Skiing (Hok Ski) Excursion in Jacques-Cartier National Park

If you’re looking to enjoy winter in Quebec City with something more active than just strolling through charming old streets, the Skiing (Hok Ski) Excursion in Jacques-Cartier National Park might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally tried it, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of an engaging outdoor adventure that’s perfect for those who want to experience snowy landscapes in a relaxed, guided setting.

What really appeals about this tour is the combination of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, which keeps it accessible, yet interesting. Plus, the small group size, limited to just eight people, promises a personalized touch that’s often missing in larger tours. One thing to consider is that this experience is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness—it’s not a casual walk in the park, but it’s manageable for most active travelers. So, if you’re craving an authentic outdoor experience that offers scenic views, wildlife spotting, and some actual skill-building, this trip might be just right for you.

Key Points

• Perfect for active travelers interested in learning ski-shoeing, a mix of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
• Small-group setting enhances personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Includes gear, instruction, and cozy lunch with vegetarian options, adding value to the price.
• Beautiful park scenery and wildlife watching opportunities, with a guide to enhance your understanding.
• Operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately and be prepared for winter elements.
• Cancellations are flexible, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

What Is the Ski-Shoeing Tour in Jacques-Cartier National Park?

This isn’t your typical snow adventure. The Skiing (Hok Ski) Excursion combines cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in a way that’s approachable yet still offers a good workout. The activity is guided, meaning you’ll learn the techniques from a professional, which is especially helpful if you’re new to either sport or want to improve your skills.

The tour runs for roughly 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to breathe in the fresh air, enjoy the scenery, and perhaps even spot some wildlife. The itinerary is structured to help you get comfortable with the equipment early on—so don’t worry if you’re a beginner—before moving onto more challenging terrain. The overall goal is to help you master the basics while soaking in the tranquility of the Quebec woods.

The Itinerary & Day Breakdown

The day begins with pickup in Quebec City at 9 am, which is a thoughtful touch, especially if you’re staying downtown and don’t want to worry about transport. After about an hour’s drive, you’ll arrive at Jacques-Cartier National Park. The scenery here is striking—think snow-draped trees and quiet trails that seem to stretch forever.

Once at the park, the guide will help you get suited up with equipment and teach you the essentials of ski-shoeing. This initial part is key: it ensures you’re comfortable, safe, and ready for the trails ahead. Most reviews emphasize how patient and knowledgeable guides are, often spending extra time to teach proper techniques, which really makes a difference.

The first couple of kilometres are dedicated to getting familiar with your gear. This is a good chance to learn the basics, and many find this part quite enjoyable—especially if you’re trying it for the first time. Once confident, you’ll head to a cozy refuge for a lunch break, with hot beverages and vegetarian options available. The food is typically described as cozy and delicious, giving you a little warm-up in the middle of your outdoor adventure.

Post-lunch, the terrain may become a bit more technical, involving ascending and descending slopes, similar to telemark skiing. Here, the guide helps you develop confidence on uneven ground. The experience is designed to be challenging but rewarding, and several reviews mention how well the guides accommodate different skill levels, whether you’re a beginner or more experienced.

The day wraps up around 2 pm, with you returning to the starting point by 3 pm, and then heading back to Quebec City by 4 pm. It’s a well-paced day that balances activity, learning, and relaxation.

The Experience: What You’ll See & Feel

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the scenic winter landscape of Jacques-Cartier National Park. Expect snow-covered trees, quiet trails, and the occasional wildlife sighting—deer and moose are common in this area. Many reviews describe the park as magical and peaceful, especially when the snow is freshly fallen.

The hot chocolate and lunch are often praised, providing a cozy break amid the cold. It’s a thoughtful touch that adds comfort and makes the whole experience more enjoyable. Several travelers mention how their guides went above and beyond, with one reviewer sharing that their guide made homemade hot chocolate mid-journey—a small gesture but with a big impact on morale.

The activity itself is quite adaptable, with beginners learning the basics and more athletic participants challenging themselves on steeper slopes. The terrain is mostly level with some slight inclines, making it accessible yet engaging. The snow conditions, combined with the scenic backdrop and wildlife, create a peaceful environment, perfect for taking photos or simply soaking in the winter wonderland.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for adventurers interested in learning new skills—it’s a chance to pick up ski-shoeing, which isn’t as common as downhill skiing. It suits those who appreciate small-group experiences, personalized guides, and scenic outdoor activities.

While many reviews mention the activity is not overly strenuous, a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended. It’s not suited for those who dislike cold weather or outdoor exertion, but it’s also not so hard that experienced skiers won’t find it rewarding. If you’re traveling with someone who enjoys being active outdoors and wants a taste of Quebec’s winter wilderness, this tour could be a lovely fit.

The Value of This Experience

At $118.03 per person, this tour offers a lot. You get gear, instruction, transportation, lunch, hot beverages, and the guidance of a knowledgeable professional—all in a setting that’s hard to match. Many travelers feel the price is justified, especially given how personalized and scenic the experience is.

Given the reviews, the small group size (max 10 travelers) really enhances the overall quality. It’s not just a cookie-cutter tour; it’s tailored, friendly, and attentive. Plus, the fact that it operates in all weather conditions, with flexible cancellation policies, makes it a low-risk choice.

Practical Tips Before You Go

• Dress appropriately in winter clothing, warm coat, hat, gloves, and layers. The weather can be cold, and being comfortable makes the experience more enjoyable.
• You don’t need to bring your own winter gear; all equipment is included, but check if you have suitable hiking or leather boots or sneakers.
• The tour starts promptly at 9 am, so plan your pickup or arrival accordingly.
• If you’re unsure about your physical fitness level, the reviews suggest it’s manageable for most—but a moderate fitness level will help you enjoy it more comfortably.
• Cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance, which provides some peace of mind in case of bad weather or changes in plans.

FAQs About the Ski-Shoeing Tour

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guide will teach you the basics, and most find it manageable, especially with patience and guidance.

What should I wear?
Dress in winter clothes, layered appropriately, including a warm coat, hat, gloves, and sturdy footwear. The equipment and gear are provided.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 4 hours, including transportation, instruction, and breaks.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions, but if there’s insufficient snow or bad weather, it might be canceled with the option for a full refund or a different date.

What’s included in the price?
All necessary equipment, professional guides, transportation, lunch with vegetarian options, hot beverages, taxes, and fees.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup from Quebec City is offered, making it convenient to start your day without worrying about logistics.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
While not guaranteed, many travelers hope to spot deer and moose during their trek.

How physically demanding is this activity?
It’s suitable for those with moderate fitness. Some parts are more technical, but guides are there to help you master the terrain.

What if I want to go on a different date?
You can cancel or reschedule up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund or alternative date.

Final Thoughts

This ski-shoeing adventure in Jacques-Cartier National Park offers a wonderful way to get outside, learn new skills, and enjoy Quebec’s stunning winter scenery. The small-group setting, expert guides, and inclusive amenities make it a genuine value, especially for those eager to combine exercise with nature. It’s perfect for active travelers who don’t mind a bit of cold and are ready for an authentic outdoor experience.

If you’re seeking a peaceful, scenic, and engaging winter activity—whether you’re a beginner or have some experience—this tour could be a highlight of your Quebec visit. Just remember to dress warmly, bring your sense of adventure, and be prepared to fall in love with the snowy landscapes!