There’s no shortage of great cross-country ski trails in the Greater Montreal area. Here are our favourite spots.
Whether you're a novice or a pro, cross-country skiing is a great way to enjoy winter. And if you live in Montreal, you don't even have to leave the city. There are plenty of trails just around the corner.
This landmark needs no introduction. Located in the heart of the city, Montreal's largest park is a great place to walk, run and bike around. It also offers plenty of winter fun: ice skating on Beaver Lake, sledding and... cross-country skiing. The network of trails for beginners and intermediates starts at Maison Smith and Lac-aux-Castors and spans over 16 km. You can also rent gear on-site. Don’t have a car? No problem. You can reach the park via public transit.
Best known for being the site of Expo 67, this park is made up of two islands (Sainte-Hélène and Notre-Dame) on the St. Lawrence River and offers nearly 7 km of trails. Every morning, the friendly staff make sure that all trails are groomed. Enjoy panoramic views of the St.Lawrence and/or the city of Montreal. Rental equipment is available on-site.
Located in the Plateau-Mont-Royal, this is one of Montreal's prettiest parks. In summer, people flock here to relax and stroll around its pond. During the winter, the pond freezes over and becomes a skating rink. You can also find two cross-country ski trails. It may not sound like much, but its central location is the perfect place to get some fresh air. A total of 5.2 km of trails run through the western part of the park. Cross-country ski equipment is available for rent.
If you live further north of Montreal, add this lesser-known park to your list. Here you can enjoy snowshoeing, as well as cross-country skiing. Despite the short ski trails, you'll be able to cover almost 8 km. Enjoy magnificent views of the frozen Rivière des prairies and the historic site. The park offers on-site rentals.
Just a stone's throw from the Botanical Gardens, this park features 12 km of classic cross-country ski trails that you can access from all the park entrances. Whether you like wooded areas or open landscapes, you'll find what you're looking for. And if you're into skate skiing, there's a 2.7 km trail just for you. Trail access is free, but you need to bring your gear since there are no rentals.
Whether you prefer classic or skate skiing, this spot in Montreal's southwest has something for everyone. You can glide through the woods and enjoy a view of the frozen pond. The park provides 2.8 km of trails designed for skate skiing and almost 8 km of classic trails. There’s a heated trailer to gear up. What's more, you can get there by metro, just a 5-minute walk away. No rentals.
Located northwest of the island of Montreal, this peaceful oasis is part of the Grands Parcs de l’Ouest and is bordered by Lac des Deux Montagnes and Rivière des Prairies. You will find 7 km of groomed trails in the heart of the park. It’s a nice place to take in the fresh air. No rental facilities on-site.
In the heart of the Villeray district, Parc Jarry, has only one trail which circles the pond for an easy 2.1 km. Beginners and families will be pleased with this spot. Free parking, but no rentals.
In winter, the Canal Lachine is transformed into a magical winter trail that stretches from Old Montreal into Lachine. You can glide along the frozen river while admiring the view of Montreal's Old Port. This unique experience combines the pleasure of cross-country skiing with the historic beauty of the city.
Parc Frédéric Back is located 10 km north of downtown. If you are itching to glide into groomed lanes, the park landscape offers two easy (1.5 and 5.7 km) and one moderate (1.1 km) trails that will please outdoor enthusiasts. You can even borrow equipment during weekends and park for free at Tohu.
Having the right gear will make your ski experience much better. First, you need to select cross-country skis suited to your level and the type of trails you plan to explore.
Classic skis are ideal for beginners and offer good stability, while skate skis are designed for faster gliding and are ideal for more experienced skiers.
Ski poles need to be the right length for efficient pushing. Boots should be comfortable and offer good ankle support.
Wearing the right clothes does make a difference. Make sure you dress in layers to stay warm without overheating as you take on the trails. And don’t forget your sunglasses to protect you from UV rays. The right gear will go a long way to making your cross-country skiing experience enjoyable and safe.
Stay safe by keeping an eye on the weather conditions and avoid skiing in bad weather. Finally, be aware of your fitness level and don't try to surpass your limitations, especially in difficult conditions.
Also, before heading out, be sure to leave your itinerary with someone you trust and ensure that you have a charged cell phone in case of emergency.
Nutrition and hydration play an essential role in the performance and comfort of cross-country skiing. During the activity, it's important to maintain a balanced diet, focusing on complex carbohydrates for energy, proteins for muscle recovery, and healthy fats for endurance. In addition, stay well hydrated by drinking water regularly, even in cold weather, to avoid dehydration.
Don’t forget to bring a first aid kit with you, as well as a headlamp, because the natural daylight fades quickly during the winter. When you are skiing, stay on the marked trails and follow the rules in place. What's more, having basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skills can be invaluable in the event of a serious accident.
It’s easy to enjoy cross-country skiing in Montreal. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, there’s something for everyone. Happy skiing!
