Winter transforms Val-David into a real playground for all those who like to move, explore and experience nature up close. Nestled in the heart of the Laurentians, the village is known for its snowy landscapes, its impeccably maintained trails and its warm atmosphere which attracts athletes, active families, adventurous couples and groups of friends in search of memorable experiences every year.

Between the kilometers of trails on the P’tit Train du Nord, the snowshoe climbs in the Val-David–Val-Morin Regional Park, the fatbike outings or the adrenaline-filled descents, everyone can find their own rhythm and style of adventure. Val-David is the place where winter activities are not just a simple outing: they become a real immersion in the Quebec outdoors.

In this guide, you will discover the best activities to do this winter, from unmissable sporting experiences to moments of relaxation after a busy day, including ideas for stays with friends. Prepare your warm clothes: winter in Val-David is waiting for you.

Key points for discovering the best winter activities

  • Val-David offers some of the best winter activities in the Laurentians, accessible and varied.
  • The cross-country skiing on the P’tit Train du Nord and in the Regional Park is a must for all levels.
  • The snowshoe trails offer exceptional panoramas and routes suitable for both leisurely outings and sporting challenges.
  • Hiking with crampons allows you to take advantage of groomed or busy trails. For example when the snow is compacted or icy
  • Adrenaline lovers will appreciate the fatbike on snow and sliding or off-piste descents.
  • The village offers a perfect atmosphere for post-sports: local restaurants, cafes, events and workshops.
  • The Val-David chalets are ideal for stays with friends, with direct access to outdoor activities.
  • Val-David perfectly combines nature, sport, relaxation and culture, which makes it an essential winter destination in Quebec.


The essential winter activities for getting active in Val-David

Val-David is undoubtedly one of the most dynamic villages in the Laurentians when it comes to winter sports. Thanks to its hilly territory, its dense forests and its proximity to the legendary P’tit Train du Nord, the village offers ideal terrain for moving, exploring and pushing your limits. Whether you are a seasoned sportsman, an outdoor enthusiast or a group of friends looking for an active outing, here you will find a range of winter activities perfectly suited to all levels. The trails are well maintained, accessible and above all varied, which allows you to enjoy winter in several forms, from long, leisurely hikes to more intense routes.

In this first section, we explore two pillars of winter in Val-David: cross-country skiing and snowshoe hiking. These activities remain the most popular, because they offer a perfect mix of physical effort, contemplation and total immersion in Laurentian nature.


Cross-country skiing on the P’tit Train du Nord and the trails of the Regional Park

Cross-country skiing is probably the most emblematic activity in Val-David, and for good reason: the sector brings together some of the most beautiful trails in the Laurentians. The P’tit Train du Nord, a former railway that has become a multi-function trail, offers more than 20 kilometers of perfectly groomed routes between Val-David, Val-Morin and Sainte-Agathe.

It is ideal for:

  • athletes who want to accumulate kilometers;
  • groups of friends looking for a challenge;
  • moderate pace outings to enjoy the landscape.

For those who want a wilder setting, the Val-David–Val-Morin regional park offers more technical and hilly trails, perfect for lovers of classic cross-country skiing and skateboarding. There are several levels: easy, intermediate and advanced, which allows you to vary the routes during the same stay.

The panoramas are exceptional: snow-capped peaks, conifers heavy with snow, hidden valleys... it’s a setting that makes you want to come back every year.

Snowshoe hiking: the most panoramic trails

If you prefer to take your time while working on your cardio, snowshoe hiking is the perfect activity. The trails in the Regional Park are among the most beautiful in Quebec, particularly those leading to Mont Condor, Mont King and the Dufresne sector.

Why choose snowshoeing in Val-David?

  • The varied terrain allows for both sporty climbs and gentler walks.
  • The views are spectacular, especially at sunrise or sunset.
  • The snowy undergrowth gives a magical and totally exotic atmosphere.

It is an ideal activity for friends or a couple who want to combine effort and contemplation. Many visitors also appreciate the “soft adventure” aspect: no need to be an expert, the trails are well marked and safe.

For those looking for a more athletic challenge, some courses include sustained climbs offering a real cardio workout.

Thrilling winter experiences and adventures with friends

If Val-David is renowned for its peaceful trails and enchanting landscapes, it is also a destination of choice for those looking for a more intense, sportier and above all more fun winter. Athletes, groups of friends and adrenaline seekers will find here several activities capable of transforming a simple outing into a truly memorable winter experience. Thanks to the natural relief of the region and the local infrastructure, Val-David offers activities that go beyond the usual framework of cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, ideal for varying the pleasures.

In this section, we dive into two activities perfect for a dynamic winter day: fatbiking on snow – increasingly popular – and thrilling descents, whether sliding, sledding or even off-piste excursions in less frequented areas.

Off-piste skiing, including alpine touring and telemark skiing, is mainly practiced in the Val-David–Val-Morin Regional Park. The Mont Plante sectors, reserved for intermediate to advanced level skiers, with the possibility of doing splitboard and splitboard, and Mont Alta offer ungroomed slopes, glades and varied elevations. Access is via a winter pass from the Park, some areas being specifically dedicated to off-piste, while others, like Mont Alta, offer a more versatile and accessible approach.


