A Trail for Every Season: An Autumn Ascent on the Grand Prix des Couleurs

When autumn sets in, the mountain transforms into a vast living canvas. It’s the season of colors, drawing hikers and wanderers each year in search of dazzling landscapes. To fully experience this fleeting moment, there’s nothing quite like the Grand Prix des Couleurs trail—a direct ascent to the summit of Mont Tremblant that challenges both your legs and your eyes.

This 2.9 km trail climbs straight up along the Bière-en-bas, Fripp, and McCulloch ski runs. With 611 meters of elevation gain, it’s considered difficult but also one of the quickest ways to reach the summit—without taking the gondola! Trail runners, avid hikers, and skiers or snowboarders preparing for the winter season all find it to be a rewarding challenge.

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A Workout in Step with Autumn Colors

From the very first steps, you can feel the steepness of the climb. But every pause to catch your breath is also a chance to admire the autumn spectacle. The mountain is draped in vibrant shades, contrasting with the still-green ski runs. The higher you climb, the broader the view: valleys blanketed with hardwood forests, shimmering lakes, and ridgelines stretching out to the horizon.

In autumn, the crisp air makes the effort more enjoyable, while the golden light highlights the mountain’s contours and textures. At the summit, you’re rewarded with a spectacular panorama where maples, birches, and aspens cover the Laurentians in vivid reds, oranges, and golds.

What You’ll Discover Along the Way

Familiar slopes from a new angle: Walking on Fripp or McCulloch without skis offers a fresh perspective and stirs anticipation for the next snowy descent.

A steady climb: The trail rises relentlessly, making it a perfect cardiovascular workout.

A colorful horizon: Every opening in the forest reveals bursts of autumn foliage across the valley.

This route appeals equally to athletes looking for a challenge and mountain lovers eager to experience autumn in all its intensity.

Practical Information on the Grand Prix des Couleurs

Difficulty: Difficult

Distance: 2.9 km

Estimated time: 60 to 90 minutes

Type of trail: Linear ascent

Elevation gain: 611 m

Access: South Side base of Mont Tremblant, near the gondola

Opening period: Summer and fall, until trail closures are required to protect the soil before winter

Bring water, proper footwear, and an extra layer—the air can be much cooler at the summit, especially later in the day.

Did You Know?

From 1996 to 2013, an autumn race was held on this very trail: the Grand Prix des Couleurs Tremblant. On foot, running, or even by bike, participants took on the challenge of climbing Mont Tremblant via this steep, direct route. This popular event left its mark on the mountain’s history and even inspired the name of today’s trail: the Grand Prix des Couleurs.

A Trail Between Two Seasons

The Grand Prix des Couleurs perfectly captures the transition from autumn to winter. For hikers, it’s an immersive experience in a Laurentian forest alive with change. For skiers and snowboarders, it’s a chance to train and prepare their legs before the first snowfall.

Challenging yet spectacular, this trail embodies the spirit of Tremblant: sustained effort leading to a grand reward.

In the same A Trail for Every Season series:
• A Winter Escape on Tour du Timber | Blogue Tremblant
• A Spring Escape on La Villageoise-de-Mont-Tremblant