While the reason for their top choice varied, it didn’t take more than a hot minute before the unanimous choice was decided. As eloquently put by one of us: “For the diehard snowmobiler, no riding season is ever complete without a trip to Québec. It only takes one trip and you’ll be hooked for life.”

Many of our crew members have snowmobiled in Québec countless times – some going back to the 1980’s and 1990’s. As the conversation continued, the enthusiasm for the province as a world-class destination focused in on the attractions and amenities, we had all personally experienced in our travels to Québec.

First and foremost is the incredible network of snowmobile trails that interconnect every area. Luke said, “It doesn’t seem to matter where in the province you ride, the trails are always so well-groomed and so thoughtfully laid out. You can ride your snowmobile to almost any region and you’ll find wide, safe trails and it’s a rarity to ride a whole day and not see at least a couple of groomers out there hard at work.”

He added, “The scenery is flat-out awesome – there are places where you’re riding through rolling meadows and beautiful forests for miles and then you suddenly come up on a quaint village or first-class resort where you’d least expect it. I also love how diverse the terrain is throughout the province. I didn’t believe it until I experienced it first-hand. The Chic-Chocs offer technical deep snow riding rivaling the terrain in Western Canada and the United States, but at an elevation that doesn’t make it hard to catch your breath. Can you ask for anything better?”

AJ said: “I love the fact that Québec is so close in proximity. From where I live in Ontario, it’s only a day’s drive, yet once I cross the border into Québec and start immersing myself into its culture, I feel like I’m experiencing a worldly adventure – like being in Europe. You simply can’t replicate this type of experience anywhere else in North America, and, of course, you can’t find trails like the ones in Québec anywhere overseas”.

“We were impressed with the trail signage. We thought there might be a possibility the language could be a problem but there was zero trouble finding where we were or how far it was to our daily destinations. The local clubs aren’t the only ones that have signs at every intersection; local businesses, restaurants, fuel stations and places for overnight stays also do an incredibly good job of directing you to their place,” stated Vern.

Said longtime staffer, Mark: “I remember the first time I rode in Québec – it was in 1983 and the trails were better than anywhere else even back then. I sometimes wonder if the fact Québec is the home to the modern snowmobile as we know it today didn’t have something to do with the huge effort, they put into creating those 33,000 kms of trails and gaining a thorough understanding of the importance of maintaining them the way they always have.”

“I love the great food,” added another staffer, “and some of the places I’ve stayed overnight have been downright incredible – quaint places tucked back into the countryside with thoughtfully furnished rooms and fabulous dining. It’s really special to stay at places like that after you’ve been on the trails all day!”

During our conversation we soon discovered we were talking about a place that has it all: Great riding, great culture, great accommodation, and great snow! You could say: Riding in Québec is addictive!

We put together a list of some of Québec’s regions and winter tourist sites. When you’re planning a winter vacation these places need to be top-of-mind.

Abitibi-Témiscamingue

This is Québec’s most southwestern region and abuts the province of Ontario for many miles along its western border. Canadians can literally snowmobile from Ontario to Abitibi-Témiscamingue on wide, smooth-groomed trails. Because of its location, there is abundant snow cover and 3500 km of wide, high-quality trails.

It’s a more remote place to ride but incredibly beautiful because of its boreal forests in the north. This means the trees are pretty much all coniferous pines and firs there, growing to less height than you’d see further south in the province where the winter season is shorter.

The scenery is pure, natural and untouched and this is a very good place to see all kinds of wildlife. One thing is certain, you won’t get caught in any traffic jams – spaces are remote and wide open – and unforgettably beautiful!

Visit: abitibi-temiscamingue.org

Eeyou Istchee Baie-James

Eeyou Istchee Baie-James region reaches to Québec’s far north and, because of its far latitude location, it is a bucket-list destination for many snowmobilers who experience its remote, but immaculately-maintained trails carved out of the forests. It’s located in Québec’s uppermost northwestern corner and the all-natural scenery here is magnificent.

