“I am in love with Gatinau Loppet” – Get ready for 2026
3 Questions to Gatnieau Loppet Course Director Réjean Larouche
Why is the Gatineau Loppet special to you?
“In winter, my passion… is cross-country skiing! I love this sport in all its forms—the cold, the glide, the scenery, nature. For me, there’s nothing better! Over 50 years ago, I left my native Saguenay and had a winter encounter that would mark the rest of my life: the magnificent ski trails of Gatineau Park—with their legendary names like ‘Mile a Minute’ and ‘Merry Go Round.’
Then, in the 1980s, I discovered the ultimate activity to celebrate winter and my love for cross-country skiing: the Gatineau Loppet (known in the 1980s as the Gatineau 55, and in the 1990s as the Keskinada Loppet). Our “love story” (between the Gatineau Loppet and me…) has grown over all these years—first as a participant in several editions, and then, in the mid-2000s, I had the opportunity to get involved as a volunteer. For more than 10 years now, I’ve been co-leader of the Course and Signage team, first with my mentor, Yves Lafrenière, and more recently with another valued collaborator, André Desrochers. I’ve also been a member of the Board of Directors for over six years.
I admit it: I’m in love with the Gatineau Loppet! I love this winter celebration of cross-country skiing that brings together thousands of happy people. I love that everyone takes part for their own goals and enjoyment. I love how it has become more and more open and inclusive.
…And I’m proud to be part of a team dedicated to organizing such a wonderful event for its community!
A tip for participants of the 50 km race?
In April 2025, I took part in the Fossavatgangan in Iceland, a superb 50- kilometre Loppet. For safety reasons, each participant was required to carry a small backpack containing: a down jacket, spare gloves or mitts, a toque, some snacks, a cellphone, etc. The Gatineau Loppet course is simply magnificent—but it’s also demanding and challenging. The fastest skiers will complete it in just over two hours of intense effort, but most participants will ‘enjoy’ the course for between four and seven hours! Of course, the organization provides several feed stations and rescue teams for your safety. But why not, as suggested in Iceland, bring along a few items that could offer comfort (and warmth) in case of a problem—whether physical or with your equipment.
A memorable memory?
It’s a ‘memory’ that comes back every year! On the Saturday and Sunday mornings of the Gatineau Loppet—very, very early (or rather, late at night…)—I’m in the Park finalizing the course signage. Alone in the vastness of the Park; the cold stinging your face, numbing your hands… and then, slowly, the sun rises on the horizon! And you feel perfectly at peace, right where you’re meant to be.”
A Park with a fascinating history
The park’s territory has been inhabited for over 9,000 years by Indigenous peoples, notably Algonquian nations. They used the area for portage, hunting, and trade long before the arrival of Europeans. The name “Gatineau” comes from the Gatineau River, which is believed to derive from the name of a 17th-century fur trader — possibly Nicolas Gatineau or one of his sons — who operated in the region. During the colonial and post-colonial periods, the area became a site of exploration, fur trading, settlement, and resource exploitation — including logging, forestry, and hydro development.
Today, the park covers approximately 361 km². It is managed by the National Capital Commission (NCC) as part of the National Capital Region of Canada.
Message from the Executive Director – Jérôme Poulin
“As autumn’s colors unfold, the Gatineau Loppet team is already hard at work preparing for the 2026 edition. An exceptional event is on the horizon — filled with discoveries, emotions, and unique experiences for all cross-country ski enthusiasts.
Reserve your spot now and take advantage of the best rates before registration fees increase on December 1st, 2025.”
Special Hotel Offer
Enjoy an Exclusive Discount at the Event’s Official Partner Hotel: Château Cartier Hôtel & Resort:
- An exceptional Nordic spa
- Two gourmet restaurants
- A festive and friendly atmosphere
- Shuttle service to the start area
Discount Code: “GaitneauLoppet2026”
A strong Winter 2026 in Quebec
The Forecasts are out — and plenty of snow Is coming. The Weather Network and The Farmers’ Almanac have released their winter 2025/26 forecast, and Quebec is in for a snowy season. Expect powerful storms and frequent snowfalls — perfect conditions for the Gatineau Loppet.
Get your skis ready!
