FOR A SUCCESSFUL START
First time at Mont Rigaud? Welcome! We've thought of everything so your day is simple, enjoyable, and memorable. Here are our best tips to help you get ready and make the most of your visit. This page covers everything you need to know before you come, when you arrive, and while you're on the mountain, so you can focus on what matters most: having fun.
A great day on the mountain starts well before you arrive. A few simple preparations make all the difference between a memorable day and an uncomfortable one. Here's what you need to know.
Before you head out on the trails, take a few minutes to get familiar with the basic rules. The mountain is a shared environment, and a few simple guidelines are all it takes for everyone to have a great day with peace of mind. Check out our Safety page to learn more about the mountain code of conduct, safe use of the chairlifts, trail signage, terrain park-specific rules, and equipment allowed on the trails.
Skiing burns energy. A good breakfast before heading out is the foundation of a successful day. On the mountain, physical exertion and the cold take their toll, and a drop in energy can turn a great day into a difficult one, especially with young children.
If you bring your lunch, you can eat it in the main lodge cafeteria, and when spring arrives, the Bistro terrace and the picnic tables at the base and the summit invite you to make the most of the sun. There are no microwaves on site, so plan meals that can be eaten cold or at room temperature. Also, remember to slip a snack into your pocket before heading up: an energy bar, nuts, or a piece of fruit. Hunger on the mountain strikes fast, and a snack within reach can save the day. Remember to keep your wrappers in your pockets and throw them in a trash can on your way back down.
Do you prefer to eat in? The cafeteria and Bistro Mont Rigaud await you with their comforting classics: hot chocolate, poutine, soup of the day, or nachos. At the summit, the Snack Shack is perfect for a quick break without having to go back down.
Snow is alive. From one day to the next, from one hour to the next, conditions can change. Corduroy groomed snow in the morning, snow softened by the sun in the afternoon: each type of snow offers a different experience. For a beginner, the best conditions are generally well-groomed snow, firm but not icy, which is often found at the beginning of the day.
Before you leave, check our Detailed Conditions page for the current trail status and snow conditions. At the beginning and end of the season, when temperatures are more variable, operating hours may be adjusted and certain trails may be closed. These decisions are often made very early in the morning, so get into the habit of checking one last time before you leave, even if you checked the day before.
> The real-time conditions on our Webcams
If this is your first visit to Mont Rigaud, a rechargeable access card will be given to you at the ticket office upon your arrival. Keep it safe: it is valid in both summer and winter, from one season to the next, and has no expiration date. On your next visits, reload it online before leaving and go straight to the lifts upon your arrival, without stopping at the ticket office.
Properly fitted equipment means more fun and a lower risk of injury. Skis that are too long, boots that are too big, or improperly adjusted bindings can make learning much harder than it needs to be.
If you bought used equipment or if yours hasn’t been taken out in a few years, have it checked before you hit the slopes. Our workshop handles binding adjustments, waxing, and sharpening to ensure everything is ready and safe.
Don't have equipment? Our turnkey rental service provides you with skis or a snowboard, boots, poles, and a helmet, selected according to your size and skill level by our team. Simple, fast, and hassle-free.
The goal is to stay warm and dry all day long. The key is to dress in layers: a thermal base layer against the skin (a tank top, t-shirt, or one-piece thermal underwear), a warm and insulating layer (wool sweater, hoodie, etc.), followed by a waterproof ski jacket and pants (avoid jeans and non-waterproof pants). Add a thin beanie ideally without a pom-pom, a neck warmer or scarf, warm and waterproof gloves, and good, long, warm socks.
It’s always practical to bring a spare pair of socks and mittens in your bag, in case the first pair gets wet.
Are you missing something? Our shop offers last-minute essentials: hand and foot warmer packs, neck warmers, beanies, mittens and gloves, etc.