There’s a strong list of near-trail and on-trail services available for overnight stays, food, and snowmobile service. This region provides the snowmobiling “experience of a lifetime” and is a must-see location for the most adventurous snowmobile enthusiast.

Visit: escapelikeneverbefore.com

Outaouais

It’s easy to access the Outaouais region’s wide, well-maintained trails because of its western location in the province and its proximity to both Ontario and New York State. This is a breathtaking place to ride a snowmobile! Its range of geography includes scenic valleys, rolling hills and meadows, lakes, woodlands and the opportunity to observe all kinds of northern wildlife.

You can cross from Ontario on your snowmobile at a bridge crossing onto Trail 13 or another bridge taking you onto Trail 43. We suggest you take Trans-Québec trail 43 and experience the smooth-groomed Pontiac Pacific railway trail (92 km), then check out Québec’s longest covered bridge (Marchand Covered Bridge) and – still accessible from Trail 43 – the picturesque Chutes Coulange waterfall.

Visit: tourismeoutaouais.com

Laurentians

Right next to the Outaouais is the Laurentians region. Located in such close proximity to major population centers means trail maintenance is meticulous and frequent by the local snowmobile club volunteers. The big news this year is a new 21-meter-high observation tower has been built at the top of the famous Montagne du Diable (Devil’s Mountain) and is open this winter.

An 11-passenger shuttle is available to take visitors to the summit. You’ll find the trails here are well-signed and you’ll never be far from a town or village where you can dine or stay overnight. Hospitality is the hallmark of the inns, hotels and resorts here and you’ll always feel welcome. You can put in a full day and, after riding literally hundreds of miles, have a delicious meal in quaint, warm fireside surroundings, then fall into a cozy bed for the night.

Visit: laurentides.com

Lanaudière & Mauricie

Since Lanaudière is located only about two hours north of Montréal – and close to Québec City – it’s easy to drive there from both Ontario and the USA. There’s an abundance of inns and resorts that will safely store your vehicle for you while you head out on your snowmobile adventure. Many riders starting here, plan their trip to include both Lanaudière and, heading northeast, visit the Mauricie. There are a number of independent tour companies that will guide you – some will even provide rental snowmobiles. Both of these vast regions offer incredible scenery and legendary wide, safe trails.

Accommodations range from luxurious to rustic and these may be two of the busiest snowmobiling regions in the province. Because of that, trail grooming is done frequently, and you can be assured of excellent riding. Be sure to ride the Pioneers Trail. It’s a one-of-a-kind tour where you’ll observe headstones representing builders of the region. The route will take you to picturesque sites where you’ll discover the region’s heritage and meet a proud and welcoming population.

Visit: snowmobilecountry.ca

Québec City Region

This region, surrounding the major city of Québec, has all the comforts close at hand. There’s a long list of quality, cozy hotels, B&B’s and inns along loop routes heading out from the city. Epicurean? Who isn’t! This is where you’ll find in both European and Québec-style cuisine. Because of its unique charm, Old Québec has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. This international accolade is bestowed on only a few places around the world and is evident from the moment you arrive in the city. If you need a snowmobile rental or guide service for both short and long treks, you can get it here, too. Québec City also hosts several large winter festivals, so if you’re planning your trip, make sure your dates coincide with one of these grand events.

Visit: quebec-cite.com

Charlevoix

Charlevoix region, because of its unique location bordering the St. Lawrence River along its southern edge, offers some of the most breathtaking views imaginable. Not only are the trails designed to be coastal, but there’s the magnificent experience of riding in the mountains, too. Located centrally, Charlevoix is easily accessible from the USA and there’s easy entry for Canadians from both the eastern provinces and from Ontario. You can tour this region on one of many loop routes, some coming from major population centers, or experience Charlevoix on your way through it as part of a longer trans-Québec snowmobile adventure. Innumerable overnight and food establishments are situated along the way! The Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu will be a must-stay for snowmobilers. This huge 5-star hotel features a heated garage, river view, several restaurants, a full range of activities at the hotel, heated outdoor pools, spa, and much more.

