Snowshoeing Jacques-Cartier National Park: Guided Winter Hike from Quebec City
Spend a winter morning snowshoeing into the carved valley of Jacques-Cartier National Park with a local guide. This half-day guided tour includes snowshoe rental, a hot lunch in a heated tipi, and round-trip transport from Quebec City.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Temperatures can swing during activity—use moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a waterproof outer shell.
Footwear matters
Wear insulated, waterproof boots with good traction; snowshoe bindings pair poorly with floppy shoes.
Hydrate and snack
Cold air dulls thirst; carry a thermos or insulated water bottle and quick calories for energy on uphill sections.
Respect wildlife
Keep distance from animals and avoid off-trail shortcuts that disturb winter forage and vegetation.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Heated tipi lunch stop along the trail—an intimate, off-trail warming point for photos and stories
- •Early-morning valley lookout near the park entrance for wide-angle views of river meanders and ridge lines
Wildlife
- •Snowshoe hare
- •White-tailed deer (moose possible but less common)
Conservation Note
Sépaq manages the park with emphasis on trail protection and winter habitat; stay on designated routes to avoid compressing sensitive vegetation and disrupting wildlife forage.
The Jacques-Cartier valley is a glacially carved trough that later supported Indigenous use and French-Canadian logging; the park preserves both natural and cultural traces of those eras.
What to Bring
Insulated winter bootsEssential
Keep feet warm and dry during snowshoeing and while waiting at trail stops.
Layered clothing (base, mid, shell)Essential
Allows you to regulate temperature as your exertion changes on the trail.
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Snow glare can be intense—eye protection and UV defense are useful even in cold weather.
Insulated water bottle or thermos
Prevents liquids from freezing and helps maintain hydration on cold outings.
Common Questions
Is snowshoe equipment provided?
Yes—snowshoes and poles are included in the tour price; bring your own boots and layered clothing.
How long is the guided snowshoe portion?
The guided hike is approximately 3 hours; total tour time including transport is about 6 hours from Quebec City.
What if there isn’t enough snow?
The operator monitors conditions; if the tour can’t run due to insufficient snow or severe weather you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
Are children allowed?
Children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult; check age and fitness recommendations with the operator when booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–4 hours
Location
Sainte-Catherine-de-la-Jacques-Cartier, Quebec
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: comfortable with sustained walking on uneven, snowy terrain and short uphill sections
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