Don’t let the cold weather stop you. Winter can be the best time to go hiking if you know where to go. The best winter hikes in Quebec can be found all over the province, so no matter what area you find yourself in, you can experience worthy scenery within a short drive.
People come from all over the world to explore the Quebec wilderness, so to make the most of your time, use this guide below and stay tuned for part 2.
1. Parc National de la Jacques-Cartier Snow Walk
Nearest City: Quebec City
Kms of Trails: 100+
Scenery: ★★★★★
Difficulty: ★★
Spanning over 670 square kilometres, this national park is home to countless trails suitable for all levels of hikers. One of the main reasons Parc National de la Jacques-Cartier is considered the best place in Quebec for winter hiking is its diverse range of trails.
Hikers can easily spend days exploring the park and never get bored. The trails vary in length and difficulty, from short and easy walks to longer and more challenging treks.
2. Mont-Tremblant Winter Hiking
Nearest City: Montreal/Mont-Tremblant
Kms of Trails: 80+
Scenery: ★★★★
Difficulty: ★★★
Mont Tremblant has a vast network of over 50 trails covering a total distance of 80 kilometres.
The trails are clearly marked, making navigating through the beautiful snowy landscape easy.
As you hike through the snow-covered trails, you will be surrounded by towering pine trees, frozen waterfalls, and majestic mountains. The contrast of the white snow against the vibrant green of the evergreens is truly a sight to behold.
3. Gatineau Park Nocturnal Snowshoeing
Nearest City: Ottawa/Gatineau
Kms of Trails: 60+
Scenery: ★★★★
Difficulty: ★★★★
During the winter season, Gatineau Park takes on a whole new level of beauty and adventure with its nocturnal snowshoeing experience.
This one-of-a-kind experience allows visitors to explore the park’s tranquil winter wonderland under the stars and moonlight. The park offers guided tours with knowledgeable and experienced guides, providing a safe and educational experience for hikers.
4. Parc National d’Oka, Walking During the Cold Season
Nearest City: Montreal/Oka
Kms of Trails: 35+
Scenery: ★★★★★
Difficulty: ★★
The main highlight of winter hiking at Parc National d’Oka is witnessing the snow-covered trees and frozen lakes, which provide picture-perfect winter wonderland scenery.
The park is also home to various wildlife, such as deer, foxes, and birds, making it an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts on the hunt for the best winter hikes in Quebec.
It offers multiple amenities, such as heated cabins, picnic areas, and rest stops with fireplaces, providing hikers with a comfortable and enjoyable winter hiking experience near Montreal.
5. Parc National du Bic
Nearest City: Quebec City/Rimouski/Rivière-du-Loup
Kms of Trails: 25+
Scenery: ★★★★
Difficulty: ★★
The Parc National du Bic trails vary in difficulty from easy to challenging, so hikers of all levels are welcome. The park offers a diverse range of breathtaking scenery, including snow-covered mountains, frozen waterfalls, and picturesque views of the St. Lawrence River.
This natural beauty can be enjoyed from various lookout points throughout the park, which also have camping facilities in the winter, allowing hikers to stay overnight and continue exploring the trails.
6. Parc National de la Yamaska
Nearest City: Granby/Montreal
Kms of Trails: 30+
Scenery: ★★★
Difficulty: ★★
Parc national de la Yamaska is a popular destination for winter hiking in Quebec, and for good reason. The trails wind through a beautiful forest and provide scenic views of the Yamaska River and its surrounding landscapes.
The trees are covered in glistening snow, and the river is often frozen, creating a magical winter wonderland to explore.
Hikers should come prepared with enough water and snacks for their journey, as there are limited rest stops or facilities available. But this also adds to the rustic, natural appeal of the park.
7. Mont Saint-Bruno, Part of the Best Winter Hikes in Quebec
Nearest City: Montreal
Kms of Trails: 27+
Scenery: ★★★
Difficulty: ★★★
With a variety of well-maintained trails, Mont Saint-Bruno offers a unique and rewarding hiking experience that sets it apart from other hiking trails in the province. One of the highlights of winter hiking here is the option to rent snowshoes and explore the trails covered in snow.
This adds a fun and adventurous element to the hiking experience. Try to avoid the weekends as this park can get very busy on nice days.
Quebec Was Made for Winter Hikers
The outdoors is where locals feel at home. Whether it’s spring, summer, fall, or winter, there’s always a hiking trail that needs to be explored. This is why so many visitors return year after year.
No matter how often you visit, there’s always another one of the best winter hikes in Quebec. Start your own checklist with these guides to experience the best Quebec has to offer.
- 5 Best Places to See the Stars in Quebec
- Best Quebec City Hiking According to Season
- Best Hiking in the Eastern Townships: Complete Guide
- 5 Best Day Trips from Quebec City – Nearest to Farthest
Looking for Tours, Activities and Planned Outings?
When I look for things to do in my destination, I always have a look at Viator, GetYourGuide, Manawa and sometimes even Expedia. It’s first off a great way to find out what there is to do, but always a quick and easy method to book cheaply and efficiently with these renowned platforms.
Wanna save this article for later? Pin it to your Pinterest board!
No Comments