Visiting Mont Grand-Fonds is a bit like returning home for a family party. This mountain has that special something that makes you feel comfortable. Although its elevation is lower than its cousin in Petite-Rivière-Saint-François, skiing here is very enjoyable thanks to legendary natural snowfall. Thrill seekers can also have fun in the expert glades of Versant du Lynx.

For off-piste skiing, there are two alpine touring routes to choose from: La Trappeur and La Paddy. The first, longer but less steep, winds along the south side of the mountain and passes by the Lac Gravel lookout. It's worth stopping to take a look, as the view to the east is spectacular, revealing the river, Les Palissades de Charlevoix, and mountains as far as the eye can see.

The second option, La Paddy, climbs the north side at the end of Versant du Lynx. This trail pays tribute to Yves Bergeron, one of the pioneers of ski touring in the region, who opened this trail. Steeper than La Trappeur, La Paddy zigzags toward the summit and offers a glimpse of the double diamond trail Le Mur. Once you're almost at the top, you have two options. The first takes you to the start of Le Mur, Le Nid d'Aigle, and the mogul trail L'Émérentienne.

Charlevoix, Quebec : A Premier Destination for Ski Touring and Backcountry Adventures