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Gravelle Laurentides: 6 gravel routes to discover
6 minutes
With its kilometres of gravel roads, quiet country roads and scenic mountain landscapes, the Laurentians are a destination of choice for gravel cycling enthusiasts.
Whether you're new to gravel riding or planning a multi-day adventure, the Laurentians offer a vast natural playground with routes suited to every skill level.
To showcase everything the region has to offer, Gravelle Laurentides has developed six gravel routes that let you experience the Laurentians from a whole new perspective.
Developed by the Société de plein air des Pays-d'en-Haut (SOPAIR) in collaboration with regional partners Gravelle Laurentides is an initiative designed to promote sustainable tourism while showcasing the Laurentians through routes created specifically for gravel riding.
To bring this vision to life, Gravelle Laurentides features six loops that combine gravel roads, paved roads, bike paths and natural trails to create a diverse and accessible riding experience.
Each route has been designed to highlight the region's natural and cultural treasures, taking riders through forests, mountains, charming villages and regional parks. Along the way, you'll have plenty of opportunities to stop at local cafés, restaurants and breweries, as well as choose from a variety of nearby accommodation options for longer adventures.
By developing routes that respect the natural environment and are created in collaboration with local communities, Gravelle Laurentides invites you to experience the Laurentians in an authentic way, one pedal stroke at a time.
1. La Retraite de l’Ouest
Starting point: Corridor Aérobique Park, Morin-Heights
La Retraite de l'Ouest is designed for experienced cyclists who enjoy long distances and technical routes. Completed over two days with an overnight camping stop, this loop offers a quieter side of the Laurentians, where the joy of the ride is just as rewarding as the destination itself.
Along the way, you'll ride through rolling farmland and quiet country roads while following winding rivers that showcase the region's natural beauty. It's the perfect opportunity to slow down, disconnect from the everyday and immerse yourself in nature while taking on a rewarding challenge.
- Level: very difficult
- Distance: 154 km
- Elevation gain: 1,494 m
- Duration: 2 days
- Surface: 20% paved roads, 80% gravel roads
2. Le P’tit Narval
Starting point: Corridor Aérobique Park, Morin-Heights
Le P'tit Narval is an excellent introduction to gravel riding. Accessible and well balanced, this loop is ideal for cyclists looking to build their skills and gain confidence on gravel roads in a welcoming setting.
Starting from Corridor Aérobique Park, the route heads toward Lac Notre-Dame before returning via Chemin Jackson. With scenic landscapes, enjoyable descents and moderate elevation gain, it's the perfect ride to build confidence and, who knows, catch the gravel riding bug.
- Level: intermediate
- Distance: 31.5 km
- Elevation gain: 411 m
- Duration: half-day
- Surface: 39% paved roads, 61% gravel roads
3. La P’tite Ourse
Starting point: Mont-Rolland train station, Sainte-Adèle
La P'tite Ourse is a 71 km loop that takes you to the heart of Val-David, one of the Laurentians' most iconic villages, known for its vibrant arts scene, welcoming atmosphere and easy access to nature.
You can choose to ride the full route from Sainte-Adèle or opt for a shorter version by starting in downtown Val-David. Either way, you'll travel through diverse landscapes, quiet villages and scenic roads that strike the perfect balance between an enjoyable ride and discovering the region.
The route combines gravel roads, paved roads, quiet back roads and faster rolling sections. It's an excellent challenge for intermediate riders looking to build their skills while exploring everything Val-David and the surrounding area have to offer.
- Level: intermediate
- Distance: 71 km
- Elevation gain: 621 m
- Duration: 1 day
- Surface: 52% paved roads, 48% gravel roads
4. La P’tite Boréale
Starting point: Morin-Heights
La P'tite Boréale is a 106 km route designed for experienced cyclists looking to take on an endurance challenge. Depending on your goals, you can complete the loop in a single day or split the distance over two days with an overnight camping stop.
Throughout the ride, you'll alternate between gravel roads, paved roads, sustained climbs and more technical sections that will put both your skills and endurance to the test.
The route also passes through remarkable natural areas, including the Jackrabbit Ecological Reserve and Éco-Laurentides Park, where you'll be immersed in the region's rugged wilderness.
- Level: difficult
- Distance: 106 km
- Elevation gain: 1,168 m
- Duration: 1 or 2 days
- Surface: 40% paved roads, 60% gravel roads
5. La Monroe
Starting point: Lac-Monroe Service Centre
La Monroe is the perfect route for a family gravel ride or for cyclists who are new to gravel riding. This 13 km loop winds through the iconic landscapes of the Laurentians in the heart of Mont-Tremblant National Park.
With minimal elevation gain and an accessible route, you can ride at your own pace while taking in the scenery and enjoying everything gravel riding has to offer.
- Level: very easy
- Distance: 13 km
- Elevation gain: 94 m
- Duration: half-day
- Surface: 30% paved roads, 70% gravel roads
6. La Grande Boréale
Starting point: Corridor Aérobique Park, Morin-Heights
La Grande Boréale is a 269 km route with 2,777 m of elevation gain designed for experienced cyclists looking to explore the Laurentians. Plan on four to five days to complete the full loop, with the flexibility to tailor each day's distance to your preferred pace.
Starting from Corridor Aérobique Park, the route passes through Mont-Tremblant National Park and several charming villages, offering plenty of opportunities to stop for a lakeside picnic or take a break at a local café, restaurant or microbrewery. You'll also have the freedom to choose from a variety of accommodation options, including campgrounds, inns and cottages.
- Level: very difficult
- Distance: 269 km
- Elevation gain: 2,777 m
- Duration: 4 to 5 days
- Surface: 37% paved roads, 63% gravel roads
Gravelle Laurentides offers a route for every type of ride. All that's left to do is choose the loop that best matches your skill level and the adventure you're looking for.
Before you head out, download the GPS track for your chosen route from the Gravelle Laurentides website and upload it to your bike computer. Then it's time to hop on your bike and enjoy the adventure.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about gravel cycling
What skill level do I need for gravel riding?
Gravel riding is suitable for cyclists of all skill levels. Beginners can start with routes featuring hard-packed gravel bike paths or well-maintained forest roads, while more experienced riders can take on greater elevation gain and more technical terrain. The key is choosing a route that matches your fitness level and riding experience.
What gear is essential for a gravel ride?
In addition to a helmet, it's recommended to bring plenty of water, energy snacks, a repair kit with a spare tube or tubeless repair plugs, a mini pump, a multi-tool, and either a GPS device or a smartphone. For longer rides in the Laurentians, a lightweight jacket and a basic first-aid kit are also recommended.
When is the best time to go gravel riding in the Laurentians?
The gravel riding season generally runs from late spring through fall. May to October typically offers the best riding conditions, depending on the weather and road conditions. Before heading out, it's always a good idea to check current trail and road conditions, especially after heavy rain or during the spring thaw.
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