Fatbike on snow: explore Val-David differently

The fatbike on snow has become one of the most popular winter activities in the Laurentians, and Val-David is no exception to the trend. With its oversized tires, this winter bike allows you to ride on the snow as if you were on a summer trail... in a more intense version.

The Val-David–Val-Morin regional park, particularly the Dufresne sector, offers several kilometers specially dedicated to fatbiking. The trails are well maintained, with a mix of short climbs, long forest crossings and rolling descents that appeal to beginners and experienced cyclists alike.

This is an ideal activity:

  • for groups of friends who want a fun challenge,
  • for athletes looking for complete muscle training,
  • for those who want to discover Val-David from a different angle.

The sensations are unique: the silence of the snowy forest, the dull sound of the tires in the compacted snow and the sustained effort give an incomparable feeling of freedom.
 

Slides, off-piste and descents: where to find adrenaline in the region

For those who prefer speed and pure fun, head to the areas of slip and the small downhill areas around Val-David. Although the village does not have a large alpine ski resort on its territory, it is surrounded by sites perfect for thrilling activities.

Here are visitors' favorite options:

• Sled or sleigh rides
 Several natural climbs around the village, often accessible via the trails of the Regional Park, become real improvised trails in winter. Perfect for groups, with guaranteed laughs.

• Light off-piste
 The steeper trails sometimes allow for short descents on snowshoes or boots, ideal for adventurers who want to add a little spice to the day.

• Stations in the immediate vicinity
 5–10 minutes from Val-David are resorts like Blue Valley and Beautiful Snow, perfect for quick descents without the crowds of big resorts.

Here, the objective is simple: enjoy the snow in a different way, move, laugh and share a great moment with friends.

Val-David in winter: relaxation, local experiences and warm accommodation

After a day of hiking snowy trails, pedaling a fatbike or sliding down the slopes on a sled, Val-David reveals another face that is just as attractive: that of relaxation, local discoveries and warm evenings. The village is known for its artistic ambiance, independent cafes, authentic restaurants and chalets nestled in the forest. It’s the perfect place to complement a sporting day with quieter moments – whether you’re a couple, family or friends.

The strength of Val-David lies in its ability to combine physical effort with the sweetness of life. Here you can go from intense exertion in the great outdoors to a hot chocolate in a local café, then end the evening around a fire in a cozy chalet. Winter is one of the most beautiful seasons to feel this harmony between activity and relaxation.

In this section, let's find out how to fully enjoy Val-David once the boots are off and your cheeks are still pink from the cold.


Restaurants, cafes and after-sport activities to discover

Val-David is a gourmet and vibrant village, with a surprising culinary scene for a small municipality. After a good outing in the snow, cafes and restaurants become perfect places to recharge your batteries.

Some essentials:

  • Café C’est la Vie : ideal for hot coffee, homemade pastries and a sincere local atmosphere.
  • The Black Sheep : a Laurentian classic, perfect for a good comforting meal after a day of skiing or snowshoeing.
  • Soma's House : healthy dishes, zen atmosphere, perfect for those who want to combine pleasure and conscious eating.
  • Microbreweries and bars : several options nearby allow you to continue the evening smoothly or to celebrate a sporting outing with friends.

In addition to restaurants, Val-David offers several after-sport activities :

  • Local artisan workshops
  • Winter evenings in the village
  • Seasonal cultural events
  • Spas and wellness centers a few minutes from the heart of the village

It’s the perfect opportunity to discover the soul of the village – warm, creative and welcoming.

Chalets and stays with friends: why Val-David is an ideal winter destination

Val-David is also one of the favorite destinations for chalet stays in the Laurentians. Winter creates a magical atmosphere: heavy snow on the fir trees, soothing silence, evenings by the fire... and direct access to outdoor trails.

Why choose a chalet in Val-David?

  • Immediate access to winter activities : cross-country skiing, snowshoes, fatbike, slides... often accessible directly from the chalet or less than five minutes away.
  • Ideal space for groups of friends : spacious chalets, equipped kitchens, comfortable lounges, atmosphere conducive to convivial evenings.
  • Flexibility : everyone can choose their activity for the day – long hike, fatbike outing, walk in the village – and meet at the end of the day for a shared meal..

Many visitors also appreciate the fact that Val-David combines the tranquility of a village surrounded by nature… with quick access to neighboring villages like Val-Morin, Sainte-Agathe and Saint-Sauveur. This allows you to vary your activities during a winter stay without having to travel too much.

Why Val-David is one of the best winter destinations in the Laurentians

Val-David offers a rare balance between adventure, sport, relaxation and a warm atmosphere. Whether you are a cross-country skier, a snowshoe hiker, a thrill-seeker or simply someone who wants to fully enjoy winter in an enchanting setting, this Laurentian village has it all.

Its exceptional regional park, its varied trails, its snowy landscapes and its activities accessible to all levels make it a destination of choice for athletes as well as for groups of friends or active couples. Far from the crowds of the big resorts, Val-David allows you to experience an authentic winter, close to nature and filled with memorable moments.

Add to that welcoming restaurants, cozy cafés and a variety of chalets perfect for extending the experience, and you get one of the best places to experience the cold season in Quebec. If you're looking for a winter destination that combines effort, fun and relaxation, Val-David should undoubtedly be at the top of your list.