Summer is made for playing outside. That may sound like a cliché, but it’s true nonetheless! In addition to being fun, combining physical activity and fresh air can work wonders on your mood, even more than enjoying either of these two fabulous elements separately.
So, whether you’ll looking to have fun outdoors with your friends or want to go on an adventure, stay in town or head out of town, we have some ideas for you!
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Those who like to climb like monkeys, should know that it’s possible to climb under the sun this summer (if it decides to make an appearance). Also, contrary to what you may think, this very complete sport isn’t strictly for the initiated!
In town: The Allez-Up Center has magnificent outdoor silos where you can climb 125 feet to observe the city from on high! To climb, you must be certified or accompanied by someone who is. Alternatively, you can try bouldering (no certification required) on the center’s exterior walls. The silos are open weekdays from 5 P.M. to 8:30 P.M. and weekends from noon to 4 P.M.
Out of town: If you have a bit of experience, you may enjoy spending a day at Val-David Regional Park! There are more than 500 wall paths and just as many bouldering options! Otherwise, you can take an introductory course. You can also check out Mont-Orford, Mont-Tremblant or la Montagne d’argent.
Summer is made for playing outside. That may sound like a cliché, but it’s true nonetheless!
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Are you a fan of surfing? There’s no need to take off overseas to indulge in this exotic sport!
In town: You can river surf in two locations without leaving the city at La vague à Guy and Habitat 67! You can rent all the equipment you need and take introduction courses (recommended if it’s your first time surfing). If you’re a beginner, be aware that La vague à Guy is more accessible and less intimidating!
Out of town: Drive south five hours, and you’ll hit Hampton Beach, where you can surf in the ocean. No, really! You’ll have no problem renting a surfboard and a wetsuit on site! If the waves don’t come out to play, you can rent a paddle board (SUP), play soccer on the beach or run by the water's edge. It’s a beautiful getaway to share with your boldest buddies!
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If you are looking for a water sport that’s less intense than surfing, try paddle boarding (SUP) or kayaking!
In town: KSF offers paddle surfing and kayaking at (Available in french only) 4 different locations where you can enjoy both sports on site!
Out of town: Again, a host of options are available. Check out the SEPAQ site for all the places you can enjoy SUP or kayaking in Quebec, as well as a list of rental prices and equipment to bring!
In addition to being fun, combining movement and fresh air can work wonders on your mood.
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Both adventure enthusiasts and fans of the great outdoors will enjoy this activity. Just pick a mountain that’s suited to your needs, pack a good lunch and you’re in business.
In town: In town, your choices are limited to the only mountain worthy of the name, Mount Royal. If you can’t get away to the country, heading to Mount Royal is an excellent option! Spice things up by trying all the wooded trails you will come across.
Out of town: Here, you’re spoilt for choice! You can try the Mont St-Hilaire or Mont St-Grégoire, both of which are very close to Montreal. Their longest trails are relatively short (2 hours) yet they still offer a significant vertical drop.
There are several mountains suitable for all levels in the Adirondacks. Personally, I’m a big fan of Giant. It’s quite a challenging trek and reasonably long (5-6 hours).
If you don’t want to leave Quebec, you have many other options such as Mont-Mégantic, which offers a very nice hike (7 hours) with stunning views (photo). The Acropole des draveurs in the Charlevoix region (5 hours), La Vache Noire in Tremblant (4 hours), Pic de l'Ours in Orford (3-4 hours) and many more!
And there you have it! A ton of ideas to keep you active AND entertained this summer. Looking for even more ideas? Check out this article: 8 original ideas to stay active this summer.Want to get back in shape before attempting one of these activities? Start with these daily actions: 5 daily actions to get back in shape
Tell us which activities you’ll try and with whom you plan to enjoy them!
Does participating in physical activity in outdoor natural environments have a greater effect on physical and mental wellbeing than physical activity indoors? A systematic review. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21291246
Chloé Rochette, Personal Trainer | HappyFitness
Sport has always been a part of Chloe’s life and she became a coach to share, with as many people as possible, the happiness it has brought to her. A dancer, skier and former triathlete, she is now a personal trainer and founder of Le Mouvement HappyFitness—a company with which she hopes to make a difference in people's lives by showing them the joys of being active and healthy.
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