Visit: tourisme-charlevoix.com

Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean

If you keep heading east through Charlevoix, you’ll enter the southernmost boundary of Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean. It’s well worth extending your ride, both for bragging rights and for the experience of riding the region’s incredible trail network. Although the land mass in this region is huge, thirteen snowmobile clubs work diligently to groom and maintain this remote trail system. The snowfall is deep and plentiful… and that is paramount to excellent trail grooming!

The season is longer here, often extending into April, so a later season trip, if planned, is unlikely to disappoint. It’s not just about the snowfall, either. Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean offers incredible natural scenery and not just a few vistas (one being Saguenay Fjord), you’ll be remembering for decades. Another “can’t miss” is Mount Apica Viewpoint, part of the Mont-Apica Loop, an extremely beautiful 7-km trail offering incredible scenery at an elevation of over 400 meters.

Visit: saguenaylacsaintjean.ca

Centre-du-Québec

Centre-du-Québec is close to large population centers and because it’s located south of the St. Lawrence River, it’s easy to get to, especially from the United States. Since the population is denser in this region, there are plenty of overnight, service and food establishments, many directly accessible by snowmobile. A view of the St. Lawrence River from the Ô Quai des Brasseurs microbrewery in Bécancour is especially memorable. The clubs and organizations that do the region’s impeccable trail maintenance have also designed a number of shorter loop rides – a “daisy wheel” – of well-signed trails that can be as little as one day or several days long if you wish, branching out from your starting point.

Visit: tourismecentreduquebec.com

Chaudière-Appalaches

Chaudière-Appalaches region is located south of the St. Lawrence and borders the American states of New Hampshire and Vermont. If touring snowmobilers are arriving from these states, it makes good sense for them to plan a trip that would include riding both in this region and in Centre-du-Québec because both adjoin one another. Visitors will be rewarded with a wonderful system of well-signed, interconnected and looping trails that not only take in the region’s numerous sights but offer progression to the adjoining region of Bas-Saint-Laurent to the east.

With 5 must-see attractions, the snowmobile junction between Trails #547 and #549 is breathtaking! You won’t soon forget this section between Mont du Midi and Mont Saint-Magloire. So beautiful, you’ll want to stop everywhere along the way! There are many excellent loop trails branching out from the towns and villages here and there are vast numbers of beautiful inns and resorts – so Chaudière-Appalaches is a perfect place for all levels of riders would like to check out the attractions and scenery of a truly beautiful place.

Visit: chaudiereappalaches.com

Québec by the Sea

These three unique regions are linked together by ferry-crossings of the St. Lawrence River. Côte-Nord, sits north of the St. Lawrence and reaches far and wide, bordering Labrador to the east. Trails here are very good, are well-marked and, especially in the southern part along the big river, offer incredible vistas. The furthest point east and south of the St. Lawrence, is the huge region of Gaspésie.

Here you’ll experience unforgettable sea and mountain views. The terrain is rugged and rocky but the excellent snow cover offers some of the most picturesque trails in Québec and the trails are well signed and meticulously maintained. Snowmobilers visiting Gaspésie need to see Percé Rock. It’s an iconic landmark and is especially impressive in the winter when it’s surrounded by ice. Made famous by its arch-shaped hole carved out by the sea, this giant limestone monolith has fascinated people for centuries.

To get to Percé Rock, ride the Bas-Saint-Laurent – Gaspésie Snowmobile Tour, on Trans-Québec trail #5 to the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula, then take the 18-km (11-mi.) local trail to the village of Percé. Bas-Saint-Laurent is located to the west of Gaspésie, still south of the St. Lawrence River. All three regions of Québec by the Sea offer true Québec-style accommodations and hospitality – plus unforgettable scenery and riding experiences you can only see from the seat of a snowmobile!

