Le p'tit train du Nord, a hidden gem in the heart of the Laurentians

A fascinating multi-functional haven of peace to discover...

Nestled in the heart of the Laurentians, known for its breathtaking and tranquil landscapes, the P'tit Train du Nord linear trail is one of the most magnificent and popular tourist attractions in Quebec, Canada. This multifunctional trail (also called linear park) provides access to many points of interest in the region and offers a rich tourist content.

It is a multi-functional regional recreation and tourism corridor offering users access to recreational activities, high quality transportation with exceptional views and an unparalleled experience through picturesque forests and beautiful landscapes. It offers activities ranging from cross-country skiing to snowshoeing, walking, running, hiking, cycling and snowmobiling.

Are you looking for beautiful scenery? Do you want to practice your favourite sport along lakes, in the middle of wooded hills, sneak through quiet villages or simply go back in time by travelling through the old rails of the Laurentian railway? This article is for you.

At the origin of the P'tit Train du Nord

Thehistory of the P'tit Train du Nord is as old as that of the Laurentian region. It was originally a railway built between 1891 and 1909 that linked Saint-Jérôme and Mont-Laurier for the transportation of passengers and luggage. The first section, linking Montreal and Saint-Jérôme, was inaugurated on October 8, 1876. In 1882, the Canadian Pacific Railway bought the right-of-way and extended the line, which reached the town of Mont-Laurier in 1909. For a long time, it played a key role in the economic development of the region and the Quebec government, but its transportation activities ceased in 1981.

In 1994, the Quebec government purchased the railway right-of-way from the Canadian Pacific and entrusted its management to a board of directors. Thus, the P'tit Train du Nord was given a new life. The rail corridor was gradually converted into a multi-use recreational trail starting in 1996 with the completion of the first phase in Bois-des-Filion. The rails were torn up, the old stations were transformed into museums and cafés, and the old railway bed was converted into a linear recreational and tourist trail.

P'tit train du Nord, a popular tourist attraction

If you're looking for beautiful sights, the "Le P'tit Train du Nord" trail is one of the best, most peaceful and relaxing places to get away from it all within an hour of Montreal. It is a place for wildlife observation and a gateway to natural areas with beautiful scenery. In winter, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling are practiced. In summer, a variety of summer activities are available to choose from, including walking, hiking or cycling.

This bike trail was named "one of the top five cycling routes in Canada" by Adventure Cycling magazine (May/June 2006). In fact, it is one of Canada's most popular bike touring destinations and bike/hiking trails.

The route of the P'tit Train du Nord

The P'tit Train du Nord Linear Park stretches from Mont-Laurier, which is at the southern end of the trail, to Saint-Jérôme at the northern end. There are many towns and villages along the trail where you can camp during your trip and enjoy friendly bed & breakfasts and many pleasant services.

In order to better understand the route of this trail, Tourisme Laurentides offers you a map of the park. Along the way, you will see magnificent landscapes, picturesque villages and numerous small wild animals.

We have several properties for rent from which you can access the trail in a few minutes by car.

The 5 rules of thumb to know when you visit

The P'tit Train du Nord is governed by a regulation of the MRC des Laurentides :

• Walking with animals is prohibited. A team of police officers carries out awareness raising and, if necessary, punishes recalcitrant users
• Pedestrians must walk on the left side of the road, against the direction of the cyclists and skaters who walk on the right.
• Overtaking in the left-hand lane is permitted where it is safe to do so.
• The maximum speed on the track is limited to 22 km/h.
• To minimize the risk of contagion of covid, you must respect the health instructions issued by the Quebec government. if you have symptoms of covid, stay home and consult a doctor. Nearly 60 volunteer patrollers trained in health care are present (you can fill out a contact form available in digital version if you are interested in becoming a patroller).

What do travellers say?

The linear park "le p'tit train du nord" is an old railway line transformed into a hiking, cycling and cross-country skiing trail. But what do travellers experience on this path? Over 95% of 115 travellers surveyed on tripadvisor found it very good or excellent. They recommend trying the adventure because they have had good and pleasant experiences.

Some travellers express their feelings of freedom and adventure on this route. Others report on their discovery of many picturesque forests, beautiful landscapes and beautiful old-fashioned railway stations transformed into service points, etc.

Discovering similar attractions in Canada

Like the linear park "le petit train du nord", the Laurentian region is full of many interesting tourist projects. Below are the other wonders you can visit during your next holiday in the Maple Country if you are looking for tourist diversity.

• The Chemin du Terroir des Laurentides is a marked path of more than 226 kilometres criss-crossing a rural territory with a thousand treasures.
• Parc régional du Poisson Blanc is a vast territory dedicated to the practice of outdoor activities in Notre-Dame-du-Laus
• Baskatong Reservoir is set in an enchanting 320 square kilometre area encompassing five lakes
• Village of Saint-Sauveur: A picturesque village located in the heart of the mountains and only 45 minutes from Montreal, you will be charmed by its typical beauty, its quiet lakes and its biodiversity.
• Parc national du Mont-Tremblant Located 30 minutes from the Mont-Tremblant resort, this is a haven of peace where lakes, rivers and protected forests invite you to discover.
• Montagne du Diable Regional Park is located in the municipality of Ferme-Neuve (Antoine-Labelle RCM, Quebec, Canada) and is home to a remarkable forest with beautiful vegetation.

FAQ

What is the Little Train of the North?

It is a linear trail that follows the route of the old railway of the same name. It extends 234 kilometres between Bois-des-Filion and Mont-Laurier. It is part of the Trans Canada Trail network.

Walking, hiking, cycling and many other summer and winter activities are practiced here.

How to get to the starting point of this trail?

A shuttle bus service is available to take you from downtown Quebec City to the departure point.

Why should I discover the little train of the north?

Connecting with nature, enjoying a family activity, having fun with friends, cycling or rollerblading, practising your favourite sport.... are all good reasons to visit this route!

What languages are spoken on the Little Train of the North?

French and English are commonly used. All signs along the railway provide information in French and English.

Is the trail accessible to people with reduced mobility?

Yes, people with reduced mobility can also take part in activities adapted to their physical condition.

Practical information

The Little Train of the North

Administration - Prévost Station - Welcome

1272 Rue de la Traverse, Prévost, QC J0R 1T0

Telephone contact: 450 745-0185
[email protected]

Website

Facebook: https: //www.facebook.com/ptittraindunord/

 

Bus le Petit Train du Nord

For information and reservations:
Monday - Friday 8 am - 7 pm / Saturday - Sunday 8 am - 5 pm
Telephone contact : (450) 569-5596
E-mail: (450) 569-5596[email protected]

Website

 

Laurentian Tourist Information Office

La Porte-du-Nord rest area
Exit 51 of Highway 15
Telephone contact : (450) 224-7007
Email:[email protected]

Website