The little train of the north: 5 things you need to know!
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 Laurentian Mountains known for its breathtaking and tranquil scenery, the P’tit Train du Nord linear trail is one of the most beautiful 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, biking and snowmobiling.
Are you looking for beautiful landscapes? Do you want to practice your favorite sport along lakes, in the middle of wooded hills, sneak through quiet villages or simply go back in time by traveling through the old rails of the Laurentian railroad? This article speaks to 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 railroad 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 track, 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 Railway and entrusted its management to a board of directors. Thus, the P’tit Train du Nord had 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 have been torn up, the old stations have been turned into museums and cafes, and the former rail bed has been 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 and most peaceful and relaxing places to get away from it all within an hour of Montreal. It is a place to observe the fauna and flora as well as a gateway to natural areas with beautiful landscapes. In winter, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling are practiced. In the summer, a variety of summer activities are available to choose from, including walking, hiking or biking.
This bike path was named “One of the top five bike paths in Canada” by Adventure Cycling magazine (May/June 2006). It is one of Canada’s most popular cycling destinations and bike/hiking trails.
The route of the P’tit Train du Nord
Le p’tit train du Nord linear park extends 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 nice services.
In order to better understand the road map of this trail, Tourisme Laurentides offers you here a map of the park. Along the way, you will see beautiful landscapes, picturesque villages and many small wild animals
We have several properties for rent from which you can access the trail within a few minutes drive.
The 5 rules of thumb to know during your visit
The P’tit Train du Nord is governed by a regulation of the MRC des Laurentides :
- Walking with animals is not allowed. A team of police officers conducts education 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.
- Passing in the left lane is permitted when it is safe to do so.
- The maximum speed of traffic 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 any symptoms of covid, stay home and see a doctor. There are nearly 60 volunteer patrollers trained in health care (you can fill out a contact form available digitally if you are interested in becoming a patroller).
What do travelers say?
The linear park le p’tit train du nord is an old railroad line transformed into a hiking, biking and cross-country skiing trail. But what do travelers experience on this path? Over 95% of 115 travelers surveyed on
tripadvisor
found it very good or excellent. They recommend trying the adventure because they have had great and enjoyable experiences.
Some travelers express their sense of freedom and adventure on this route. Others report on their discovery of many picturesque forests, beautiful landscapes and beautiful old 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 interesting tourist projects. Below are the other wonders you can visit during your next vacation in the Maple Country if you are looking for tourist diversity.
- The Chemin du Terroir des Laurentides is a marked trail of more than 226 kilometers crisscrossing a rural territory with a thousand treasures.
- Poisson Blanc Regional Park is a vast territory dedicated to outdoor activities in Notre-Dame-du-Laus
- Baskatong Reservoir has an enchanting 320 square kilometer setting that encompasses 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 located in the municipality of Ferme-Neuve (Antoine-Labelle RCM, Quebec, Canada), it shelters 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 railroad of the same name. It extends over 234 kilometers between Bois-des-Filion and Mont-Laurier. It is part of the Trans Canada Trail system.
Walking, hiking, biking 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?
Connect with nature, enjoy a family activity, have fun with friends, ride a bike or rollerblades, practice your favorite sport…. are all good reasons to visit this course!
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 limited mobility?
Yes, people with reduced mobility can also practice activities adapted to their physical condition.
Practical information
The Little Train of the North
Administration – Prevost Station – Home
1272 Rue de la Traverse, Prévost, QC J0R 1T0
Telephone contact: 450 745-0185
[email protected]
Facebook: https: //www.facebook.com/ptittraindunord/
Bus le Petit Train du Nord
For information and reservations:
Monday – Friday 8am – 7pm / Saturday – Sunday 8am – 5pm
Telephone contact : (450) 569-5596
Email:
[email protected]
Laurentian Tourist Information Office
Northern Gateway Rest Stop
Exit 51 from Highway 15
Telephone contact : (450) 224-7007
Email:[email protected]