Visit: quebecmaritime.ca

4 EASY STEPS FOR PLANNING A SNOWMOBILE TRIP IN QUÉBEC

Check out Bonjour Québec’s website to find Québec’s most iconic trails: bonjourquebec.com

1. Plan your itinerary and make your reservations!

Québec has thousands of kilometers of interconnected trails to explore. Use this tool to map out your trip, complete with must-visit sightseeing spots and accommodations along the way: fcmq.qc.ca

2. Get ready to ride!

A trail permit is essential to ride a snowmobile in Québec, no matter how long the trip is. Easily get yours online now so you’re ready to ride as soon as the trails open. fcmq.qc.ca

3. Stay informed in real time!

Easily access trail maps, get updates on trail conditions, accommodations and more through one convenient app. Download this app: fcmq.qc.ca

4. Ride the right way!

The best way to keep snowmobiling fun and safe for everyone is by respecting your fellow riders and following this code of conduct. fcmq.qc.ca

If you’re not hooked on Québec by now, you certainly will be after you’ve ridden its trails this winter. Plan a trip this year and you’ll be visiting again every year – guaranteed!

Québec in the winter is unlike any other place in North America! Incredible, scenic vistas and meticulously groomed trails are all part of the landscape. You can expect trees covered with mounds of the white stuff, fences covered to the top of the posts and snowmobile trails measuring in meter-depths.

There are more than 20,500 miles (33,000 km) of groomed trails in the province – incredibly, all are safely routed and well-marked with clear trail signage. There are hundreds of quaint, cozy places to stay and even more great places to dine, all accessible by snowmobile.

Take a good look at this list of must-see regions and winter tourist sites in the province. These places need to be top-of-mind with every snowmobiler.

Visit Mastigouche and Rouge Matawin Provincial Wildlife Reserves

Both the Mauricie and Lanaudière regions – Authentic Québec – are easily accessible from the major population centers of Montréal and Québec City and offer fantastic amenities for snowmobilers. This includes rides through two beautiful provincial wildlife reserves (Mastigouche and Rouge-Matawin). Great eating, great overnight stays and scenic lookouts along the way to snowmobile-friendly places like Saint-Donat (Trail 33) and a long list of other cozy, comfortable destinations catering specifically to winter visitors.

Visit: snowmobilecountry.ca

Easily Accessible from Ontario by Snowmobile

Cross by snowmobile from Ontario to Abitibi-Témiscamingue via the Outaouais region using either of two bridges in the Pontiac region.

You can self-guide your ride on groomed trails through the Laurentians for hundreds of miles or book a guided tour to discover some of the many unique, hidden sights of the region. You’ll climb to the top of the famous Devil’s Mountain or “Montagne du Diable” (Trail 13). It is one of Québec snowmobiling’s most visited landmarks and a well-known meeting place for snowmobilers passing through the Upper Laurentians. After a thrilling ride to the top, the view from the summit is breathtaking.

One of Outaouais region’s best snowmobile dream experiences is riding the Pontiac Pacific Railroad along FCMQ Trail 43. This abandoned railway, groomed laser-smooth for 92 km (57 miles), takes you onto the new bridge crossing from Ontario to the western part of the region. You’ll also see the longest covered bridge in Québec (The Marchand Covered bridge ), one of the largest deer yards in the province (Pourvoirie Club des Douze) and the beautiful Chutes Coulonge when you ride Trail 43.

There’s a huge variety of wide, frequently-groomed trails in this part of the province: Valleys, hills, woodlands, wildlife reserves – plus welcoming accommodation for snowmobilers.

Visit: tourismeoutaouais.com, laurentides.com

Consistent Snow Means Incredible Trails!

