For your level

With its flat 2.1 km long trail, Parc Jarry’s is perfect for families and beginners. Parc-nature de l’Île-de-la-Visitation has short distance trails that beginners will appreciate, with stunning views overlooking the Rivière des Prairies.

Parc La Fontaine has 2 trails measuring 3.9 km that run across the western part of the park, while parc Jeanne-Mance has a 1.3 km trail. The trail at Parc Maisonneuve is especially peaceful and well-suited to developing your technique.

Île Sainte-Hélène at parc Jean-Drapeau has a 5.4 km trail for more advanced cross country skiiers. Mount Royal Park’s altitude and 22 km of groomed trail make it a fantastic place to challenge yourself. The park also offers cross country skiing lessons for children and adults

Parc Angrignon has 10.5 km of wooded trails with views of the frozen pond along the way, while Parc-nature du Bois-de-Liesse offers 10 km of trails for classic cross country skiing.

Skate skiing

Put your cardio to the test by going to one of 4 parks that have trails specially designed for skate skiing: Angrignon (2.8 km), Mont-Royal (about 4 km), Maisonneuve (2.7 km), Parc-nature du Bois-de-Liesse (3 km loop in the Camille sector) and Parc-nature du Cap-Saint-Jacques (1,75 km).

The great outdoors

The Botanical Garden’s outdoor spaces can be visited free of charge. They are a very popular destination for skiiers who also enjoy birdwatching.

Parc-nature de la Pointe-aux-Prairies is sure to delight those who are curious about wildlife. Along the 11 km of trail, you may see Virginia deer. Along the 14 km of trails in the Parc-nature du Cap-Saint-Jacques, with its breathtaking views of the waterfront, you can see tracks in the snow left by a variety of wild animals. The Parc-nature du Bois-de-L’Ile-Bizard, with over 9 km of trails, is also a great option for skiing in nature.

Take in the view

The 22.8 km of cross country ski trails in southwestern Montréal (in French) reveal an enchanting view over the frozen river.

Along 4 km of trails at Parc René-Lévesque, you can admire contemporary sculptures by renowned artists.

The low lying Parc Frédéric-Back offers an endless landscape away from the city lights, making it one of the best places in Montréal to observe the night sky.

Equipment loans and rentals

Cross country skis can be borrowed at Parc Frédéric-Back on Saturdays and Sundays and during March break.

You can rent cross country skis in most nature parks and Mount Royal Park.

The Pointe-aux-Prairies, l’Île-de-la-Visitation and Cap-Saint-Jacques parks also rent cross country sit skis.