The P'tit Train du Nord is a cycling legend of the Laurentians. Built on the former rail line that once carried passengers and goods northward, this linear park today stretches roughly 234 km, from the southern Laurentians up to Mont-Laurier. It's one of the most beloved paths in Québec, and for good reason.
Gentle elevation, old stations turned into cafés and rest stops, picturesque villages, forests and rivers: everything comes together for a memorable cycling experience. In this guide, we tell you all about the sections, the services, the most beautiful stretches and how to make the most of this legendary path, whether you ride solo, as a couple or with the family.
The P'tit Train du Nord takes its name from the train that once served the Laurentians. When the rail line ceased operations, the right-of-way was converted into a linear park dedicated to cycling in summer and outdoor activities in winter. This railway origin explains why the route is so pleasant to pedal.
This transformation of a former rail line into a linear park is part of a broader movement in Québec and elsewhere, where former transportation infrastructure finds a second life serving the outdoors. The P'tit Train du Nord is one of the finest examples, and it has inspired other similar developments across the province. As you ride, you can still spot remnants of the railway era: bridges, rails, original buildings and interpretive panels that tell the region's history.
The path's surface varies by section, and it's useful to know this before setting out. Some sections are paved, which is ideal for road bikes and child trailers, while others are covered in compacted stone dust, perfect for hybrid and mountain bikes.
If you're specifically after the asphalt portions, plan your departure in the southern sector. To scout out surfaces and distances, check our bike paths map.
One of the great assets of the P'tit Train du Nord is its very gradual elevation. Because the path follows the former rail line, the grades stay gentle, making it an accessible route even for occasional cyclists and children.
That said, keep in mind that the portion toward Mont-Laurier climbs gradually northward. Many cyclists therefore choose to ride from north to south to enjoy a slight descent over much of the route. A little tip that makes the experience even more pleasant.
In practical terms, this gentle elevation means you can cover good distances without exhausting yourself. A family with young children can easily complete 15 to 25 km in a day, with breaks, while a fitter cyclist will eat up 60, 80 or even 100 km without major difficulty. It's this versatility that explains why the path appeals as much to beginners as to seasoned cycle tourists. Whatever your level, you'll find a pace that suits you.
Riding the P'tit Train du Nord is also a journey through time. The old stations dotting the route have been restored and turned into rest stops, tourist information offices, cafés and restaurants. They're perfect stops to recharge and discover local history.
These stops aren't just practical: they're part of the experience. Taking a break at an old station, reading the interpretive panels and imagining the trains of old means immersing yourself in the history of the Laurentians. Several stations also host local markets, microbreweries or terraces where you can enjoy a meal after the effort. I strongly recommend setting aside time to stop rather than powering through in one go. It's often during these breaks that the best travel memories are made.
Don't feel like doing the round trip? No problem. Several companies offer shuttle services that drop you at a starting point and pick you up at the finish, or transport your luggage from one stage to the next. It's very handy for riding the path one way.
For gear or advice before setting out, drop by our partner shops, and use the planner to organize your stages.
If you only have a day, aim for the most spectacular sections. Two areas always come up among cyclists' favourites.
These areas combine scenic beauty, quality services and a friendly atmosphere. It's the very essence of the best the P'tit Train du Nord has to offer.
Beyond these two stars, don't overlook the less frequented northern sections, toward Labelle and Mont-Laurier. There you'll find wilder nature, welcome tranquility and a sense of wide-open space. If you're looking to get away from the summer crowds, these stretches are well worth the detour. To plan your route based on your preferences, the planner helps you choose your start and end points.
For a multi-day trip, lodging is plentiful. From Saint-Jérôme to Mont-Laurier, you'll find inns, B&Bs, hotels and campgrounds, many of them "Bienvenue cyclistes!" certified and offering tailored services.
The cycling season on the P'tit Train du Nord generally runs from late spring to fall. Each period has its charm, and the choice depends on the atmosphere you're after.
To avoid the summer crowds, head out early in the morning or favour weekdays. The fall sunsets over the rivers and mountains are worth the trip on their own. Whatever period you choose, check the path conditions and service hours before setting out, especially early and late in the season. The planner and our tools help you prepare your outing based on weather and distance.
The P'tit Train du Nord is arguably one of the best paths in Québec for family riding. The gentle elevation, the well-maintained surface, the many rest stops and the absence of car traffic make it a safe and pleasant environment for children.
Choose a short section suited to the age and endurance of the youngest, plan frequent breaks at the stations and turn the outing into a little adventure. For more family route ideas, check our guide to the most beautiful bike paths in Québec.
A few tips make life easier with children. Set out with plenty of snacks, allow more time than you think and let the kids set the pace. The stations turned into rest stops become motivation points: promise an ice cream or a juice at the next station to keep spirits up. And don't forget the basics, like well-fitted helmets, a bit of sunscreen and something to handle minor scrapes. A successful family outing is, above all, one where everyone has fun, no matter the distance covered.
The P'tit Train du Nord is the perfect invitation to slow down, breathe in the Laurentian air and savour every pedal stroke. Whether you choose a short ride around Val-David or the full route up to Mont-Laurier, you'll come away with your head full of memories.
Plan your outing now with the planner, check out the cycling events in the Laurentians and find the tools you need to prepare well. The path is waiting for you.
The Le P'tit Train du Nord linear park is about 234 km, connecting the southern Laurentians, around Saint-Jérôme, up to Mont-Laurier in the north.
The paved sections are found mainly in the southern portion, closer to Saint-Jérôme. The farther north you go, the more the surface becomes compacted stone dust.
Absolutely. With its gentle elevation, well-maintained surface and many rest stops, it's one of the most family-friendly paths in Québec. Just choose a short section for the youngest riders.
Yes. Several companies offer shuttle and luggage-transport services, which let you ride the path one way without having to retrace your steps.
