Snowmobiling in Canada : the 10 best spots

Winter Canada, with its vast snowy expanses and breathtaking landscapes, is a true paradise for snowmobile enthusiasts. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced enthusiast, the possibilities are endless for an intense experience on the icy trails.

A snowmobile tour in Canada is certainly an unforgettable adventure!
 

#1. Saint-Alexis-des-Monts, Quebec

Snowmobiles in the Laurentian Mountains
A day of snowmobiling in the Laurentians: guaranteed thrills!

It is in a superb setting formed by the Laurentian Mountains that Saint-Alexis-des-Monts is located. Known for its countless lakes, beautiful landscapes, and fish-filled rivers, the region is just as attractive in the summer season as it is under the snow!

The Sacacomie Hotel, nestled in the heart of preserved nature, is the ideal base for an unforgettable winter experience. The vastness of the thick forest surrounding the hotel and the Mastigouche Wildlife Reserve lends itself particularly well to snowmobile tours, allowing visitors to discover wild landscapes before returning to the full-board comfort of the hotel.

 

#2. Revelstoke, British Columbia

Snowmobile trails in Revelstoke
The Monashee Mountains near Revelstoke

Revelstoke is famous for its abundant snowfall and varied terrains. With impressive annual snowfalls and a variety of terrains, it is a prime destination for snowmobile enthusiasts.

Among the local companies offering these excursions, Uncharted Society offers guided Ski-Doo snowmobiles adventures, allowing participants to safely discover the surrounding mountains. Their full-day raid on Mount Frisby is particularly popular for fully enjoying the snowmobile's capabilities. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, to fully enjoy the region's snowy landscapes.

 

#3. Lac Morency, Quebec

Snowmobiling in the forest
Snowmobiling through snowy forests

Just an hour from Montreal, Lac Morency offers an enchanting setting for snowmobiling. The trails are suitable for all levels, for hikes ranging from one hour to a full day through frozen lakes, remote areas and snowy forests.

With Aventures Plein Air, operating for over 20 years in the Laurentians, full training on driving techniques, tips and speed regulation is provided to ensure your safety. People can also combine their snowmobile experience with other typically Quebec winter activities like dog sledding, making Lac Morency an essential destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

 

#4. Haliburton, Ontario

Trail in Haliburton Forest
The forest landscape of Haliburton

In the heart of Ontario, near the famous Algonquin Park, Haliburton offers an impressive network of well-maintained trails. It is an ideal region for those seeking an accessible and friendly experience, thanks to extensive well-maintained networks through conifers and frozen lakes.

Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve Ltd stands out for its groomed trails within a 100,000-acre sustainably managed private forest. Their excursions include the provision of snowmobiles, helmets, tips and guidance by experienced guides, ensuring a safe and memorable experience in a preserved setting.

 

#5. Whistler, British Columbia

Snowmobile on a trail in Whistler
A sporty winter in the Whistler area!

Known for its spectacular mountain landscapes, Whistler offers snowmobile trails that wind through snowy forests. The vast expanses around Whistler allow adventurers to discover breathtaking panoramas and immerse themselves in the Canadian wilderness.

Ride Whistler offers guided half-day or full-day rides in the backcountry, adapted to participants' skill levels. And here is our tip : for already experienced adventurers looking for more than the passion for the sport, Ride Whistler offers a snowmobile excursion to a cave on the Pemberton ice cap, to explore ancient ice formations.

 

#6. Sainte-Christine-d'Auvergne, Quebec

Traditional chalet and snowmobile
Au Chalet en Bois Rond offers beautiful snowmobile opportunities

In the heart of the Portneuf region, the tourist village Au Chalet en Bois Rond allows for a unique winter experience with its 79 authentic wood chalets! Nestled in an exceptional natural environment, between a myriad of frozen lakes and the Sainte-Anne River, this site offers stays combining comfort and adventure.

Snowmobile enthusiasts will be delighted with the rental center and direct access to the region's marked trails, through snowy forests and pristine landscapes. After a day of adventure, the comfort of luxurious chalets, equipped with private spas and stone fireplaces, allows for well-deserved relaxation in a warm Quebec ambiance!

 

#7. The Saguenay Fjord, Quebec

The Saguenay fjord by snowmobile
A breathtaking view of the Saguenay fjord | Photo credit: Josianne Dufour

The Saguenay fjord, with its majestic landscapes, offers one of the most beautiful playgrounds for a winter in Canada. Exploring this region by snowmobile not only lets you discover the fjord but also the exceptional views of the Saint Lawrence River and the Monts-Valin.

