Mapping the slopes !


Wait, what? A Google Street View of a slope! How? Let me introduce how I've embarked on this incredible project.I've always been on the lookout for innovation! As much as I adore technology, I also have a deep passion for hitting the slopes. That's precisely why this project holds such immense significance for me. It represents the perfect infusion of technology into the world of this beloved sport. Despite the plethora of videos and people on the slopes, there's nothing quite like this.Being a Google Trusted Pro, I've traversed many miles since the early days of my career. I've consistently strived to capture breathtaking views of my cherished memories. This journey led me to employ 360-degree cameras. With this cutting-edge equipment, you never miss a single angle, providing a more immersive perspective of the slopes. Moreover, it grants virtual access to individuals who might never have the opportunity to experience the slopes in person. This was, in fact, another driving force behi...

Algonquin Park - Kiosk Loop


This year's Victoria Day weekend canoe trip was at the northern end of Algonquin Park. The access point was Kioshkokwi (Kiosk) lake about a 3.5 hour drive from Ottawa along highway 17. Take the 17 up to Mattawa then west along the Trans Canada until to see the turn off for 630 south into the park. Please watch out for speed traps along the 17 especially near Petawawa. There is an outfitter on the corner of 17 and 630 that you can rent canoes from (Algonquin North Wilderness Outfitters). There is also a ski hill 8km north of Mattawa called Antoine Mountain but I didn't have time to check it out. This year's trip would be 4 days, 3 nights in the park doing a loop from Kiosk lake south into Waterclear lake for a night, then Erables and Maple. With the final day paddling down the Maple River. We had very good weather for May with one day of rain on Saturday. The best thing though was no bugs! Like zero black flies or mosquitoes. The fact that the ice had just come off most of the lakes bet...

Snowshoeing - Mont Cascades

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With another beautiful weekend filled with bluebird skies upon us, we decided to answer the call of the mountain and return to Mont Cascades for some more snowshoeing adventure. On this visit, we started our trek through the mountain from the World Cup side, versus the main chalet side. The trails from both ends link up once you reach the summit. The trails on this side start by passing in front of the World Cup chalet. Here you will find a large trail map flanked with snowshoes (reminiscent of those we used to use in elementary school). We choose trail #8, which is classified as double black diamond for difficulty. For the most part, the trail is fairly easy to hike, however as you approach the summit, there are two sections where the climb really increases in difficulty. Nothing impossible but the snow on this particular visit had a tendency to slip away...

HISTORY - Mont Saint-Sauveur - Nordique and Étoile chairlifts, Terrace and T-Bar 70 - 2008-2011


2003 is the year I first started skiing at Mont Saint-Sauveur, so the following images show some of the more notable and larger changes that have taken place on the mountain. First up is the replacement of the legendary Nordique triple chair. This chair was installed in 1976, the same year that Mont Saint-Sauveur started really developing, which includes the current chalet at the base of the mountain. The lift was replaced in the fall of 2008. The Nordique triple chairlift was built by Doppelmayr in 1976. It carries some legendary status due to it being the first and last lift to open each season, serving the 70 West and Nordique trails. This lift also operates in the summer to give access to two water slide attractions, with a mid-station located 1/3 of the way up the mountain.   The triple chair remained in operation after the ski season came to a close and served the water park for one last summer. During the first week of September, it was decommissioned.   Notice the dri...

HISTORY - Edelweiss Valley - New Chairlifts and Trails - 2000-2015


Edelweiss was the creation of Andy Tommy, also known as one of the owners of the Tommy and Lefebvre ski and sports stores. The mountain was a racer's haven for many years. In the end of the 90s, Edelweiss went through tough financial times and was sold to Mont Saint-Sauveur International in the year 2000. Over the past 15 years, MSSI have invested money into all sorts of projects, to improve and update Edelweiss. From adding two additional quad chairlifts, high performance snowmaking and a snow tubing park, the mountain is constantly evolving. The following are photos showing the three double chairlifts that were in place in the early 2000s. The first is the Heron double chair, serving the lower beginner slope of Easy Street. This lift as well as the Yan double chair (located right next to the Edelbahn Express detachable quad) were removed and replaced with a quad chairlift called the Meister 4000. This new lift started at the same point as the old Heron lift, but finished at the summi...

