Laurentides Road Trip: A Village-by-Village Itinerary from Montreal

A road trip through the Laurentides is one of the easiest and most rewarding getaways from Montreal. In a short drive, you go from the city to a landscape of lakes, rolling mountains and charming villages, each with its own personality. Whether you have one day or a full week, the region is made for exploring by car.

This itinerary follows the natural route north through the Laurentides, with suggestions for what to see, where to stop and how to adapt the trip to the season.

Planning your Laurentides road trip

The main artery of the region is Autoroute 15, which links Montreal to Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts. North of there, Route 117 continues to Mont-Tremblant, Labelle and Mont-Laurier. Many of the most beautiful spots, however, are a few minutes off these highways, along smaller roads that follow the lakes and rivers.

How many days do you need?

• One day: enough for the lower Laurentides, such as Saint-Sauveur, Morin-Heights and Val-David.
• Two to three days: the ideal length to reach Mont-Tremblant without rushing.
• Four days or more: lets you explore the Hautes-Laurentides and spend more time outdoors.

Day 1: Saint-Jérôme, Saint-Sauveur and Morin-Heights

Saint-Jérôme

Saint-Jérôme is often called the gateway to the Laurentides. It is also the southern starting point of the P’tit Train du Nord linear park, a former railway line converted into a cycling trail in summer and a multi-use trail in winter. A short stop here is a good way to stretch your legs.

Saint-Sauveur

Saint-Sauveur is one of the liveliest villages in the region. Its main street is lined with cafés, boutiques and restaurants, and the nearby ski hills turn into hiking and mountain-biking terrain in the warmer months. It is a great place for lunch.

Morin-Heights

Just west of Saint-Sauveur, Morin-Heights has a quieter, more rural feel. Lakes, cross-country trails and a relaxed village atmosphere make it a lovely detour before heading north.

Day 2: Sainte-Adèle, Val-David and Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts

Sainte-Adèle

Sainte-Adèle sits on the shores of Lac Rond and offers a mix of culture, gastronomy and outdoor fun. It is a natural stop between the lower and central Laurentides.

Val-David

Val-David is the artistic heart of the region. Artists’ studios, a vibrant summer market, rock-climbing walls and beautiful trails give the village a unique energy. If you like hiking, the regional park around Val-David and Val-Morin offers some of the best views in the area.

Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts

Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts is built around Lac des Sables. In summer, a boat cruise or a swim at the public beach is a great way to cool off. In winter, the frozen lake and the surrounding trails create a postcard setting.

Day 3: Mont-Tremblant

No Laurentides road trip is complete without Mont-Tremblant. The area is divided into several sectors: the pedestrian resort village at the foot of the mountain, the historic Saint-Jovite area with its own shops and restaurants, and the vast Parc national du Mont-Tremblant to the north.

• In winter: skiing, snowshoeing and dog sledding.
• In summer: hiking, canoeing, cycling, golf and swimming.
• In autumn: some of the best fall colours in Quebec.

For ideas on where to sleep, see our guide to the best hotels in the Laurentides.

Day 4 and beyond: the Hautes-Laurentides

If you have more time, continue north on Route 117 toward Labelle, Rivière-Rouge and Mont-Laurier. This part of the region is wilder and less crowded. It is the perfect place for travellers who want lakes, forest, wildlife and peace and quiet. Outfitters and remote chalets offer an authentic experience, especially for fishing and canoe-camping lovers.

Adapting your road trip to the seasons

Summer

Summer is the high season for lakes, beaches, cycling and outdoor terraces. Book your accommodation early and plan to be on the road early in the morning on Fridays and Sundays to avoid traffic. Our guide to summer activities in the Laurentides has plenty of ideas.

Autumn

Autumn is spectacular. The colours usually peak between late September and early October, depending on the year and the area.

Winter

Winter driving in the Laurentides requires preparation. In Quebec, winter tires are mandatory on passenger vehicles registered in Quebec during the winter period set by law, generally from December 1 to March 15. Always check road conditions before leaving and keep an emergency kit in the car. For winter ideas, read what to do in the Laurentides in winter.

Spring

Spring is the quietest season. It is the time of sugar shacks, spring skiing and roaring waterfalls as the snow melts. Some trails can be muddy, so choose your hikes carefully.

Practical road trip tips

• Fill up regularly once you go north of Mont-Tremblant, as service stations become less frequent.
• Download your maps before leaving, since cell coverage can be weak in some remote areas.
• Watch for wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk. Deer and moose can cross the road unexpectedly.
• Respect local rules at beaches, boat launches and parks, which can have specific access conditions.
• Pack for all weather, as conditions in the mountains can change quickly.

FAQ: Laurentides road trip

How long is the drive from Montreal to Mont-Tremblant?

Without traffic, the drive usually takes about an hour and a half via Autoroute 15 and Route 117. On busy Friday afternoons and Sunday evenings, plan for more time.

What is the most scenic route in the Laurentides?

Route 117 is the main road, but the most scenic drives are often the smaller roads that run between lakes, such as those around Val-David, Lac-Supérieur and the Hautes-Laurentides.

Can I do a Laurentides road trip without a car?

It is possible but more limited. Some intercity bus services connect Montreal to the main villages, and the P’tit Train du Nord linear park lets cyclists travel between villages in summer. A car remains the most flexible option.

What is the best season for a road trip in the Laurentides?

Each season has its charm. Summer and early autumn are the most popular for road trips, with long days, open trails and beautiful colours. Winter is ideal if your main goal is skiing.

Do I need winter tires to drive in the Laurentides?

Yes. Vehicles registered in Quebec must be equipped with winter tires during the legal winter period, and they are strongly recommended for any visitor driving in the region in winter.