What should I wear for cross-country skiing?
Opt for layered clothing. Wearing several thin layers allows you to add or remove layers if you get too hot or too cold. Also, choose waterproof pants that are comfortable and allow for ease of movement. For more information, see the La Presse article S’habiller pour skier (in French).
If I don’t know which level to choose, can I change groups after the first course?
Make sure to carefully read each lesson description for course-specific information and prerequisites before registering.
By registering, you acknowledge having the prerequisites required for the level you’ve chosen and accept that, if the information you’ve provided is incorrect, you may, for safety reasons, be excluded from the group without reimbursement for the lessons not taken.
I used to cross-country ski several years ago, but would like to improve my technique to make my movements more efficient. What type of lesson is best for me?
Make sure to carefully read each lesson description for course-specific information and prerequisites before registering. If you are still unsure of your current level, we suggest you register for the Beginner Level.
Will more private lessons be added during the winter?
New lessons may be added over the course of the winter. Check our reservations platform regularly for dates and times. Please note that you can only register online.
I used to cross-country ski several years ago, but would like to improve my technique to make my movements more efficient. What type of lesson is best for me?
Make sure to carefully read each lesson description before registering. If you are still unsure of your current level, we suggest you register in the Beginner Level.
What is a typical lesson with Les Amis’ Cross-Country Ski School?
Lessons begin with an introduction to cross-country skiing (apparel, types of skis, waxing) and participant evaluation (ski experience, fitness level, sports background). We then practise technical exercises on our school ski trail (figure 8 loop and short ascents/descents) or on the trails in the park.
Typical lessons also include various exercises to perform on one or two skis, with or without poles. Participants take part in short or long excursions depending on group skill level and progression during the session.
How does the “with equipment rental” option work?
Lessons begin at the indicated time. If you are renting equipment, it is very important to arrive about 15 minutes before the start of the lesson to get your equipment. The equipment is loaned for the lesson only and must be returned at the end of the lesson.
Are ski lessons maintained during bad weather?
We follow Ski de fond Québec’s guidelines on maintaining ski lessons under certain weather conditions. More information will be provided in a Participant’s Handbook to be sent out a few weeks before the beginning of the lessons.
How will I know if my lesson is cancelled or postponed?
An email notifying participants of a postponement or cancellation will be sent out no later than 4 p.m. the day before the lesson.
For safety reasons and because certain factors in the park are beyond our control, we might also be forced to cancel a lesson only a few minutes before it is due to start.
A makeup date is scheduled for all multi-session activities, in case we are forced to cancel a lesson. By registering, you agree to be available on that date. If we are unable to make up a group lesson, we will refund the amount of the lesson.
Who are the ski instructors in the Les Amis de la montagne Ski School?
Our ski instructors are often CEGEP or university students who love cross-country skiing and teaching this winter sport. Most have been skiing since childhood or have competed with various ski clubs across Quebec. Our assistant instructors are often former students who are now old enough to teach.
All our instructors are trained as community coaches with Ski de fond Québec and Nordiq Canada.
Can I check trail conditions online or by phone?
The City of Montréal maintains and manages the cross-country ski trails on Mount Royal. It displays ski conditions (French only) at around 9:00 every morning during the season.
The information is also available by calling 514 280-8989 or on our Winter Site Conditions page.
Where can I get a map of the ski trails?
You can download a map of cross-country skiing trails on Mount Royal in PDF format (in French).
Get ready by watching these video clips
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Video clip 2
Video clip 3