Camp Fortune - Hand Drawn Brochure - 1975


This cool hand drawn brochure for Camp Fortune from 1975 may interest some. I scanned the front and back with the plan to create a poster. Pretty unique.

Mont Gleason


A trip out of town to view some fall colours was in order today so Mont Gleason was the destination. It was also a great reason to go take a peek at the progress of the new Quad. It was partly cloudy when we got there, I was with my son Lukas, and my long-time ski buddy Christian so it was a day out for the guys. We got there around 11:00 and there was a good crowd of people already there. At Gleason today the festivities included their ski sale in the shop, the local fire department was there with a couple of trucks for the kids to explore, bouncy castles, and chairlift rides. What I really came here for was the new Quad and the progress. Both top and bottom terminals are in place, and all towers have been installed. The crew was installing the comm cable today. The base of the new Quad does take up some of the parking areas. We decided to ride the Laurent-Lemire Quad to the summit to see what was going on up top, and for the view with the colours. Rides were one-way only with a multi...

Snowshoeing - Mont Cascades

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It was a beautiful Sunday morning at Mont Cascades. After several days that brought some fresh snow, the trails were all covered nicely with fresh powder and a soft but firm base. The trails at Mont Cascades are suitable for all skill levels and difficulties and are free to access. There is a parking lot located right at the trail entrance. Almost all trails lead you to the summit via the backside of the mountain. The #5 trail is the most direct route but is the steepest to travel. For today's visit, we took a combination of the #2-3 trails, and then the #4 trail to the summit area. This route is on average easy to intermediate but provides a nice scenic trek through the forest. As you near the summit, you are treated to views of the Gatineau River and the surrounding region. The trip up to near the summit...

Snowshoeing - Mount Royal Park

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A fun snowshoeing adventure through Mount Royal Park in Montreal that almost ended at the hospital.  Here's our adventure... Ana and I both arrived at the Mount Royal Park around 3:30pm. The park features cross-country ski trails and snowshoeing trails. We started our hike near the main pavilion, in which you can change, lock your personal belongings or even rent skates, snowshoes or equipment. Mount Royal seen from the top of Place Ville-Marie. From here the starting points of the various trails are all marked. For our hike, it was the purple snowshoe signals that we needed to follow. This trail is a loop of around 3km in length so regardless of where you begin, you will eventually end back at your starting point. Just a few minutes after we began the signals used to guide yourself along the trail started becoming hard to follow as they were spaced much too far apart...

Snowshoeing/Skiing - Camp Fortune

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I haven't got in a lot of snowshoeing this year, so this morning I checked out the snowshoe trails near Camp Fortune. What was going to be a quick trip of a few short loops turned into a Snowshoe/Ski adventure around the entire Camp Fortune ski area. I was using snowshoe skis. Short fat skis with telemark bindings and a built skin under the foot for climbing.  First the crude trail map: I started with the loop that that goes up and round the Alexander and McDonald. The start of the trail just behind the Ski Club building.  After going through the woods I skinned up the ski hill. The snow was crusty out of the woods.  An old skin trail Nice view of the valley Now to ski down through the crust!  The crust sucked so I went back in the woods. Near the bottom a jump is being created, plus an...

Snowshoeing - Beaver Trail in the Ottawa Greenbelt

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After having received some new snow during the week , it was time to get back out on the snowshoe trails last Saturday (March 10th). This time the location was in the Ottawa Greenbelt, which is part of the NCC. The Beaver Trail is located in the Stony Creek Swamp area, about 15 minutes south west of Bayshore Shopping Centre. Typically you need a snowshoe pass to access the NCC trails in Gatineau Park, however the trails in the Greenbelt are free. The trail is fairly flat, and on this visit, it was also well traveled so the fresh soft snow had been packed down. Luckily we went off to the sides, in the untouched snow. There are several portions that cross wood boardwalks, over the frozen water. No doubt, the area would be quite spectacular to see in the summer, so a return visit is in order. Overall, it is...

