Best Day Trips from Montreal to the Laurentides: 6 Easy Escapes

Looking for day trips from Montreal to the Laurentides? You are in luck. The Laurentides region starts less than an hour north of the city, which makes it one of the easiest places in Quebec to escape for a single day. Lakes, mountains, village main streets and outdoor trails are all within reach, and you can be back home for dinner.

This guide lists six simple day-trip ideas, explains how to plan your timing, and gives practical tips so your day feels like a getaway rather than a long drive.

Why the Laurentides Are Perfect for Day Trips from Montreal

Autoroute 15 runs straight north from Montreal through the heart of the region. Most of the towns below sit right along this corridor, so you spend more time exploring and less time in the car.

• Short distances: the southern towns are a short drive from the island.
• Four-season appeal: skiing in winter, lakes in summer, colours in fall.
• Variety: villages, nature parks, spas, cafés and a long recreational trail.

6 Day Trip Ideas from Montreal

1. Saint-Sauveur: Village Life and Ski Hills

Saint-Sauveur is often the first stop for Montrealers. Its main street is lined with shops, cafés and restaurants, and the nearby ski hills are popular for evening skiing in winter. In summer, it is a pleasant place to stroll, shop and eat on a terrace.

2. Val-David: Arts, Climbing and the Linear Park

Val-David has a creative, laid-back feel. Artists, small galleries and outdoor lovers give the village its character. The rock faces around the village attract climbers, and the P’tit Train du Nord linear park passes right through town, which makes it ideal for an easy bike ride or walk.

3. Mont-Tremblant: The Big Day Out

Mont-Tremblant is the furthest option on this list, so leave early. The pedestrian resort village, the mountain and the surrounding national park make for a full day. If one day feels too short, see our partner guide to where to stay in Mont-Tremblant.

4. Sainte-Adèle: Lakes and Easy Walks

Sainte-Adèle combines a small-town centre with lakes and wooded trails. It is a good choice for families who want a calm day with a picnic, a short hike and an ice cream before heading home.

5. Saint-Jérôme: The Gateway City

Saint-Jérôme is the closest larger city and the southern starting point of the P’tit Train du Nord. It works well for a short half-day: walk or cycle a section of the trail, visit the downtown area and grab lunch. Learn more in our Saint-Jérôme city guide.

6. A Spa Day in the Mountains

Nordic spas are one of the most popular reasons to drive north. A thermal circuit of hot baths, cold plunges and relaxation areas fills a whole day without any planning stress. Book ahead on weekends, as spots can fill up.

How to Plan Your Laurentides Day Trip

1. Choose one main destination. Trying to see three towns in one day usually means more driving and less enjoyment.
2. Leave early on weekends. Traffic on Autoroute 15 northbound can be heavy on Saturday mornings, and southbound on Sunday afternoons.
3. Check the season. Some trails, beaches and activities are seasonal. Ski hills need snow, and lakes are best from late June to early September.
4. Plan meals. Popular restaurants fill up quickly on busy weekends, so consider a reservation or a picnic.
5. Watch the weather. Mountain weather changes fast. Pack layers, even in summer.

Day Trips by Season

• Winter: skiing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and spa days.
• Spring: sugar shacks, quiet trails and fewer crowds.
• Summer: lakes, cycling the linear park, hiking and terraces.
• Fall: colourful foliage, which is often the busiest time of year. See our guide to fall colours in the Laurentides.

When a Day Trip Becomes a Weekend

Many visitors realize after one day that they want more time. If you decide to stay, browse chalet rentals in the Laurentides for a cozy base near a lake or ski hill.

FAQ

How far is the Laurentides from Montreal?

The southern part of the region begins less than an hour north of Montreal by car. Mont-Tremblant, further north, takes longer, so plan an early start.

Can you visit the Laurentides without a car?

It is possible to reach some towns by intercity bus, but a car gives far more flexibility for a day trip, especially for parks and lakes.

What is the best day trip for families?

Sainte-Adèle and Val-David are good choices: short walks, lakes, the linear park and relaxed village centres.

When is the busiest time to visit?

Fall colour season and winter weekends tend to be the busiest. Weekdays are calmer all year.