CHECK THE WEATHER! Before leaving, check the weather in detail, not just the little icon that summarizes the day. A day showing a cloud can hide a sunny morning and a rainy afternoon, or vice versa. Look hour by hour: when precipitation is expected, how much will fall, the wind strength, and of course the sunset time if you are planning an evening outing. A good reading of the weather can turn an ordinary day into a perfect one.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT TIME TO LEARNFor a first experience, timing can make a big difference. During the week, the mountain is much quieter: short wait times at the lifts, more space in the learning area, and a relaxed atmosphere that encourages learning. This is often the ideal time for beginners. On weekends, the busiest times are generally between 10 a.m. and noon. To avoid the crowds, arrive right at opening at 9 a.m., or plan your session for the early afternoon. Evenings are also a great option: the atmosphere is unique, the trails are lit, and traffic is generally lower than during the day.
Learning to ski or snowboard is a lot more enjoyable when you start off on the right foot. An introductory lesson is the best way to discover the sport without stress and with the right reflexes from day one. The result: more fun, fewer bad habits, and the urge to come back for more.
Learning with friends or family is also an unforgettable experience that often creates memorable moments. And if you have any questions about the mountain, don't hesitate to ask our instructors in blue coats or our patrollers in red when you cross paths with them on the slopes. They are here to help you and their advice is worth its weight in gold.
Do you want to progress throughout the winter? Our 8 or 10-week seasonal programs offer structured progression in a friendly atmosphere where children meet their friends every week.
For more personalized support, our private lessons adapt to your pace and goals. A dedicated instructor, just for you or your family. This is often the option that makes the biggest difference for true beginners.
Our all-inclusive Iniski and Inisnow introductory packages are the easiest way to get started: lift ticket, equipment rental, and group lesson are bundled into a single, hassle-free package.
Whether you arrive by car or carpool, getting to Mont Rigaud is simple and stress-free. One parking lot at the base of the trails, an easy-to-find ticket counter, and everything you need to gear up before clicking into your skis. Here are a few pointers to help you start your day off right.
If you booked your rental online, head to the rental counter to pick up your equipment and have it fitted by our team. If you're bringing your own gear and it needs a quick adjustment or tune-up, our workshop is on-site.
Arrive a little earlier than planned, especially if you have kids or it's your first visit. It gives you time to get ready without any stress. You can change in your car, in the cafeteria, or in the lodge's basement, though space is limited.
For your valuables, avoid leaving them visible in your car: hide them in the trunk, bring them with you on the slopes, or use the small $1 lockers in the lodge's basement. Mont Rigaud is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
You'll also find the washrooms in the basement, handy for a quick stop before clicking into your skis.
If you have a rechargeable access card loaded online, you can head straight to the chairlifts when you arrive, no need to stop by the ticket counter. Otherwise, the ticket counter is located at the entrance of the main lodge.
Lines can get long on busy days, so buying online before you come is always a good idea.
You're geared up, your ticket's in hand, and you're ready to go. Here are a few pointers to help you feel right at home from your first steps on the snow.
Mont Rigaud is a mountain on a human scale: a single face, well-marked trails, and a learning zone that's easy to reach from the parking lot. We have 4 chairlifts: 2 magic carpets in the Learning Zone, and two quad chairs, the Doppelmayr and the Poma Express, that take you to the summit. You'll find your way around quickly, even on your first visit.
Trail maps are posted in several spots around the mountain: across from the washrooms in the main lodge, at the base of both quad chairlifts, and at the summit. Trail map brochures are also available throughout the lodge, easy to slip in your pocket and take with you. You can also check the map online or download it to your phone before heading out.
This is where it all begins. The Learning Zone is located at the base of the mountain, easily accessible from the parking lot. It's served by two magic carpets, those little moving walkways you'd recognize from airports, one of which is covered for colder or rainy days. There's always at least one carpet running at all times.
The magic carpets give access to the Pente-École, Gecko, and Yeti trails, three gentle runs well-suited for making your first turns with confidence, at your own pace, in a safe space dedicated to beginners.
Once you're at the summit, head for trails 1 – O'Keefe and 3 – Humpty Dumpty, our two top picks for beginners. Wide, gentle, and well-groomed, they're perfect for finding your balance, working on your first turns, and building confidence at your own pace. Check the trail map to spot them easily as soon as you reach the summit.
