Quebec City: Jacques-Cartier National Park Snowshoeing Tour

If you’re dreaming of a snowy escape and want to experience Quebec’s stunning winter landscapes, this snowshoeing tour in Jacques-Cartier National Park might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally tried it (yet), I’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers who have, and it sounds like a memorable way to get outside and enjoy nature during the colder months.

What really stands out are the beautiful vistas and the friendly, knowledgeable guides that make the experience both informative and fun. Plus, the convenience of roundtrip transportation from Quebec City takes a lot of the logistical stress off your plate. That said, it’s not suited for everyone—particularly those with mobility issues or very young children—and the weather can influence the day’s activities. This tour seems perfect for active travelers wanting a low-impact outdoor adventure in a peaceful winter setting.

If you’re someone who enjoys gentle hikes, appreciates scenic outdoor activities, and is open to trying snowshoeing with expert guidance, this trip could be a great fit. It’s especially well-suited for those who value good value, cozy breaks, and learning about local nature from passionate guides.

Key Points

• Convenient transportation from downtown Quebec City makes logistics easy.
• No prior experience needed — just a willingness to walk and enjoy nature.
• Expert guides provide engaging commentary and safety tips.
• Beautiful winter scenery including valleys, rivers, and mountain views.
• Includes all necessary equipment and a cozy lunch with hot drinks.
• Small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures personalized attention.

This tour offers a fantastic way to see Quebec’s winter scenery without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. From the moment you step on the bus, the focus is on making your day comfortable and engaging. The ride from Quebec City to Jacques-Cartier National Park takes about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to settle in and get excited about the adventure ahead.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and Why It Matters

For $107 per person, you’re getting quite a bit. Round-trip transport is a major plus—especially in winter, when driving conditions can be tricky—and it saves you from navigating unfamiliar roads. The tour includes all necessary equipment (likely snowshoes and poles), so you don’t need to worry about renting gear independently. The national park admission fee is covered, and you’ll enjoy a lunch and hot beverage during a cozy break in a heated tent. This makes the experience feel well-rounded and accessible without unexpected costs.

A professional local guide leads the way, offering live commentary in both English and French. You’ll learn about the landscape, local flora and fauna, and maybe even pick up some fun facts about Jacques-Cartier Park you wouldn’t find in a guidebook. Several reviews praise the guides for their friendliness and knowledge, making the day both educational and enjoyable.

The Trail and Scenery

Once at the park, the guide provides easy-to-follow instructions, so no need to worry if you’ve never snowshoed before. We love that the activity is designed to be low-impact, focusing on enjoying the winter landscape rather than athletic prowess. The trails lead you through the valley of Belleau Creek, past the Sautauriski River, and along the forested slopes of the Laurentian Mountains.

Picture walking through snow-laden trees, with the quiet of winter interrupted only by your footsteps and the occasional bird call or wildlife sighting. Several reviews mention how wildlife can be easier to spot in winter, adding an element of surprise and discovery. The stops for photos and rest are well-placed, giving you time to soak in the vistas and capture memories.

The Lunch and Breaks

A highlight for many is the heated tent stop, where you can enjoy a hot drink and a simple, satisfying lunch. Reviewers rave about the delicious snacks—from crackers and jam made from wild blueberries to warm beverages—that keep everyone energized. The breaks are also good opportunities to chat with your guide and fellow travelers, sharing impressions of the scenery and wildlife.

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Timing and Group Size

The schedule is well-organized: departure at 9 am, arriving at the park around 10 am, and starting the guided snowshoe around 10:30 am. The tour wraps up around 2 pm, allowing for a relaxed afternoon returning to Quebec City. The group is limited to 10 people, which ensures personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere. Many reviews mention how helpful and friendly the guides are, willing to accommodate various paces and interests.

Weather and Clothing: Since this is an outdoor winter activity, dressing appropriately is key. The tour recommends warm clothing, and you might want to rent winter gear if you don’t have your own. The weather can influence the experience—if it’s stormy or excessively cold, the tour might be adjusted or canceled, so flexibility is helpful.

Physical Fitness: While no experience is required, the activity is described as suitable for active travelers. The terrain includes hills and slopes, so a reasonable level of fitness will help you enjoy the walk comfortably. Several reviews suggest that the hike can be quite a workout, especially on inclines, so prepare accordingly.

Suitability: This tour isn’t recommended for children under 8 or those with mobility impairments, given the walking and outdoor terrain. But if you’re generally active and enjoy nature, it’s a fantastic way to spend a day.

Cost and Value: At $107, this tour offers good value, considering the included transportation, equipment, lunch, and guiding service. The small group size enhances the experience, making it more personable than large tours.

From multiple reviews, it’s clear that the guides make a big difference. Travelers frequently mention how friendly, organized, and knowledgeable their guides are, often citing specific examples like learning about birch and fir trees or wildlife behaviors. Many rave about the scenery, describing it as “beautiful,” “breathtaking,” and “serene,” which is exactly what you want from a winter outdoor adventure.

Several reviewers appreciated the snacks and hot drinks, calling them “delicious” and a perfect way to warm up after some exertion. Others mention how the hills and slopes provided good exercise but still felt manageable, especially with stops and breaks.

The overall tone is one of satisfaction, with many calling it a highlight of their Quebec trip. The fact that the tour maintains a high rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 99 reviews indicates a consistent positive experience.

If you’re a traveler who enjoys being active outdoors, appreciates scenic landscapes, and values expert guidance, this snowshoeing tour offers a delightful way to experience Quebec in winter. It’s best suited for those who are reasonably fit and comfortable walking in snow, but don’t need to be seasoned hikers. The inclusive nature of the activity, combined with warm breaks and a small-group atmosphere, makes it accessible and enjoyable.

While it isn’t designed for very young children or people with mobility issues, it’s perfect for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers looking for a well-organized, scenic, and educational winter adventure. The high praise from past guests underscores that it’s a reliable choice if you want to explore Quebec’s snowy forests with a bit of guidance and a lot of beautiful views.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transport from downtown Quebec City, which saves you the hassle of arranging your own travel.

Do I need prior snowshoeing experience?
No. The guide explains easy-to-follow techniques, and the activity is suitable for all walking abilities—if you can walk, you can snowshoe.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing is recommended, and you might consider renting winter gear if needed. The tour provides all necessary equipment, but dressing in layers helps.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, with the guided snowshoeing part starting around 10:30 am and ending around 2 pm, including breaks.

Can children participate?
The tour isn’t recommended for children under 8 years old, mainly due to the terrain and outdoor conditions.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to fair weather conditions. If the weather is unsuitable, the experience could be canceled or rescheduled, so flexibility is advised.

What is included in the price?
All equipment, transportation, a guide, park entrance fee, lunch, and hot drinks are included.

Is the group small?
Yes, groups are limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Embarking on this snowshoeing adventure in Jacques-Cartier Park promises a peaceful, scenic day amid some of Quebec’s most beautiful winter landscapes. Whether you’re after gentle exercise, stunning views, or simply a break from city life, this tour offers a reliable and well-loved way to embrace the season.

You can check availability for your dates here: