Fatbike rental – Au Canal-de-Lachine

If you’re looking for a fresh way to enjoy Montreal’s winter scenery, a fatbike ride along the Lachine Canal might just be the activity you need. This guided rental experience offers a combination of outdoor fun, beautiful views, and a bit of physical activity—perfect for those who want to see a different side of the city in colder months. While it’s not a long tour, the mix of nature, cityscape, and expert guidance makes it a worthwhile outing for a wide range of travelers.

What we love about this experience is how accessible it is for families and groups—the bikes are big and stable, and the guides are friendly and knowledgeable. Plus, the stunning winter landscape along the canal offers a rare, peaceful backdrop that you won’t find in the busy summer months. The only potential caveat? It’s best suited for those who are comfortable riding bikes in snow, so if you’re new to biking or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider your own comfort level before booking.

This activity appeals most to outdoor enthusiasts, families with older children, couples looking for a romantic yet active outing, or friends wanting a fun group challenge. It’s an authentic Montreal experience that combines exercise with scenic beauty—something to remember long after the snow melts.

Key Points

• Unique winter scenery along the 13 km trail from Lachine to Old Montreal
• All equipment provided: fatbike, helmet, and phone holder
• Expert guidance ensures safety and tips for a smooth ride
• Flexible duration: choose 1 or 2 hours depending on your energy and interest
• Great for groups, family outings, or solo exploring
• Affordable price at just $18 per person, offering good value for a guided outdoor activity

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Fatbike Experience at Au Canal-de-Lachine

Introduction to the Activity

We haven’t had the chance to try this activity ourselves but from the reviews and details, it sounds like a delightful way to embrace Montreal’s winter. Riding a fatbike in the snow turns what could be a chilly day into an adventure filled with fresh air and scenic vistas. The fact that the bikes are specially designed to handle snow and rough terrain means you don’t need prior experience—just a sense of adventure.

One of the aspects we love is that the instructors are passionate and multi-lingual—offering explanations in English, French, and Spanish—making this accessible for many visitors. The short briefing at the start ensures everyone feels comfortable before heading out, and the equipment is included in the price. At $18 per person for one to two hours, this experience offers solid value, especially compared to pricier outdoor excursions.

A potential consideration is the weather. Since this is a winter activity, proper clothing is essential—think warm gloves, hats, and layered outdoor gear. But the rental includes a helmet and guidance, so you’ll be well-prepared once dressed appropriately.

Who Is This Best For?

This tour suits active travelers, families with children over 5, or groups looking for a memorable outdoor experience away from the usual city sights. It’s also ideal for couples wanting a romantic winter outing or friends seeking a fun, team-building activity. If you’re comfortable biking and enjoy scenic nature, you’ll find plenty to love here.

What’s Included and How It Works

The rental package covers a fatbike, a helmet, a phone holder, and a brief instruction by an experienced instructor. This means you can concentrate on enjoying the ride rather than worrying about equipment or technical details. The instructor adjusts the bike to fit your size and offers tips for handling the big tires—something that can make all the difference, especially if you’re new to fatbiking.

The meeting point is straightforward—enter through the main entrance on St-Ambroise Street or directly at the canal, at shop #136. The location is convenient for those staying near Montreal’s Old Port or the vibrant Lachine area.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Trail and Scenic Highlights

The 13 km trail stretches from Lock No. 5 in Ville Lachine to the Old Port of Montreal. This route offers a mix of urban views and nature, with the canal’s icy waters and snow-covered landscapes providing a serene winter backdrop. The trail’s length makes it manageable; most riders can comfortably complete 1 hour, with 2 hours allowing for a more leisurely exploration.

Riders will love the way the big tires of the fatbike handle the snow—gripping well and providing a smooth ride even on uneven terrain. It’s worth noting that this isn’t just about pedaling but about enjoying the scenery and the fresh winter air.