Both these districts are easily accessed from Ontario. The trail grooming is always flawless in the Eeyou Istchee Baie-James region but there are other great reasons to visit here: Awe-inspiring scenery, a magnificent network of groomed trails and a long menu of inns, motels and dining stops to make your tour memorable. The Festival Folifrets Baie-James is a unique snowmobile competition held for over 50 years in Chibougamau, in the Eeyou Istchee Baie-James region.

There’s a long list of friendly inns, open all winter in Abitibi-Témiscamingue region offering great cuisine guaranteed to give you relaxing comfort after a day of riding the region’s impeccable trail system and taking in its majestic boreal landscapes! Snowmobiling is a cultural experience in Abitibi-Témiscamingue and this is where you’ll find handcrafted accessories designed specifically for riders. Also, the Rouyn- Noranda’s winter festival takes place every January (Trail 93). You’ll always feel welcome in this region and easy snowmobile accessibility to many amenities makes this a super-convenient place to tour.

Visit: abitibi-temiscamingue-tourism.org, escapelikeneverbefore.com

Experience the View from Mont Saint-Magloire

In Centre-du-Québec and Chaudière-Appalaches you can easily ride loop trails without leaving the area or, if you want a longer trip, you can venture across Chaudière-Appalaches to connect with other Québec regions. Located just across the border, you’ll find affordable accommodations adapted specifically to snowmobilers.

There’s a diversity of trails here and the trails offer spacious, open views without a lot of traffic. Drink in the forest, mountain and river scenery.

The view from Mont Saint-Magloire (Trail 549) at the top of the observation tower at 3,000 foot in Massif du Sud regional park is nothing short of spectacular! On a clear day, you can even see the mountains all the way to Maine, including Mount Katahdin. Trails are meticulously maintained and all routes and signage are clearly designated everywhere in these regions.

Visit: tourismecentreduquebec.com, chaudiereappalaches.com

Ride Along the St. Lawrence River

You’ll experience some of the most beautiful winter landscapes in North America when you visit Charlevoix! You can start your adventure at the famous, 5-star Le Fairmont Manoir Richelieu hotel or any of the many great bed & breakfasts, inns and hotels in Charlevoix region. There are some really good snowmobile touring companies located here, too, and you can contact them before your trip and make arrangements. There are exceptional panoramas to be experienced along the St. Lawrence River.

Québec City offers lush accommodation, renowned gastronomy and vibrant big-city life – still close to snowmobile trails!

Discover the Summits of Monts-Valin circuit trails running through the Monts-Valin mountains (Trails 93 & 328). You’ll be riding among four different peaks at an altitude of more than 770m (2,526 feet), offering an incredible view of the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region, and the breathtaking Saguenay fjord in particular.

Snowmobilers flock here with the first snow, often in November, and don’t leave until late spring. The trail network is exceptional, maintenance is constant, services and accommodations are plentiful!

Visit: quebec-cite.com

Unforgettable Vistas Unlike Any Other in North America!

If you’re looking for dramatic sea views, quaint, comfortable inns and fine dining, Bas-Saint-Laurent, Gaspésie and Côte-Nord – Québec by the Sea – are places you’ll want to go this winter! The region is famous for rugged elevations, perfectly groomed trails and the scenery bordering the Estuary and Gulf of St. Lawrence.

Start in Rivière-du-Loup and follow Trans-Québec trail #5 (TQ5). It will take you through the mountains where you’ll experience magnificent views along the St. Lawrence River all the way to the Gaspé Peninsula. Enroute, you’ll see the legendary Percé Rock (Trail 5) and the dynamic Chic-Choc Mountains. With its snowy forest trails and frequent sighting of wildlife, this tour is what snowmobilers dream about!

Visit: quebecmaritime.ca

Yes, there’s no shortage of great snowmobiling places to discover in Québec. Make this winter your year to visit!

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Step #1:

Chart your route when you’re planning at home, using bonjourquebec.com. Here, you’ll find information about each of the regions in Québec, the top trails to visit, all information you need to know before going and way more!

