Summer fun in the Laurentians
There are many fun things to do in the Laurentians this summer. Here is just a small sampling with varying accessibility features.
Sentier des cimes Laurentides
This 1,350-meter walkway, which is situated 18 meters above ground, culminates at a tower 40 meters high, offering a breathtaking view. Open year round, the site is accessible with a wheelchair. The maximum slope is 6 degrees, and the activity and learning areas are flat. Restaurant Chez Émile is a spot for sightseers to eat lunch. Prices vary depending on time of year, and tickets can be purchased online.
Water park, Sommet St. Sauveur
Perfect for a hot summer day, the water park offers 27 water slides, 3 activities and seven restaurants, with accessibility for wheelchair users to travel within most of the park. Free life jackets are available for toddlers. Visitors also have access to a picnic area and can rent bikes. If it rains for more than 10 minutes, Sommet St. provides a new day pass for another day.
Info: sommets.com/en/what-to-do/ water-park
Val-David summer market
On Saturdays between 9 am and 1 pm, Marché de Val-David vendors offer a delicious array of local products including crêpes, poutine, local cheese, maple products, honey, sausages, Lebanese food, artisanal breads, tea, custom jewelry and art. Local farmers sell fresh vegetables, fruit and a wide variety of mushrooms. The site is accessible for wheelchair users.
Viking Canoe and Kayak Club
The club’s Paddle All program aims to provide individuals with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to experience the joy of paddling. The program runs Tuesday evenings between June 23 and August 11. The cost includes equipment. Coaches provide safety orientation, both on land and in the water. Members can up their training in sprint kayaks and compete at a national-level competition in August. The dock is wheelchair-accessible, however boats for physically disabled participants are not available. Online registration begins in March.
