{"id":4178,"date":"2025-07-24T16:08:33","date_gmt":"2025-07-24T20:08:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lievrerouge.ca\/?p=4178"},"modified":"2025-07-24T16:08:33","modified_gmt":"2025-07-24T20:08:33","slug":"biking-lac-saguay","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lievrerouge.ca\/en\/biking-lac-saguay\/","title":{"rendered":"Biking to Lac-Saguay: Nature, Swimming, and a Classic Quebec Poutine"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Among the best-kept secrets of the Upper Laurentians is a loop that\u2019s as simple as it is satisfying: hop on a bike at Refuge du Li\u00e8vre Rouge, follow the P\u2019tit Train du Nord trail, explore the village of Lac-Saguay, and return with a full heart (and belly).<\/p>\n

It\u2019s a car-free, stress-free kind of day filled with genuine moments.<\/p>\n

The kind of outing that sticks with you: coffee, forest, a short hike, tennis, swimming, a roadside snack\u2026 and a quiet fire to wrap it all up.<\/p>\n

The pace? Yours to set.<\/p>\n

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A Slow Start<\/h3>\n

Before heading out on your bike, stop by the Sous-Bois Caf\u00e9<\/strong><\/a>, located in the main lodge at Refuge du Li\u00e8vre Rouge.
\nIt\u2019s the perfect spot to grab a great coffee, charge your devices, take advantage of the free Wi-Fi, and plan your route with one of the two Mathieus who will be more than happy to help you choose the best loop based on your time and distance.<\/p>\n

\ud83d\udc49 Need a bike? Standard and electric bikes are available for rent directly on-site.<\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udeb4 Getting on the P\u2019tit Train du Nord<\/h3>\n

From the Refuge, a quiet gravel road leads you straight to one of the region\u2019s hidden gems: the P\u2019tit Train du Nord bike trail.<\/p>\n

This 230+ km linear path stretches from the south to the north of the Laurentians, following the old railway that once connected remote forest villages. Back in the day, this is where trains loaded with timber, goods and lumberjacks rolled through the wilderness.<\/p>\n

Today, the rails have given way to a peaceful, well-maintained cycling route surrounded by classic Laurentian landscapes.<\/p>\n

As you ride near Lac-Saguay, you\u2019re literally following in the tracks of those who helped open up the territory.
\nMarshes, spruce trees, silence\u2026 this wild land reveals itself slowly, pedal by pedal. You\u2019re already somewhere else.<\/p>\n

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\ud83e\udd7e Nature Break: The Joseph-B.-B.-Gauthier Trail<\/h3>\n

Just minutes into your bike ride, stop at the Parc Joseph-B.-B.-Gauthier, a peaceful little spot right off the trail.<\/p>\n

The park pays tribute to Joseph-B.-B.-Gauthier, a local figure who is said to have been a trapper in the region, a way of life deeply tied to the history of these forests and lakes. Today, the area features a short boardwalk trail, ideal for a quiet walk through boreal forest.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s a simple, accessible path that offers a glimpse into the daily rhythm of the region\u2019s early inhabitants. A perfect way to slow down and reconnect with the land.<\/p>\n

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\ud83c\udfbe Village Stop: Tennis, Pickleball, and Local Life<\/h3>\n

As you arrive in the heart of Lac-Saguay, right near the church, you\u2019ll find the village\u2019s tennis and pickleball courts \u2014 a classic local gathering spot for residents and visitors alike.<\/p>\n

The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming. You don\u2019t have to be a pro, just bring your good spirit for a fun game outdoors.<\/p>\n

\ud83d\udc49 Don\u2019t have equipment? No worries: you can rent tennis and pickleball gear directly from Li\u00e8vre Rouge before you head out.<\/p>\n

Another great way to add a little activity (and maybe some friendly competition!) to your ride.<\/p>\n

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\ud83c\udfd6\ufe0f Cool Off at the Beach\u2026 and a Quick Climb to the Belvedere<\/h3>\n

After all that activity, it\u2019s time to unwind.
\nJust a few more pedal strokes bring you to Lac Saguay\u2019s public beach, a peaceful spot that\u2019s perfect for a swim or a relaxing break.<\/p>\n

The lake is clean, shallow near the shore, and rarely crowded, even in peak summer. Lay out your towel, take a dip, or enjoy some shade under the trees.<\/p>\n

Right next to the beach is the Belvedere Trail, a short and well-marked climb leading to a scenic lookout over the village and surrounding hills.
\nA small effort for a beautiful reward and a fresh perspective on this quiet corner of the Upper Laurentians.<\/p>\n

The perfect duo: forest stroll and lake swim.<\/p>\n

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\ud83c\udf5f Snack Stop: A Classic from Do-Di<\/h3>\n

Before heading back to the Refuge, make a stop at Do-Di, the village\u2019s beloved snack bar.
\nThey serve a classic, generous Quebec poutine \u2014 a local staple in the Upper Laurentians.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s salty, comforting, and exactly what you need after a full day outdoors.<\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udd01 Back at the Refuge: A Cocktail and a Quiet Ending<\/h3>\n

After your scenic ride, the return to the Refuge is calm and unhurried \u2014 your legs might be tired, your belly full, and your mind totally at ease.<\/p>\n

Once you\u2019re back, stop by the Sous-Bois Caf\u00e9-Buvette for a well-earned drink: a cocktail, a glass of natural wine, a refreshing mocktail, or simply an afternoon coffee.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s the perfect spot to unwind, reflect on the day, and enjoy the peace of the forest as evening sets in.<\/p>\n

And if it\u2019s a Friday or Saturday night, a communal fire is lit outside the lodge.
\nOne last moment to disconnect, share stories\u2026 or just sit quietly and watch the flames.<\/p>\n

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\ud83d\udccd Practical Info<\/h2>\n