Step #2:

Download the iMotoneige App onto your smartphone and then go to the interactive map available online on the fcmq.qc.ca website. This detailed map includes snowmobile routes and hundreds of on-trail services like lodging, restaurants, parking, repair services and attractions you can take advantage of.

Step #3:

Before you leave home, don’t forget to buy your Québec Trail Permit! Every permit is sold online, so you can already have it displayed on your snowmobile before you leave home. Buy your permit at: fcmq.qc.ca. You can also check the above FCMQ website to learn about any COVID restrictions that may apply this winter.

Step #4:

Québec’s provincial snowmobile federation, the FCMQ, has an official Certificate of Secure Hotels (look for the “Secured Hotel” icon on the iMotoneige App and the online interactive map).  Those qualifying hotels must have security features for snowmobiles such as: A locked garage, locked enclosures, free snowmobile security chains, video surveillance systems or security guard service.

One question I’m often asked is, of all the places I’ve ridden, which is my favorite. Most often, my response is, “Québec’s GASPESIE has to be at the top of the list”!

This region has it all, starting snowfall measured in feet, not inches. The on-trail amenities include gas stations, restaurants and full service clubhouses. The hospitality is amazing and the trails and scenic vistas surrounding the Chic Choc Mountains are world-renowned.

Last winter we experienced a 6-day snowmobile tour that would take us through the Baie St. Laurent and Gaspesie Regions. Our ride started on the heels of another major 3-day deluge of snow with over 3 feet of accumulation.

Our trip started in Rivier-du-Loup with an overnight stay at Hotel Universal, which features heated storage, plenty of parking, 24-hour security, gas next door and Trans Québec Trail 85 out the back parking lot. Our mapped-out 275 km ride day ended up being over 300 km (200 miles) as someone missed a trail (that would be me) and because of this, we arrived a little late to our night’s lodging at Domaine Valga in Saint-Gabriel-de-Rimouski.

This beautiful log Auberge is a perfect example of the many hidden gems you’ll find only in Québec. It turns out this is a very popular destination for Timbersledders as well!

On the second day the sky was clear and blue and the trails were freshly groomed. Our 200 mile day had us riding 579 South, 587 South and Trans Québec 5 to Motel Baie Bleue in Carl-sur-Mer and, once again, a full parking lot of sleds.

Day 3 was our shortest, taking us on a 220 km ride to Motel Fraser in Chandler. The Fraser was packed with snowmobilers and interesting enough it was 50/50 split with folks from Eastern USA and Ontario. We had a great night with lots of good-natured banter from the snowmobile fraternity.

We changed things up a bit on Day 4 with a side trip into the village of Perce to check out the legendary Perce Rock, an incredible sight to behold. As we pulled into Murdochville the height of the snow banks from the previous week’s storm was amazing. Our night’s stay was Auberge Chic-Choc.

Flanked in the south by the St. Lawrence River, Lanaudière region stretches up into the spectacular landscape of the Laurentian and Mauricie regions and is bordered in the north by the Laurentian Mountains.

The territory covers a total area of 5,227 square miles – a true winter paradise where snowmobilers can explore more than 1,400 miles of fantastic trails.

For 30 years the Lanaudière region has been renowned as the best place for snowmobile vacations and as a prime destination, among snowmobile enthusiasts worldwide.

The riding season often begins as early as mid-November, with plenty of snow through most of March.

The typical annual snow coverage in Lanaudière often exceeds 2 metres (over 6 feet) – even more in the north. The average January temperature is around 8° F. During that time, temperatures may range from about 20° F up to the freezing point.

Sudden temperature changes and heavy snowfalls can create great opportunities for different daily experiences!

Welcome in Lanaudière, the no.#1 snowmobile country! Fun is waiting for you.

Start your trip today, visit www.bonjourquebec.com/snowmobile.