Plein air Sutton: Caring for the Environment…and People!

A century-old forest, well-maintained trails, and activities for all levels: Plein air Sutton has established itself as a must-visit 4-season outdoor destination in the Eastern Townships, driven by a community of passionate volunteers. General Manager Pascal Vinh Nguyen, who has been in charge for four years, initiated the Green Steps certification process for sustainable tourism. Since then, numerous initiatives have been undertaken.

What Has Plein air Sutton Implemented over These Last Years?

“We’ve established measures such as installing compost bins, we’ve been striving to source locally, we’re phasing out single-use plastic containers, and replacing our two-stroke equipment—chainsaws, leaf blowers and weed eaters—with electric models. Simple yet effective measures,” explains Pascal Vinh Nguyen. “The Green Steps certification process has also led us to draw up a vision statement on sustainable development, which serves as a guide for our actions and for improving our practices.”

You’ve adhered to the Leave No Trace Program. What does this involve exactly?

“Joining the Leave No Trace program means you are committing to protecting our natural spaces by promoting their responsible use. It’s mainly about raising awareness. I think many people believe that simply by picking up their trash when hiking is enough, but respecting the trails involves much more, and we seize every opportunity to share this information with our visitors!”

The Leave No Trace Program is based on the vision that everyone enjoys the outdoors in a way that values and protects our environment now and for generations to come. Despite the fact that outdoor recreation centres and organizations constitute key links in transmitting this vision, we can all join in this movement individually by respecting these seven Leave No Trace principles:

The Social Aspect of Sustainable Tourism is Also Important for Plein air Sutton, Right?

“We sometimes forget that sustainable tourism also means taking into account not only the environmental impacts but also the social and economic aspects, explains the general manager. We make sure to offer free activities to residents during our events (Fatbike Extravaganza, À fond la glisse, Festival Plaisir d’hiver and our Vélo-Locaux weekends).”

“At Plein air Sutton, we’re also very much aware of the work done by our volunteers,” says Pascal Vinh Nguyen. “Without the twenty or so patrollers, trail maintenance workers, snow groomers, administrators… Plein air Sutton simply couldn’t operate.” In fact, that’s why the general manager acquired an app to keep track of the time volunteers donate to the cause. “So, by tallying up their hours, we can offer them discounts at certain local businesses such as the boutique Cycles Campus and Auberge Sutton Brouërie just to show our appreciation towards our volunteers. This way, the town merchants also benefit from our trails!”

Planning a Visit To Plein air Sutton? some Good to Know Information

Whether you’re a mountain biking enthusiast or looking for a winter getaway, Plein air Sutton has something for everyone. In summer, its 47 km of trails for all levels invite you to explore a centuries-old forest at your own pace. When winter arrives, the network transforms: cross-country skiing, fat biking, and winter hiking take over to extend the fun. Equipment rentals are available year-round, and daily access fees, which vary depending on the activity, can be paid for online or on-site. And to extend the adventure, several Huttopia Sutton cabins offer direct access to the trails. It doesn’t get much more immersive than that!

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