Mont-Tremblant Half Marathon: the ideal summer destination race

Mont Tremblant is a killer ski destination, but its charms are not limited to winter. The Laurentians are lush with trails, lakes and rivers and offer endless outdoor recreation opportunities year-round for the whole family. Runners will love the Demi-Marathon Mont-Tremblant (a.k.a. the Mont Tremblant Half Marathon), which is hosted by a tight-knit community that is driven by a passion for the great outdoors.

This year’s event takes place on Aug. 14–perfect timing for your family vacation, or as a tune-up race for a fall marathon. The point-to-point course starts at the Tremblant resort, winds its way on local paths, paved biking trails through the forest, along the river’s edge, beside a deliciously cool lake and along back roads, ending with a sprint down the main street toward City Hall.

Locals are justifiably proud of the area, and are very hospitable toward tourists visiting for the race. The whole town comes out to race, cheer or volunteer; it’s a chance for them to highlight their Quebec culture and showcase the natural paradise they call home. And you’re guaranteed to vow to return and savour the region’s many offerings, which can hardly be enjoyed in a single visit.

As the local Mont-Tremblant runners will tell you, the course is not flat–it’s just awesome. Although you will encounter lots of hills on the course, it’s a net downhill race (i.e., you will go down more than you go up). Not quite ready for a hilly half-marathon? No problem–there is also a 10K, a 5K and, for the little ones, a 1K kids’ race. You will feel the excitement in the fresh mountain air. There is live entertainment, a free event expo all weekend, and loads of surprises. After you snag your finisher medal, the post-race festivities include lunch (and even cold beer, for those over 18), to make you quickly forget your straining quads and let those post-race endorphins take over.

Whether you’re looking for a runner’s high this summer as you push to take the podium, or just want to walk 5K with friends, lace up your sneakers and head over to the Laurentians. The Demi-marathon de Mont-Tremblant is a family-friendly event you won’t want to miss.

The details

Mont-Tremblant Half-Marathon
Date: Aug. 14, 2022
Distances: 21.1K, 10K, 5K, 1K
Registration fees: $20 to $85 (there is also a parent/child team rate)
Website: demimarathontremblant.com

Where to stay

The Mont Tremblant area has a multitude of offerings for accommodation, including campgrounds, hotels and condos. Just a few examples:

Fairmont Mont Tremblant: Located in the village, the Fairmont offers a variety of rooms, suites and condos plus luxurious amenities, including indoor and outdoor pools, hot tub, spa and restaurants.

Maison Napoléon:Also in the village, this “luxury/rustic” bed & breakfast has four charming guestrooms and serves a hearty and delicious breakfast, made with local ingredients, to fuel your day’s activities.

Bel-Air Tremblant:Looking for something different? Bel-Air Tremblant has mini-lofts, domes and pods with all the amenities of a hotel, in an offbeat package.

Camping de la Montagne d’Argent: Just a few kilometres from the village, this campground has a sandy beach and is close to hiking trails.

Where to eat

O Café Vieux Tremblant in the village is a great choice for breakfast or brunch, with pastries, baked goods, smoothie bowls and locally-roasted coffee.

Seb–l’Artisan Culinaire dishes up local and seasonal bistro-style offerings, including seafood, grilled meat, vegetarian and gluten-free choices, plus a sophisticated wine list.

Resto-Bar Le Shack is located right at the foot of the ski hills and is a great meeting place for friends or family, with indoor and outdoor dining options and giant screens for sports fans.

Things to do after your race

The area is full of outdoor adventure options, including beaches, canoeing, kayaking, hiking and biking trails, a casino and entertainment for pre- and post-race relaxation. For more information on all the region has to offer, including restaurants and lodging suggestions, click here.