Falling is part of learning, don't worry about it. If you need help on the slopes, here's what to do.
Our patrollers are on the mountain at all times and are trained to help, whether it's a minor fall or a more serious situation. Don't hesitate to flag them down or ask another skier or snowboarder to call them for you. On the mountain, people are generally very supportive and happy to help.
In case of a medical emergency, call 911. You can also reach the resort at 450-451-0000 during business hours.
You did it! First runs, first turns, maybe a few memorable falls: you've got every reason to be proud. Time to celebrate.
You did it! First runs, first turns, maybe a few memorable falls: you've got every reason to be proud. Time to celebrate.
At the lodge, cozy up by the fireplace at the Bistro or the cafeteria to relive the day's best moments over a hot chocolate or a cold beer. At the summit, the Snack Shack also has something to toast with, and a view to match. And when the sun's out, the Bistro terrace and the picnic areas at the base and summit are perfect spots to soak up the last rays before heading home.
Don't miss our Après-Ski Live Music Nights: on winter Saturdays from 5 p.m., local artists take over the Bistro for a lively, warm-hearted evening of live music.
A great day on the mountain starts well before you arrive. A few simple preparations make all the difference between a memorable day and an uncomfortable one. Here's what you need to know.
CHECK THE WEATHER: Before leaving, check the weather in detail, not just the small icon that summarizes the day. Look hour by hour: when precipitation is expected, how much will fall, and the wind strength. A good reading of the weather can turn an ordinary day into a perfect one.
AFTER THE RAIN, BE CAUTIOUS: It's best to avoid the trails during or right after heavy rain. A good on-site test: if your bike leaves deep tracks in the mud, it's a sign the trails are too wet to ride. Waiting a few hours or rescheduling for another day is the best way to protect the trails and enjoy a better experience.
Before you head out, check our Detailed Conditions page to see the current state of the trails.
Before you hit the trails, take a few minutes to get familiar with the basic rules. Mountain bike trails are a shared environment, and a few simple guidelines are all it takes for everyone to have a great day with peace of mind.
Check out our Safety page to learn more about the mountain bike code of conduct, trail signage, safe use of the chairlift, and permitted equipment.
In Quebec, skiing is second nature. It's in our northern DNA, our parents did it, our grandparents too. But mountain biking is more recent. The sport has seen explosive growth in the province over the past few years, and a lot of people are discovering the trails for the first time. No worries: here are a few practical resources to help you get into the sport:
> WEB DOSSIER — Discover Mountain Biking — Vélo Québec
> VIDEO — Getting Started in Mountain Biking — Vélo Québec
In mountain biking, the goal is to be comfortable, mobile, and well-protected. Start with what you already have: a technical t-shirt or jersey that wicks away sweat well, shorts or pants that give your knees plenty of freedom, and flat-soled shoes with good grip.
As for protective gear, helmets are mandatory at Mont Rigaud, no exceptions. Sport glasses protect your eyes from branches, dust, and wind. Gloves prevent blisters and protect your hands in case of a fall. Knee and elbow pads are strongly recommended, especially for beginners. For those riding the chairlift to more technical trails, a full-face helmet and chest protector are recommended.
On cooler days, consider a light, windproof layer for the descents, speed cools you down fast. And don't forget sunscreen and bug spray for summer days in the forest.
Well-fitted gear means more fun, more control, and fewer chances of injury. Before your first ride, make sure your bike is in good shape and fits you properly: seat at the right height, brakes working well, tires properly inflated. If you don't have a bike or yours hasn't been out in a while, our rental service and workshop are here to help.
When it comes to choosing a bike, beginners usually go with a trail or enduro bike: versatile, stable, and comfortable, they suit the vast majority of trails at Mont Rigaud. Our rental service lets you try out different models before investing in your own bike.
As a reminder, helmets are mandatory at Mont Rigaud. A properly fitted helmet shouldn't move when you shake your head and should cover your forehead well. For more technical trails accessed via the chairlift, a full-face helmet is recommended.
