Jackrabbit Marathon

Point-to-point through the Laurentian highlands north of Montreal. The course follows trails blazed in part by Herman 'Jackrabbit' Johannsen, weaving through maple and birch forests with rolling hills typical of the Canadian Shield. Significant cumulative climbing across the 50km distance.

• Named after Herman 'Jackrabbit' Johannsen — the father of Canadian skiing
• Laurentian highland terrain with rolling hills and mixed forest
• Point-to-point route traversing the heart of Quebec's ski country
• Rich French-Canadian ski culture and heritage
• Maple and birch forests create beautiful winter scenery
• Historic trail connections dating to Johannsen's era

The Laurentians in early March still have reliable snow cover at elevation. Temperatures range from -15°C to 0°C. March conditions can be variable — from deep winter cold to early spring warmth — but the higher terrain helps preserve snow quality.

• Early March dates mean variable conditions from winter cold to spring warmth
• Freeze-thaw cycles possible as spring approaches
• Forest canopy creates variable light conditions
• Hilly terrain is demanding in soft or icy snow

Named after Herman 'Jackrabbit' Johannsen (1875-1987), the Norwegian-born pioneer who is credited with popularizing cross-country skiing in Canada. Johannsen blazed many of the original trails through the Laurentians and skied competitively until well past his 100th birthday. The race celebrates his legacy and the deep French-Canadian ski culture of the Laurentians north of Montreal.

• Herman 'Jackrabbit' Johannsen lived to 111 years old and skied past age 100
• Johannsen blazed many of the original trails through the Laurentians in the 1920s-30s
• The Laurentians are the traditional heartland of Quebec Nordic skiing
• The race is conducted primarily in French, reflecting the region's culture
• Johannsen was inducted into the Canadian Ski Hall of Fame and is considered the father of Canadian skiing
• The Laurentian trails connect historic villages north of Montreal