Hiking - King Mountain Trail - Gatineau Park


The King Mountain trail, located on the Eardley Escarpment of the Canadian Shield offers a hike unlike any other. With incredible views and interpretive panels that explain the unique ecosystem and historical sites along the trail, it definitely ranks as something you need to experience yourself. It is located near the intersection of the Gatineau and Champlain parkways. The trail is approximately 2km long, in the form of a loop, with a vertical of about 70 metres. The trail contains several areas of rocky formations to traverse, but nothing is overly challenging, and takes an hour or so to complete. Along the way you will discover a unique micro-climate on the mountain, passing from a relatively dry area to one that is noticeably more humid. Passing several different types of forests, as well as many types of trees, the interpretive panels allow you to learn about the natural wonder and treasure that is Gatineau Park. You will also visit the a National Historic Site, when you come acr...

Hiking - Waterfall and Lauriault Trails - Gatineau Park


It had been 3 years since we last explored these trails. With another hot and summery day upon us, it was time to stay cool by hitting the trails during the heatwave. It's truly amazing how nature and the trees can help regulate the heat. You really do not feel as hot when under the tree canopy. Arriving shortly after 11am (as the Gatineau Parkway roads are closed till 11 for the Sunday Bikedays), we parked at the lot by the Waterfall Trail. A short little slope down and to the left we find the tunnel, which passes under the parkway. After emerging on the other side, a fairly short hike brings us right to the Bridal Veil Falls. Heading back up and now to the Lauriault Trail, the long trek begins. The terrain is relatively easy to cross, although there are some mild hills along the way to go up and over. Eventually, you arrive at a clearing and lookout point, perfect to see the surrounding region from up above. Heading back into the forest, the path takes us up one more hill and th...

Hiking - Waterfall Trail - Gatineau Park


The Waterfall trail is located along the Gatineau Parkway. While not the longest hike in Gatineau Park, it certainly has its own charm. Featuring the Bridal Veil falls (named by former Prime Minister Mackenzie King) which culminate this experience, it is another must-see destination in Gatineau Park. The trail is about 1.5km in length (to the falls and returning), mainly flat, with only the approach and descent to the falls offering any additional challenge. The trail leaves the parking and passes under the Gatineau Parkway through a tunnel. From there, you pass through some wetlands and over a few wooden bridges. I recommend you visit the falls either in the spring, as the snow is melting or after heavy rainfall, as the water flow will be much higher. Once you have visited the falls, the nearby Lauriault trail offers a longer trip back to the parking and adds another 2.5km to your hike. This trail is in the form of a loop, taking you past Mulvihill lake, the perfect place for a picnic...

Hiking - Sugarbush Trail - Gatineau Park


The Sugarbush Trail is the perfect trail for those looking for an easy hike through the forest. Absent are any steep hills or natural obstacles, just pure fresh air and nature at its best! This trail is located just next to the Gatineau Park Visitor's Centre in Chelsea. The Sugarbush Trail starts with a short crossing over a river and brings you into a dense forest of tall slender trees. Under the tree canopy, the shade and pure air are very refreshing. As you continue along the path, the tree canopy occasionally gives way to more open areas. I highly recommend the Sugarbush trail for those unsure of where to start their hiking in Gatineau Park. It is easy and can be enjoyed by people with reduced mobility as there are no steep hills or obstacles such as rocks or tree roots. The trail has a length of approximately 2km and can be done in about 35 minutes. It is very easy to find with ample parking available. Of course, with the Gatineau Park Visitor's Centre nearby, it's perfect to plan...

Hiking - Lauriault Trail - Gatineau Park


Another day in Gatineau Park, another trail to discover. Today it was time to venture down the Lauriault Trail. This trail is accessed off of the Waterfall Trail, previously visited last week. The Lauriault Trail is about 3.5km in length, over relatively intermediate terrain. Nothing overly steep, or challenging. Weaving through the trees, while crossing several water streams, the halfway point of the trail arrives at a lookout point, giving a grand view of the surrounding region from above. Continuing on the trail, you come across the Mulvihill Lake, the perfect place for a picnic lunch or gazing into the water. This area is calm and peaceful, with a platform extending out over the water. The return trip on the opposite side of the loop is just as eventful, with more sloping terrain and passages to cross. You also see the stream that feeds the waterfall, which surely must rage during the springtime with all the melting snow. The entire adventure took about 1.5 hours to complete, and d...