> Choosing your mountain bike — Vélo Québec
TICKETS: Booking online is optional at Mont Rigaud, prices are the same online as at the ticket counter on-site. That said, if you already have a rechargeable access card, booking online lets you head straight to the trails and lifts when you arrive, no need to stop by the ticket counter.
RENTALS: For bike rentals, we strongly recommend booking in advance, especially on weekends and during school breaks. Quantities are limited and bikes go fast on nice sunny days. Also plan to arrive a bit earlier than planned to give yourself time to find the right bike, properly fitted to your size.
If this is your first visit to Mont Rigaud, a rechargeable access card will be given to you at the ticket office upon your arrival. Keep it safe: it is valid in both summer and winter, from one season to the next, and has no expiration date.
On future visits, reload it online before you head out and go straight to the trails and lifts when you arrive, no need to stop by the ticket counter. Note that the card isn't required for daily Hike & Fitness tickets.
Before you head out, check our Detailed Conditions page for the current state of the trails. Early in the season and after long periods of rain, certain trails may be temporarily closed to protect the surfaces. These decisions are often made very early in the morning, so make it a habit to check one last time before heading out, even if you already checked the day before.
Mountain biking burns a lot of energy. A good breakfast before you head out and a snack in your bag are the foundation of a great day. On the trails, an energy bar, some nuts, or a piece of fruit can make all the difference, especially on longer rides. Remember to bring plenty of water, the forest in summer can dehydrate you fast.
If you're bringing your own lunch, the picnic tables at the base and summit are perfect for eating outdoors. Remember to pack out your wrappers and leave no trace behind: the forest stays beautiful because we all take care of it together.
Note that the cafeteria is closed in the summer. To eat on-site, Bistro Mont Rigaud and the Snack Shack at the summit welcome you during their hours of operation. Our shop also sells snacks at all times: energy bars, nuts, Gatorade, and other essentials to recharge between rides. And for a well-deserved end to the day, ice cream and cold beers are available at the shop, the Bistro, and the Snack Shack.
Getting started in mountain biking is a lot more enjoyable when you begin with the right basics. A lesson with a certified instructor is the best way to avoid bad habits from the start and progress quickly with confidence. The result: more fun, less frustration, and the urge to come back for more.
Getting started in mountain biking is a lot more enjoyable when you begin with the right basics. A lesson with a certified instructor is the best way to avoid bad habits from the start and progress quickly with confidence. The result: more fun, less frustration, and the urge to come back for more.
For personalized coaching, our private lessons adapt entirely to your level, your pace, and your goals. Working on a specific part of your technique, tackling an obstacle that's been intimidating you, or simply discovering the trails with a pro by your side: it's the option that often makes the biggest difference for true beginners.
In a semi-private lesson, you share the session with a friend or family member, combining personalized coaching with the fun of progressing together.
For kids and adult beginners who want to progress throughout the season, our Sprockids programs offer a structured 7-week progression, in a friendly and supportive atmosphere. Available in spring and fall sessions.
Learning with friends or family is a memorable and often highly motivating experience. That said, mountain biking is a discipline that forgives mistakes less than skiing does: falling on dirt and rocks hurts a lot more than falling on snow.
If you choose this option, be sure to respect your limits, go at your own pace, and don't let yourself get talked into trails that are beyond your level. Before heading onto a new trail, take the time to find out what's ahead and apply the basic principles of riding smart.
Whether you arrive by car, carpool, or shuttle, it's easy to find your way around Mont Rigaud: one large parking lot, right at the base of the main lodge and the trails. Park, take a deep breath, and you're off.
> How do I get to Mont Rigaud
If you booked your bike rental online, head to the rental counter, located in the basement of the main lodge behind the ticket counter, to pick up your bike and have it adjusted by our team.
If you're bringing your own bike, our shop offers basic spare parts if needed: chains, tubes, and other essentials.
If you have a reloadable access card loaded online, you can head straight to the entrance and the lifts when you arrive, no need to stop by the ticket counter. Otherwise, the ticket counter is located in the parking lot, at the end of the main aisle.
