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The five most beautiful snowshoeing trails to discover this winter

Mother nature has covered the landscape with a cloak of the most immaculate white. The breathtaking scenery awaits only your arrival and admiration. The winter season brings with it cold temperatures, but there’s no reason not to get out there and be active! It’s the perfect time for certain activities such as snowshoeing. Quebec is graced with the most magnificent trails which become quite magical when the snow covers the land.

There is no better time to discover the five most beautiful snowshoeing trails to stay active this winter while taking in the wonders of the outdoors.

Sentier des Caps

If Charlevoix is a much sought-after destination in the summer months for its stunning landscapes, just imagine it covered in a snowy white blanket. The sentier des Caps covers more than 40 kilometres of beauty with maintained trails offering breathtaking vistas of the Saint Lawrence. Once you've arrived, you’ll have two choices: a hike that will take a few hours or one that will stretch over several days including an overnight stay in on-site accommodations. Some trails begin at St-Tite-des Caps others at Le Massif ski resort. There is certainly no shortage of choices.

Vallée des fantômes

This is a beautiful valley for summer hiking, and it is no exception during the winter months. Fear not, although the name includes « fantômes » (ghosts), the valley is anything but frightening. The name refers to the snow-covered trees which take on the look of ghosts. Situated at the top of the Monts-Valin National Park, the Vallée des fantômes trail is a 6.5 km round trip covering enchanting scenery. Add to that spectacular views of the fjord and you have the most magical hike ever.

Massif du Sud Regional Park

This regional park is a well-kept secret! Hidden at the bottom of the valleys is a frosted river accessible by way of magnificent trails. Take advantage of 40 km of marked trails crossing a myriad of tree varieties and unforgettable vistas. And let’s not forget the many peaks reaching a top altitude 917 m. Thanks to its 8 trails and rich biodiversity, you will feel like you are always covering new ground during your visit.

Mont-Royal Park

Nature in the heart of the city! With its many criss-crossing rails, Mont Royal is a real gem in the heart of the city. It is easily accessible for those who do not want to venture far from home and who may rely on public transit rather than a car. As an added bonus, you can rent snowshoes on site and take advantage of guided night-time hikes on Fridays and Saturdays.

Gatineau Park

A true Quebec gem, Gatineau Park is a short distance from the Nation’s capital and is easily accessible by public transit. Offering 61 kilometres trails that lend themselves to snowshoeing, 55 kilometres are actually reserved for winter snowshoeing. Whatever your level, you’ll find the perfect trail that meets the varying needs of the family. Simply put, a dream come true. It’s also the perfect place for ending a day of snowshoeing fun with a good meal and a hot chocolate in downtown Ottawa-Gatineau.

We’ve described a mere five choices, but Quebec offers an abundance of spectacular snowshoeing trails. If these five are a must for this winter, don’t shy away from discovering the many others that are also quite amazing.