Hiking - Lusk Cave Trail - Gatineau Park


A sunny late summer Saturday always signals the perfect time to go exploring and hiking. Having been interested for some time to see what all the fuss over the Lusk Caves was about, Ana and I ventured out to the Philippe Lake area to hike the trail and check out this unique attraction in Gatineau Park. The Lusk Caves were created some 12,500 years ago from melting glacial waters. This melting water was forced into cracks of the Marble rock, eroding them more quickly than the other type of rock present, which led to the creation of the unique tunnels that are explorable today. To this day, water continues to stream through the cave, continuing this erosion and gradually shaping the cave. Exploring the cave is an experience all on its own, clearly, a fact recognized by the number of people visiting. The Lusk Stream flows through the cave and as a result, exploration consists of passages of water, some dry and shallow, others with water levels as high as a metre or more. There are brief s...

Hiking - Luskville Falls Trail - Gatineau Park


The Luskville Falls are located about 30 minutes from downtown Gatineau. With easy access by car, simply take Boulevard des Allumetières, until it turns into route 148 and follow that. After about 15-20 minutes, the road will switch into a divided highway, and the exit will be one of the first gravel roads to the right shortly after. Follow the road and turn left and you will arrive at the falls trail. The area is peaceful yet quite busy with visitors, as the trail is fairly popular to hike. A bit of forewarning, the trail is fairly steep, but nothing too challenging. Good footwear is recommended as most of the path is on rocks of various sizes and shapes.Beginning the trail from the parking lot, you head slightly downwards, then begin your ascent. The full hike up is approximately 300+ vertical metres. As you hike, the path follows a rocky path, almost in the form of stairs. Not long after the beginning, you see the base of the majestic falls up close. The flow of the water ...

Hiking - Pioneer Trail - Gatineau Park


A great day in nature on Gatineau Park's Pioneer Trail. This hiking path is easily accessible from the Gatineau Park parkway entrance off of Boulevard des Allumetières near Hull. A large parking lot and information centre and map await your arrival. The Pioneer trail is not the longest trail and doesn't present much challenge as it has a relatively flat profile, but it is a great place to enjoy nature without having to go very far from the city. With a length of approximately 1.5km, the trail in the form of a loop takes about 30-40 minutes to walk. All along the path are interpretation panels, allowing you to learn about settlers in the Outaouais region and the Park's forest diversity. The love tree, carved with care by plenty of couples who have walked this path together. The whistling wind and the brushing of the leaves, you really feel at peace and with nature in Gatineau Park. The ever expansive forests that seemingly never end bring out anyone's sense of curiosity and exploration.

Hiking - Carbide Willson Ruins - Gatineau Park


A beautiful clear Saturday afternoon called for a visit to Gatineau Park to do some hiking. The park is famous for its endless trails and the multitude of choices of where to go and how to get there. This trip was to visit the Carbide Willson Ruins. Located to the North of Meech lake, the ruins can be found after the 3km hike. The trail is not very challenging to get to the ruins, however, there is a long hill halfway there. Surprisingly, the trail is quite popular and well-travelled. Definitely, one of the more popular locations to visit. Starting from the P11 parking lot by Meech lake, the trail heads up the hill to the North. The forest canopy providing plenty of cover and shade as you make the trip. Eventually, you reach a long downhill section, which culminates with a bridge over the lake. Looking South from here you can see Meech lake and the cottages that flank the shoreline. Continuing along the path, you will eventually reach a directional signpost. Oddly enough, to get to the...