The Experience on the Trail

Expect a mix of flat stretches and gentle climbs, with the instructor ensuring everyone stays safe and has fun. The guide’s knowledge and friendly manner stand out, making it easy to ask questions and learn about the local environment. As one reviewer put it, “The guide is very friendly, good explanation given before the activity,” which helps those unfamiliar with fatbiking or the area.

The Social Aspect

Whether you’re riding solo, with a partner, or in a group, this activity lends itself well to socializing and team building. It’s a fun, active way to bond while enjoying Montreal’s winter beauty. Families with older kids will appreciate the safe, supervised environment and the chance to introduce children to outdoor sports.

The Value and Practical Considerations

At $18 per person, this activity is surprisingly affordable, especially considering equipment, guidance, and access to a scenic trail. It’s a cost-effective way to spend a couple of hours outdoors, with the added bonus of stunning winter views that are often missed by casual visitors.

Timing is flexible; most sessions are available in the morning or afternoon, allowing you to fit this into your Montreal itinerary easily. The cancelation policy is generous—full refunds are available if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance—helping travelers plan with confidence.

Requirements and Restrictions

Participants need to bring appropriate winter gear—hats, gloves, outdoor clothing, snacks, and water—so you stay warm and energized. The activity is not suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, or anyone with certain medical conditions or physical limitations. It’s essential to be comfortable riding a bike and to be prepared for winter conditions.

Authentic Reviews and Insights

One reviewer from France described their experience as “very good,” praising the “nice little walk” and the friendly guide. This reflects the overall sentiment that the guides are passionate and knowledgeable, enhancing the experience with good explanations and support.

The scenic value is also highly praised, with riders enjoying the stunning views along the canal, especially in winter when the landscape is transformed by snow and ice. The combination of outdoor activity and beautiful scenery creates a memorable outing that stands out from typical city tours.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Fatbike Tour?

This activity is perfect for adventurous souls eager to explore Montreal’s outdoors in winter, families with older children looking for a safe, active outing, or couples and friends wanting a fun, scenic challenge. The affordable price makes it accessible, and the inclusion of all necessary equipment and guidance means you can simply focus on enjoying the experience.

It’s a fantastic way to combine sports, nature, and sightseeing—all wrapped up in a manageable time frame. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, the big tires of a fatbike make winter riding surprisingly straightforward and enjoyable.

If you’re after a distinctive outdoor activity that combines scenic views, physical activity, and local flavor, this fatbike ride along the Lachine Canal is well worth considering. It offers a genuine taste of Montreal’s winter charm, presented by passionate guides who want you to have fun and stay safe.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, but only children over 5 years old. Keep in mind that you’ll need to bring appropriate winter gear and ensure your child can handle bike riding in snow.

What should I wear for the ride?
Bring warm winter clothing, including gloves, hats, and outdoor layers. The activity is outdoors in cold weather, so dressing in layers is best to stay comfortable.

How long is the trail?
The winter trail extends approximately 13 km from Lock No. 5 in Lachine to Old Montreal. You can choose to ride for 1 or 2 hours, depending on your pace and interest.

What equipment is included?
Your rental includes a fatbike, helmet, and a phone holder, along with a short briefing from an instructor. The instructor will adjust the bike to fit you and offer riding tips.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility helps plan your trip with confidence.

Is prior biking experience necessary?
Not necessarily. The bikes are designed for stability and ease of use, and guides are there to help you feel comfortable. However, basic biking skills and comfort riding in snow are recommended.

Where do I meet for the activity?
Enter through the main entrance on St-Ambroise Street and look for shop #136, or you can arrive directly at the Lachine Canal.

In short, this fatbike rental experience offers a fun, scenic, and authentic way to enjoy Montreal’s winter landscape. With friendly guidance, good value, and a stunning trail, it’s a perfect outing for anyone eager to combine outdoor activity with sightseeing. Just dress warmly, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready for a memorable ride on the snow-covered canal.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby