Things to Do in the Laurentides (Complete Guide) – 2026 Edition
The Laurentides, located just north of Montreal, remain one of Canada’s most versatile and visited regions in 2026. Known for their mountains, lakes, forests, charming villages, and four-season activities, the Laurentides attract millions of visitors each year seeking nature, relaxation, adventure, gastronomy, and culture.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape, a family vacation, a romantic retreat, or a full outdoor adventure, this complete guide covers everything to do in the Laurentides in 2026, season by season.
🌲 Why Visit the Laurentides in 2026?
The Laurentides continue to grow in popularity due to:
- Easy access from Montreal (less than 1 hour)
- Four distinct seasons with unique experiences
- Sustainable tourism initiatives and protected parks
- New activities, trails, spas, and culinary experiences
- A perfect balance between wild nature and refined comfort
🏞️ Outdoor & Nature Activities (Year-Round)
Hiking & Scenic Trails
Top hiking experiences:
- Mountain summits with panoramic views
- Forest paths through maple and pine trees
- Waterfall and river trails
- Wildlife observation routes
Hiking remains one of the most searched activities in the Laurentides in 2026.
The Laurentides are home to hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails, suitable for beginners and seasoned hikers.
Lakes, Rivers & Water Activities
With over 9,000 lakes, the Laurentides are a water-lover’s paradise.
Popular water activities:
- Canoeing & kayaking
- Paddleboarding
- Swimming in crystal-clear lakes
- Fishing (trout, bass, pike)
- Boat rentals & guided lake tours
❄️ Winter Activities in the Laurentides
Skiing & Snowboarding
The Laurentides are Quebec’s top ski destination, offering:
- Alpine skiing
- Snowboarding
- Family-friendly ski resorts
- Après-ski villages
Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing
Quiet winter trails allow visitors to explore snowy forests and frozen lakes.
Dog Sledding
A classic Laurentides winter experience, especially popular with families and international visitors.
🌸 Spring in the Laurentides (Maple & Renewal Season)
Spring is a magical time when nature awakens.
Things to do in spring:
- Visit traditional sugar shacks
- Taste fresh maple syrup products
- Enjoy quieter hiking trails
- Watch rivers swell with melting snow
- Observe wildlife returning to forests
☀️ Summer Activities & Family Fun
Summer is peak season in the Laurentides.
Top summer activities:
- Mountain biking
- Ziplining & aerial parks
- Beach days by the lakes
- Family adventure parks
- Outdoor festivals and events
- Camping & glamping
🍁 Fall Colors & Scenic Drives
Autumn is iconic in the Laurentides, famous for vibrant red, orange, and yellow forests.
Must-do fall experiences:
- Scenic road trips
- Photography excursions
- Harvest festivals
- Hiking during peak foliage
- Cozy cabin stays
Fall remains one of the most photographed seasons in the region.
🧖♀️ Spas, Wellness & Relaxation
The Laurentides are internationally recognized for Nordic spas.
Wellness experiences include:
- Hot and cold baths
- Forest saunas
- Massages and treatments
- Meditation and relaxation zones
- Year-round outdoor thermal circuits
Perfect for couples and solo travelers seeking peace.
🍽️ Food, Restaurants & Local Flavors
The region’s food scene continues to grow in 2026.
What to taste:
- Farm-to-table cuisine
- Artisanal cheeses
- Microbreweries & local beers
- Gourmet cafés and bakeries
- Maple-based desserts
Dining in the Laurentides blends rustic charm with culinary creativity.
🏘️ Charming Villages to Explore
Each village offers a unique atmosphere:
- Art galleries and boutiques
- Local markets
- Cultural events
- Historic streets
- Cafés and terraces
Village-hopping is a favorite activity for slow travelers.
🏕️ Where to Stay in the Laurentides
Accommodation options include:
- Cozy cabins and chalets
- Lakeside cottages
- Luxury resorts
- Eco-lodges
- Family-friendly hotels
- Camping and glamping sites
The Laurentides offer options for every budget and travel style.
🎯 Best Time to Visit the Laurentides
| Season | Why Visit |
|---|---|
| Winter | Skiing, snow activities, cozy chalets |
| Spring | Maple syrup, fewer crowds |
| Summer | Lakes, hiking, festivals |
| Fall | Spectacular foliage, scenic drives |
🌍 Sustainable Tourism in 2026
The Laurentides continue to promote:
- Eco-friendly accommodations
- Protected wildlife areas
- Responsible outdoor practices
- Local product consumption
Visitors are encouraged to travel responsibly and respect nature.
✨ Final Thoughts
In 2026, the Laurentides remain one of the most complete travel destinations in Canada. From thrilling outdoor adventures to serene spa retreats, from vibrant villages to untouched wilderness, the region offers something for everyone, in every season.
Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, the Laurentides always feel new, refreshing, and unforgettable.