Hiking - Beaver Trail in the Ottawa Greenbelt


Having visited this trail network in the late winter to snowshoe, we were curious to experience it in the summer without snow. Located in the Stony Swamp area of the Ottawa Greenbelt, the Beaver trail goes into a swampy marsh area, with a short walkway built over top. I love trails with features like this: This area is only a 15-minute drive from Bayshore Shopping Centre and is a relatively easy trail to discover, with nothing difficult or presenting much challenge to overcome. While it is not long, there are several ways to go, so you can make the trip longer if you zig and zag your way through the forest. There is a trail connection that according to the map appears to go quite far off into the distance, no doubt connecting to other trails and areas. Overall, the Beaver trail is a nice place to visit if you don't want to go far or are in the mood for a shorter hike through nature. Here are some more pictures from the visit.

Hiking - Champlain Lookout Trail - Gatineau Park


The Champlain Lookout trail takes you around the edge of the Eardley Escarpment, showcasing stunning views and vistas. With a length of approximately 1.2km, it is not the longest trail, but definitely one of the more enjoyable ones. Several sections are on the edge of steep cliffs, bordered by wood fences, further adding to the awe inspiring landscapes and experience. Interpretive panels explain the unique geology as well as unique and rare species found in this area. The ever elusive milk snake for example can on occasion be spotted along this trail near rocky formations. Crossing several small streams passing through rocky formations, there is plenty to enjoy on this trail in Gatineau Park. Accessed from the Champlain Parkway's lookout, the trail should be considered intermediate in difficulty. With two perfect viewing points, including one that juts out from the mountain on a platform, don't forget to bring your camera. Once finished, be sure to also enjoy the view and scenery by th...

Hiking - Mount Royal Park


After having experienced the Mount Royal Park two winters ago with a snowshoeing adventure, it was high time to re-discover it again in the summer. Gone are the many cross-country skiers, the snow-covered toboggan sliding hills, and the snowshoe packed trails... now we are treated to a pristine park, located in the middle of Canada's second largest city. The area is very picturesque, with the Beaver Lake located in the middle, now frequented by leisure rowboats, and hundreds of people enjoying the fresh air and nature. The park is easily accessible with public transit by metro and bus, or by parking lots nearby. The trails and paths circle around the summit of the mountain, and also head off in numerous directions, taking you to various destinations. There is also a pathway that does the perimeter of the lake. At one end, there is a nice stone waterfall that runs off into the lake. Walking the trails, you can catch glimpses of the Montreal skyline and the sprawling city. A great visit ...

Hiking - Discovery Trail - Gatineau Park


Finally, the heatwave is over, and we can once again enjoy nature and the outdoors without working up a terrible sweat. Heading out around 10am, we forgot that it was Sunday Bike Day, meaning the parkways in Gatineau Park are closed to vehicle traffic. Our original destination would have been the Pink Lake trail, but not currently being accessible by car, we decided to go to the Discovery Trail instead, located along Meech Lake. This trail can be accessed from the O'Brien's Beach parking lot (just minutes past Camp Fortune). This trail starts off with some long hilly, but smooth terrain, before arriving at a small bridge crossing a stream off of Meech Lake. You can also catch a glimpse of the Lake and Kayakers in the distance... that was us just a few weeks earlier. Continuing on, you will arrive at a signpost, at which you can head left and visit the Carbide Willson Ruins. Overall, this is a relatively easy trail to enjoy. There are some climbs to do, but the terrain is all smooth and...

Hiking - Pink Lake Trail - Gatineau Park


The Pink Lake trail is definitely an emerald jewel in Gatineau Park. From its sparkling green water to the many lookout and observation points, this trail has it all.Easily accessible from the Gatineau Parkway, you are able to park at either the Pink Lake lookout or the Pink Lake trail parking lots. From here, the fun starts, and as the trail is a loop that circles the entire lake along its border, you have the choice to go clockwise or counterclockwise. We chose the former for this visit. Exploring in this direction takes you to the best lookout points right from the start.Pink Lake is very unique. Due to its sheltered location, provided by the surrounding trees and hills, the water is protected from most of the wind. This has the result of greatly limiting the movement of the water, and in fact, the water below 15m depth is void of any oxygen, a phenomenon that started over 10,000 years ago. The water receives its characteristic green hue due to the high algae content. The following ...