From the 5-star Farm, located on the North Shore near Tadoussac, visitors can discover trails offering spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks. The establishment offers circuits suitable for all levels, from a one-hour discovery ride to full-day snowmobile excursions.

 

#8. Golden, British Columbia

Mountains in the Golden area
Kicking Horse viewpoint near Golden

Snowmobiling is a popular winter activity in Golden, British Columbia. With over 240 km of groomed trails and several dedicated areas, it is a popular destination for snowmobilers of all levels.

On-site, Golden Snowmobile Rentals stands out with its fleet of snowmobiles and certified guides. Enjoy family trails and backcountry adventures for the more experienced! It is an essential stop for a trip to Western Canada in winter.

 

#9. Mont-Laurier, Quebec

Snowmobiles from the Mekoos outfitter
A dream setting for a snowmobile excursion from the Mekoos Outfitter

Located north of Mont-Laurier, the Mekoos Outfitter offers an exceptional snowmobiling experience in the heart of the Hautes-Laurentides. Thrill-seekers can explore over 500 km of marked trails winding through a wild area dotted with 135 lakes. Take on the Devil's Mountain, head towards Windigo Falls, or the Baskatong Reservoir, revealing breathtaking views.

The typical outfitter also offers dog sledding excursions and ice fishing sessions with expert advice. At the end of the day, travelers will enjoy returning to their cozy full-board rooms.

 

#10. Saint-Raymond, Quebec

Snowmobile ride
Snowmobile excursion in the Vallée-Bras-du-Nord

Located in the beautiful Portneuf region, Saint-Raymond stands out as a prime destination for snowmobile enthusiasts in Quebec. Location Haute-Matawinie, a true reference in the field, offers a total immersion with privileged access to over 1200 km of trails winding through the Vallée-Bras-du-Nord.

To enrich the adventure, some packages include gourmet stops during a day of snowmobiling, with tasting of local products, or traditional ice fishing sessions.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

When to snowmobile in Canada?

The optimal season for a snowmobile adventure in Canada generally extends from mid-December to the end of March. Of course, weather conditions can change, and updates should be followed in real time on site.
 

What license is needed to drive a rental snowmobile in Canada?

The driver must be at least 18 or 21 years old depending on the locations and must have a driver's license (standard, in Latin alphabet) as well as a bank card in their name. For more details, also check out our article on snowmobile rentals in Canada.
 

Winter suits, gloves… What equipment is needed for a snowmobile tour in Canada?

The activity often includes "extreme cold" equipment (suit, shoes, gloves...), essential for the best snowmobiling experience under good conditions, and accompaniment by a professional guide. A deductible is expected (generally around $3000 per snowmobile) in case of accident or theft, via the driver's credit card.
 

Where is the best place for snowmobiling in Quebec during a stay in Montreal or Quebec City?

If you're staying in Montreal in winter but want to enjoy an adventure day, you can reach Lac Morency in just one hour. And if you are in the vicinity of Quebec City, Saint-Raymond and Sainte-Christine-d'Auvergne are also accessible in less than an hour. The vast snowy expanses and marked trails to explore by snowmobile are never far away! And for a deeper immersion, opt for a full-board stay in an outfitter or an inn in the heart of the forest!
 

Dog sledding, ice fishing, snow hiking... what other activities during winter holidays in Canada?

Winter activities in Canada can be sporty, such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding rides, or traditional ice fishing. But they can also be more contemplative with the discovery of local traditions. In Canada, winter is a season celebrated through numerous customs such as the traditional sugar shack where maple syrup is enjoyed on snow, or the grand winter festivals like the Quebec Winter Carnival.
 

Can you do a grand snowmobile raid during a stay in Canada?

Yes, it is completely possible to combine several exceptional spots as we propose in our ultimate snowmobile tour in Quebec!

 

Canada abounds with exceptional destinations for snowmobile enthusiasts, each offering its own charm and characteristics. Whether you wish to explore untouched landscapes or test your limits on demanding trails, the country has everything you need to satisfy your desires.

Ready to set off on an adventure? Then put on your suit and discover our selection of Canadian winter stays and activities!

Charlène Briand-Loussouarn

Passionate about exploration and eager to discover, I've been lucky enough to turn this curiosity into adventures in the four corners of the globe. I love sharing my passion for travel through stories of escapism and practical advice, and hope to inspire you to pack your suitcase!

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