Jacques-Cartier National Park: Skiing Excursion

If you’re hunting for a winter activity that combines outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and a gentle challenge, a guided ski-shoeing tour in Jacques-Cartier National Park might just be your ticket. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a memorable outing suitable for beginners and seasoned snow lovers alike.

What we do love about this experience is its accessibility—no prior skiing experience needed—and the opportunity to explore a protected wilderness landscape in a unique way. Plus, the inclusion of local guides with plenty of knowledge helps ensure you’ll learn about Quebec’s forest while enjoying the crisp winter air. On the flip side, a consideration is that the activity depends on snowfall; if there’s not enough snow, the tour might be canceled, which could disrupt your plans.

This excursion is ideal for travelers who want a low-impact outdoor activity that offers both stunning scenery and a chance to see wildlife in winter. It’s perfect if you’re looking to add an active, nature-based experience to your Quebec itinerary without the intensity of downhill skiing or snowboarding.

Key Points

• Accessible for Beginners: No experience needed, just a willingness to walk and enjoy the outdoors.
• Expert Guides: Insightful guides enhance the learning and photography opportunities.
• Flexible Schedule & Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personal touch.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Includes gear, transportation, park fees, and hot chocolate.
• Weather Dependent: Canceled if there’s not enough snow, but options are available.
• Wildlife Opportunities: Winter creates easier wildlife spotting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Itinerary: From Quebec City to Wilderness Adventure

The day begins with a convenient pickup from your Quebec City hotel—a big plus for travelers who prefer not to worry about logistics. The tour departs at 9 am, giving you a relaxed start to the day, and after about 30 minutes on the bus, you’ll arrive at the main lodge in Jacques-Cartier National Park. This brief journey sets the tone, as you’re transported from urban comfort to the quiet splendor of snow-covered forests.

Once at the lodge, you’ll gear up with ski-shoes and trekking poles—all provided—before learning some simple techniques that make the activity accessible even for complete beginners. The guides are praised for their patience and clarity, making sure everyone feels comfortable before hitting the trails.

Ski-Shoeing: A Hybrid Winter Sport

Ski-shoeing is a mix of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing—a relatively new activity that’s gaining popularity for its low-impact, nature-focused approach. The gear is designed so that if you can walk, you can do this. It offers an excellent way to traverse quiet, scenic trails while experiencing the landscape from a different angle.

The small group setting means you’ll get personalized attention, with plenty of breaks to stop for photos or just soak in the stunning winter scenery. Our reviews highlight the activity’s suitability for all skill levels, with one traveler noting, “It also allowed me to discover telemark,” emphasizing the flexible learning curve.

Wildlife & Landscape: Nature’s Winter Show

One of the tour’s highlights is observing signs of local wildlife. In winter, animals like deer, moose, squirrels, and porcupines are easier to spot against the snow, and your guide will be on the lookout for tracks and signs. As a traveler mentioned, “Wildlife can be easier to spot in the winter landscape,” adding a special element to the hike.

The landscape itself offers a tapestry of snow-dusted trees, frozen rivers, and wide-open vistas, perfect for photography. The guides often encourage capturing these moments, which makes for memorable keepsakes.

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Breaks, Hot Chocolate, and the End of the Day

Throughout the excursion, you’ll have ample opportunities to rest, chat, and enjoy the warmth of hot chocolate—a welcome comfort after a brisk walk. The tour wraps up around 2 pm, allowing plenty of time for the return journey to Quebec City and for you to reflect on your day in the wilderness.

The Practicalities: What to Know Before You Go

Transportation & Group Size

Being picked up directly from your hotel makes this tour especially convenient. The minibus is easily recognizable, and punctuality is appreciated since the guide won’t wait long. With a small group limited to 10 participants, you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience, with personalized guidance and fewer crowds on the trails.

Pricing & Value

At $107 per person, the price includes transportation, gear, park entry fees, a guide, and hot chocolate—a comprehensive package that offers good value. Travelers have commented positively on the overall experience, noting the quality of guides and the stunning views. Given the gear and expertise included, this price makes sense for a half-day outdoor adventure in a protected natural space.

What to Bring & Weather Considerations

You’ll need warm clothing, water, and winter sports gear—though gear rental is available through local providers if you prefer to travel light. Since the activity depends on snow conditions, it’s worth knowing that if there isn’t enough snow, the tour might be canceled with options for rescheduling or a full refund. Travelers have appreciated that flexibility.

Suitable for Who?

This tour is not designed for children under 14, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues or health concerns like heart problems. It’s best for active travelers seeking gentle outdoor fun without the demands of downhill slopes.

Authentic Experiences & Traveler Perspectives

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides for their detailed explanations and patience. One reviewer said, “Our guide Lorenzo was excellent. We learned so much from him about our activity and the culture of Quebec,” showing that the guides enhance both the educational and scenic aspects.

The stunning winter vistas are often highlighted as a core reason to choose this tour. One traveler from France shared, “We had very good weather with good snow and the group was very friendly,” illustrating how favorable conditions can elevate the experience.

On top of that, several reviews mention the opportunity to discover activities like telemark skiing—a reminder that this experience can serve as a stepping stone into broader winter sports.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ski-shoeing excursion offers a wonderful way to explore Jacques-Cartier National Park in winter without the need for prior experience or advanced physical fitness. It provides a balanced mix of guided expertise, scenic beauty, and light outdoor activity—perfect for those wanting a relaxed yet engaging day outdoors.

If you’re visiting Quebec and looking for a family-friendly, nature-focused activity that immerses you in the winter landscape, it’s a solid choice. The small-group format and inclusive approach make it especially appealing for travelers who value personal attention and authentic experiences.

However, if snow conditions aren’t ideal or if you’re seeking high-intensity sports or activities suited for kids or mobility-impaired travelers, you might want to explore other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this activity suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. No prior skiing or snowshoeing experience is needed; the activity is designed to be accessible for most people who can walk.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, water, and winter sports gear if you have it. Gear rental is available online through local providers if needed.

How long does the tour last?
The guided ski-shoeing activity lasts about 4 hours, including transportation, gear fitting, and breaks.

What happens if there isn’t enough snow?
The tour will be canceled, and you’ll be offered the chance to reschedule or get a full refund. The activity is weather-dependent.

Are hot beverages included?
Yes, hot chocolate is provided during breaks, offering a cozy reward after some outdoor activity.

Can I do this tour with children or those with mobility issues?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for children under 14, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility impairments or certain health conditions.

In The Sum Up

For travelers eager to enjoy Quebec’s winter landscape in a relaxed, engaging way, this guided ski-shoeing tour in Jacques-Cartier National Park hits the right notes. It combines beautiful scenery, expert guidance, and a gentle physical challenge, making it perfect for those new to winter sports or outdoor enthusiasts seeking a different perspective on the forest.

The inclusion of transportation, gear, and friendly guides ensures you can focus on the experience, not logistics. While weather-dependent, this tour’s flexibility and positive reviews suggest it’s a reliable choice when snow is ample. It’s best suited for adventurers aged 14 and up who want an authentic taste of Quebec’s wilderness without the fuss of more intense activities.

If you’re looking for a memorable, photo-worthy day in the snow, with knowledgeable guides at your side, this outing offers excellent value and genuine outdoor fun.

You can check availability for your dates here: