Jacques-Cartier National Park is a glacial valley north of Québec City, and in winter it becomes a snowshoe and ski destination. This guided outing lasts about six hours, taking a group on snowshoes through the winter forest with a guide who points out signs of wildlife and the landscape of the valley, and breaks for lunch in a heated tent. It is rated 4.9 by guests, with dozens of reviews, and it is one of the best-regarded winter activities in the region. The snowshoeing is accessible to beginners, since snowshoes are simple to use, though the day is long enough to require reasonable fitness. It is seasonal, running in winter when snow conditions allow, and details such as pick-up and the exact route should be checked when you book.
Why snowshoe
The quiet is the point. The valley’s steep slopes, frozen river and snow-laden spruce make a striking scene, and snowshoes let you walk where boots would sink. The guide explains tracks and wildlife, and the lunch in a heated tent is a welcome break and part of the charm. Wildlife sightings depend on luck and conditions, so treat them as a bonus rather than a promise. This is a different winter experience from the ice hotel or the Carnaval, a quiet one among trees and snow rather than a festival.
Planning
Dress in layers, with thermal base layers, an insulated waterproof outer layer, a hat, gloves, warm socks and waterproof boots, and bring sunglasses and sunscreen for bright snow. Check whether snowshoes and poles are included, the pick-up and transport arrangements, and the cancellation and weather policies when you book. The outing runs in winter only, so check the available dates, and consider the depth of the snow and temperature on the day. Because the day is long, bring water and snacks, and tell the operator in advance about dietary needs for the lunch.
Who it suits
Active couples, groups of friends and families with teenage children who enjoy winter outdoors. It is less suited to young children, to those with limited fitness, and to visitors who dislike the cold. A guided hike is also offered in the warmer months through the park, so check the seasonal choice if your trip is outside winter. Pair the outing with a night at the Hôtel de Glace or a soak in a Nordic spa, and a warm dinner in Saint-Roch.
Cancellation terms are shown at checkout, so confirm them before you commit. On the day, apply sunscreen even in winter because snow reflects strong light, keep spare gloves and a dry pair of socks in your bag and eat a solid breakfast before the outing.
Follow the guide’s instructions on pace and staying with the group, and tell the guide if you are cold or tired. Photography in low temperatures drains batteries, so keep your phone warm in an inside pocket and carry a spare power bank. Wear a small backpack rather than a shoulder bag so your hands stay free, and agree a meeting plan with your companions in case the group spreads out on the trail. If the weather turns severe, the operator may change the plan, so check your email and the evening before.
What to expect
The experience
A guided six-hour snowshoe outing in Jacques-Cartier National Park with wildlife spotting and a lunch in a heated tent.
Best time
Winter, when snow conditions allow; check the available dates when you book.
How long
About 6 hours.
Tips
Dress in warm layers, bring water and snacks and check what equipment and transport are included.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active winter visitors who want a quiet day in a snowy valley.
- Families
- Better for teenagers; check the operator’s age and fitness requirements.
- Couples
- A calm, scenic winter outing with a warm lunch.
- Pair with
- The Hôtel de Glace and a Nordic spa afterwards.
- Time needed
- About 6 hours including travel.
Good questions
When does the snowshoe tour run?+
In winter, when snow conditions allow. Check the available dates when you book.
Do I need experience?+
No. Snowshoes are easy to use, though the day is long and needs reasonable fitness.
What is included?+
A guided snowshoe outing, wildlife spotting and a lunch in a heated tent. Check what equipment and transport are included when you book.
What should I wear?+
Thermal layers, an insulated waterproof outer layer, hat, gloves and waterproof boots.
Is there a summer version?+
A guided hike runs in the park in the warmer months, covered under the Jacques-Cartier National Park page.
