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The natural progression of seasons from summer to fall at Tremblant marks one of the most dramatic, spectacular changes in the Mountains appearance. From the lush tones of the various shades of full green foliage, small twinges of colour begin to creep into the edges of the leaves, slowly at first, but then more quickly until the tapestry of Mother Natures complete fall pallet of rich reds, golds, oranges and burgundies paint the views for as far as the eye can see.

Once the change begins, the speed that Nature takes to paint our Mountain can be quite remarkable. Each new morning in this glorious transformation seems to bring a new level of vivid splashes that seem to pop out in another dimension against the green forest backdrop that we’ve been so used to since spring.

Observant Naturalists will see that the types of trees and consequently the change of colour, differ, depending on elevation, so while at base level there is a very high density of Deciduous trees, such as the Maples, the farther up the Mountain you look, the more predominant Coniferous or Evergreen trees become.

While base level observations are more than enough to create endless scenes worthy of “post cards”, there can be no doubt that a trip to Tremblant’s summit is the ultimate way to experience the majestic views that can only come from being 2116 vertical feet, or 645 meters higher up.

If you click on any of the pictures in this post, you’ll be able to see a more detailed view of your Tremblant summit destination.

If you are looking for some great exercise, hiking up to Tremblant’s summit will certainly qualify as an excellent cardiovascular workout. Surprisingly, hiking down is also vigorous exercise too, but we’ll talk about that in another post dedicated to the hiking experience, so for now, we’re going to look at riding Tremblant’s aerial Gondola/Telecabine.

Just for the sake of those that may not be familiar with the Gondola, it is an 8 passenger cable operated lift that sees its heaviest use in the Ski season, but is an ideal way to visit the summit anytime. The ride up is about 8 minutes and the completely enclosed space ensures comfort no matter what the weather is outside.

Once on board, you are immediately able to scan the panoramic vistas that never fail to impress all who go this way to the top.

Right over the first crest, you can really relate to our title concept of “The Painted Mountain”, the passing kaleidoscope of bright colours passing around and below as you as you’re silently floated to the summit.

After you’ve off-loaded at the top, we recommend you turn left and proceed to the summit 360 observation platform. It’s about a 5 minute walk and there’s a zig-zag path that takes you up to it, if you’re fit for about a 2 minute uphill climb. It’s definitely worth it, the view to the South, spanning all of Lac Tremblant is superb and something you’ll never forget.

Once you’ve scoped out the summit “Big Picture”, don’t forget to wander over for a view of the still scarcely populated Versant Nord, or North side. The panorama includes Lac Superieur and as you can tell by the pictures, another brilliant display of Mother Natures finest fall colours.

We’d like to point out that Tremblant’s lift operations staff are on the ready to handle those with a wide range of physical disabilities, so if you have challenges, don’t hesitate to contact Tremblant’s customer service through www.tremblant.ca to verify assistance for your situation. Lift attendants are also finely tuned to the needs of elders, and they can slow or even stop the lift to facilitate both loading and unloading to accommodate one and all.

A visit to Tremblant’s summit can be done in as little as an hour, but if you can do a bit of trekking, and if you’ve got an eye for photography, we think you’ll be able to spend two or three hours while there with no trouble at all. There is a wealth of natural interest and the whole summit sector is very well labelled with dozens of points of information.

In keeping with this posts theme of using the Gondola, your trip down will be filled with just as much thrill and beauty as the ride up, so with that in mind, here are two of our favourite Tremblant fall views from the descent that remind us that while much of the visit has been focused on the amazing long distance views, the close range tree-top “birds eye” view is just as appealing.

While we’re at it, a few quick words on being prepared for maximum comfort. Tremblant’s summit is typically 4 to 5 degrees Celsius cooler that the base level due to its elevation. Depending on base level temp then, you may want to carry a layer or two, particularly if there’s a breeze.

A good pair of walking shoes is necessary and if you want to do some summit trekking, a sturdy pair of lug-soled hiking shoes or boots are recommended. Summit trails range from fine pea-gravel to larger course and mixed size loose rock and experienced Mountain hikers can be seen with a full range of gear including backpacks, walking sticks and of course… don’t forget your camera and a spare set of batteries!