to the pedestrian village thanks to five ziplines spanning nearly 4 kilometres. Lastly, for an unforgettable mountainside journey, tighten your harness, secure your carabiners, and scale the via ferrata at Parc national du Mont-Tremblant!
Fall, a gift to enjoy as a family
During the fall, apple-picking as a family is a must, but you’re sure to find even more ideas by exploring the range of activities available in the region! Starting in September in Mirabel, stroll through a giant sunflower field at Intermiel and discover this magnificent flower. While you’re there, enjoy some time with the kids at the petting zoo and stop at the store to discover a variety of honey products. Now, it’s time to see the colours change at Sommet Saint-Sauveur! Every weekend from September 10 to October 30, mountain hiking, chairlift ascent, and rides at Parc F.U.N. are on the agenda! For an immersive and sensory experience at the heart of nature, Tonga Lumina at Tremblant Resort invites you to unravel the mysteries of the giant who dwells there through a 1.5-km night walk. The adventure starts at the foot of the mountain, in the giant’s footsteps! Available until October 15.
Exploring the region on two wheels
To zoom down the slopes in their fall colours or scale the rocky landscapes, try mountain biking, a sport that increases in popularity each year among riders of all ages. Outstanding views, trails with exceptional plants and wildlife, a variety of routes adapted to all levels, you’re sure to find your next favourite spot! For all the details on what the region has to offer and to get ready for your next two-wheeled outing on the mountain, check out the brand new website at velodemontagnelaurentides.com.
There’s still time to…
Although temperatures are dropping and nature seems to be fading, it’s not too late to get out and make the most of summer attractions one last time! Here’s an eclectic selection, to say the least. The Laurentians have it all for outdoor enthusiasts looking to take their sport to a rural setting. For example, fall can make for a lovely day of golfing! Water sports enthusiasts, kayak down the river one last time in Val-David or Mont-Tremblant with À l’Abordage, until the end of September. Croisières Mont-Tremblant invites you to discover breathtaking landscapes in the magical setting of the Laurentian mountains. Open until October 16! For a perfect end to the evening, park in front of the outdoor screens at Ciné-parc Belle Neige in Val-Morin, and check out the latest releases with your family or friends.
Mark your calendar with fall events!
The fall colour season means a ton of festivals near you! For its 37th edition from September 17 to 19, the Festival de la galette is going back in time through a variety of fun activities focused on the heritage and history of Vieux-Saint-Eustache. On September 21 and 22, head for the Festival Couleur Country in downtown Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts and let the country beats, shows, craft stands, and food fair sweep you away in a magical fall scenery. In Mont-Blanc, Parc Éco Laurentides is hosting its Festival Coul-Couleurs every weekend from September 24 to October 10, where you can take part in a forest rally, a trail interpretation circuit, a visit to Cordon Lake by boat, and much more. Lastly, the brand-new air show Festival aéronautique Volaria is scheduled for September 24 and 25 in Mirabel, and plans to take its own big thrills to the sky.
For all tourism-related questions: info-tourisme@laurentides.com or call: 450-224-7007 | 1-800-561-6673.