Arrive a little earlier than planned, especially if you have kids or it's your first visit. It gives you time to get ready without any stress. Change in your car and leave your street clothes in the trunk. For your valuables, bring your wallet, phone, and keys with you on the trails, or use the small $1 lockers in the lodge's basement. Above all, avoid leaving valuables visible in the parking lot. Mont Rigaud is not responsible for lost or stolen items. You'll also find the washrooms in the basement.
You're geared up, your ticket's in hand, and you're ready to go. Here are a few pointers to help you feel right at home from your first pedal strokes.
Before heading out onto the trails, take a few minutes to get familiar with your bike and make sure everything's working properly. The Bike Park, located near the trailhead, is the perfect spot for this: progressive features to test your brakes, your balance, and your confidence, no pressure.
Nearby, the Familiale (1) and P'tit Tour (21) trails are short, gentle, and easy loops, perfect for warming up and making sure everything's properly adjusted before venturing further.
Once you're comfortable in the Learning Zone, you're ready for the chairlifts. Mont Rigaud has two quad chairlifts, both leading to the same summit and giving access to all the trails.
Before your first ride, know that there's a practice chair near the Ski & Snowboard School gazebo: a real chairlift chair, securely anchored to the ground, so you can get comfortable with the position and the safety bar, no pressure. Take advantage of it!
A few key tips for your first ride up: sit in the middle of the chair, lower the safety bar as soon as you're seated, and watch for the signage at the summit that tells you when to raise the bar and when to unload.
Don't hesitate to let our loading staff know it's your first time. They're there to help, so trust them and follow their instructions, they're pros.
Trails are marked using a universal colour-coding system: green for easy trails, blue for intermediate trails, black for difficult trails, and double black for very difficult trails. Always stay on a trail suited to your level, it's the golden rule for progressing with confidence and safety.
Trail maps are posted at the main lodge, at the trailhead, at the summit, and at all major intersections. You can also check the map online or download it to your phone before heading out.
Avant de vous engager dans un nouveau sentier, prenez le temps de consulter la carte et de vérifier le niveau de difficulté. Si possible, roulez-le une première fois lentement pour repérer les obstacles, les virages et les modules avant de prendre de la vitesse. En cas de doute sur un obstacle, il est toujours permis de débarquer et de le passer à pied. Mieux vaut arriver en bas en un morceau que de prendre un risque inutile.
Les chutes font partie de l’apprentissage, ne vous en faites pas. Si vous avez besoin d’aide sur les sentiers, repérez le point d’urgence le plus près : ce sont des panneaux identifiés par des lettres de l’alphabet, placés aux intersections des sentiers, qui permettent aux secours de vous localiser rapidement. Mentionnez la lettre du point d’urgence le plus proche lorsque vous appelez à l’aide.
In case of an emergency, call 911 or reach the resort at 450-451-0000 during business hours. Don't hesitate to ask a passing cyclist for help, or offer yours: on the trails, the sense of solidarity between riders is a beautiful thing.
You did it! First trails, first descents, maybe a few memorable falls: you've got every reason to be proud. Time to celebrate.
You did it! First trails, first descents, maybe a few memorable falls: you've got every reason to be proud. Time to celebrate.
Before heading back down, take some time to enjoy the summit. The Adirondack chairs and the Snack Shack are waiting with cold beers, ice cream, drinks, and snacks. The view of the region is worth the trip, especially at the end of the day when the light is beautiful. Keep an eye on the time though: make sure you're back down before the mountain closes.
Back at the base, the Bistro Mont Rigaud terrace is a great spot to end the day on a high note. Otherwise, the picnic tables around the main lodge are perfect for catching your breath in the fresh air before hitting the road.
Before heading out, stop by the Bike Wash, located between the main lodge and the Bike Park, in front of the Ski, Snowboard & Bike School. If you rented a bike, a quick trip through the Bike Wash before returning it is part of the deal. If you have your own bike, a good clean after every ride extends its lifespan and protects the ecosystems. Our shop sells soap and lubricants for a full clean.
