The best cycling routes around Notre-Dame-du-Mont-Carmel

The region offers varied terrain, influenced by the Saint-Maurice River. You'll find extensive forested areas near the river, agricultural zones to the north, and notable marshlands. Elevations range from 9 to 219 meters, providing diverse cycling experiences with gradual ascents and descents. Many routes feature mostly paved surfaces.

There are over 25 touring cycling routes available around Notre-Dame-du-Mont-Carmel, catering to various skill levels. This includes 10 easy routes, 13 moderate routes, and 2 difficult routes.

Yes, there are several easy routes. One option is the Bicycle Dismount Point loop from boulevard Industriel/boulevard Saint-Michel, which is 26.2 km long with an elevation gain of about 99 meters.

Cyclists can enjoy views of the Saint-Maurice River, particularly along routes like the La Gabelle Dam – Shawinigan River Falls loop from Shawinigan. The region also features forested sections, agricultural plains, and marshlands, including those near Lake Trotochaud and Rocheleau Cove. The Rivière Cachée, a 17.6-kilometer tributary, is another notable natural highlight.

The routes in Notre-Dame-du-Mont-Carmel are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 70 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the scenic views along the Saint-Maurice River, and the options available for different ability levels.

Yes, the Shawinigan River Falls loop from Shawinigan is a moderate 28.9 km route that passes by the impressive Shawinigan River Falls.

Summer is generally popular for recreational tourism and cycling. The region's varied terrain and natural features are best enjoyed during warmer months. While winter offers activities like cross-country skiing and snowmobiling, dedicated touring cycling is typically a seasonal activity.

Yes, for experienced cyclists, there are routes that extend over 70 kilometers with significant elevation gains. For example, the La Gabelle Dam – Street Art on Hart Street loop from Rue Valentine-Pintal is 70.9 km long with over 330 meters of elevation gain, offering a moderate challenge. The region also features a demanding 125.2 km road cycling route with a total ascent of 923 meters and a maximum grade of 14.4%.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Notre-Dame-du-Mont-Carmel are designed as loops. Examples include the Bicycle Dismount Point loop from boulevard Industriel/boulevard Saint-Michel and the La Gabelle Dam – Shawinigan River Falls loop from Shawinigan.

Beyond cycling, the municipality offers various recreational programs, including outdoor games and walking trails. In winter, you can find an alpine ski center on Mont Carmel, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and icy trails within the 'Domaine de la forêt perdue'.

Yes, the Sanctuaire Notre-Dame-du-Mont-Carmel is a beautiful church known for its architecture and stained glass, offering a peaceful and reflective stop for visitors.

Elevation gains vary significantly depending on the route's length and difficulty. Easy routes might have around 100-125 meters of elevation gain, while moderate routes can feature over 330 meters. More challenging routes can have ascents exceeding 900 meters.