If you love taking on big challenges but would rather stay closer to home, good news: you can recreate the equivalent of climbing Mount Everest right here at Tremblant. Here are a few ways to tackle your own Everesting adventure.
Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world, rises to 8,848 metres (29,029 ft.). Every year, climbers attempt to reach its summit after an incredible journey. Starting from Lukla, at the base of the trekking route, the expedition to the top covers roughly 85 km (53 mi.) and 6,000 metres (19,685 ft.) of elevation gain, spread over several days to allow for acclimatization. And then, of course, there’s the descent.
In total, the full expedition involves close to 170 km (105 mi.) of trekking over more than 35 days, not to mention the extreme cold, significant risks and considerable cost of climbing Everest.
No Need to Travel Far to Aim High
The summit of Tremblant stands at 875 metres (2,871 ft.) above sea level. Hiking from base to summit represents 645 metres (2,116 ft.) of elevation gain, while the distance varies depending on the trail you choose.
At first glance, Everest may seem ten times taller, but when you compare the real climbing effort, the challenge becomes much more relatable.
3 ways to take on Everest at Tremblant
Please note that these calculations are based on the most direct route to the summit, the Grand Prix des Couleurs trail. This trail offers 611 metres of elevation gain over 2.9 km, with a wide and well-cleared path.
1. Based on Altitude
If you compare only Everest’s total altitude, you would need to climb Tremblant approximately 14.5 times to match it.
This calculation does not include the descents.
2. Selon le dénivelé positif
If your goal is to match the full expedition’s cumulative 6,000 metres of elevation gain, you’ll need to climb the mountain nine times.
If you prefer to recreate the equivalent of the trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp, that represents 2,504 metres of elevation gain, or about four ascents of Tremblant.
For the equivalent of the climb from Base Camp to the summit, you’ll need to complete approximately 3,870 metres of elevation gain, or six ascents.
These calculations also exclude the descents.
3. Based on Distance
To recreate the 85 km distance required for the Everest ascent, you could complete 14.5 ascents and descents on the Grand Prix des Couleurs trail.
Another option is the Grand Brûlé trail, a more forested route, where you would complete approximately 7.5 ascents and descents.
There are plenty of ways to build your own challenge by combining different trails and distances. You can customize your route using our trail map, where distances, elevation gain and estimated hiking times are all available.
Timing
A full Everest expedition in the Himalayas, including the ascent and descent, generally takes more than 35 days.
At Tremblant, completing the equivalent challenge can take anywhere from 9 to 20 hours of effort, depending on your pace and chosen objective. Please note that hiking outside operating hours is not permitted, so you may need to plan for a very long day or split the challenge over two to four days.
Another option is to participate in a dedicated organized event designed specifically for this challenge, detailed below.
Accessibility
While access to Everest expeditions is extremely limited, hiking at Tremblant is highly accessible. The trails are maintained, patrolled, open year round (except during the spring snowmelt period) and free to access during the summer and fall seasons.
Please note that winter trail access requires a fee and trails must be used with touring skis or snowshoes. Hiking on foot is not permitted during winter operations.
Gondola Option
You can also purchase a daily ticket or season pass for the panoramic gondola. It may be used for both the ascent and descent, or for only one direction if you prefer to focus your effort on the climbs while giving your legs a break on the way down.
It’s also a great option for friends and family who want to cheer you on from the summit.
Facilities and Other Advantages
Tremblant offers reliable cell phone coverage throughout the mountain, along with an experienced patrol team on duty every day.
At the summit, you’ll find a large chalet with services including drinking water, a cafeteria, Wi Fi and washrooms. At the base, the pedestrian village offers accommodations for every style of stay, along with boutiques, restaurants and plenty of places to relax after your challenge. There’s even a lake at the foot of the village where you can cool off after your adventure.
An up to date trail map is always available on our website.
A Turnkey Alternative
If you’d rather take on this major challenge as part of an organized 36 hour event with meals, accommodations, coaching and more included, discover the 29029 Everesting Mont Tremblant event.
“I completed the 29029 Everesting challenge: 15 ascents of Tremblant in 36 hours, the equivalent of climbing Mount Everest. It was demanding, especially from a nutrition standpoint, but the support, the sense of community and the discipline built over four months of training helped me succeed. I lost 20 pounds, met incredible people and experienced unforgettable moments, all while being supported by my partner and loved ones. More than crossing the finish line, this challenge reminded me that true happiness is found throughout the entire journey.” — Yannick Proulx, participant
Good luck with your challenge! If you share your adventure on social media, be sure to tag @monttremblant and use #Tremblant.
