No need to go far to enjoy Quebec’s winter joys—they’re just around the corner! Nestled between Montreal and Quebec City, in the heart of Quebec, the Lanaudière and Mauricie regions present an abundance of beautiful outdoor winter experiences. You’ll find a host of encounters with magnificent snow-covered landscapes, along with a thousand discoveries and sensations, from the most classic to the most original, pleasures and moments that vibrate with authenticity. Ready for a truly unforgettable, snow-filled getaway? Here are our top tips for making the most of winter in Lanaudière and Mauricie!
Essential Tips for a Perfect Winter Getaway
Neighbouring Montreal and Quebec City respectively, Lanaudière and Mauricie are two regions that bring the splendors of winter within everyone’s reach. From the life-filled, history-rich river to the wild northern forests and the peaceful countryside, these regions span vast areas full of attractions and experiences waiting to be discovered. That’s why, if you’re planning to stay for a long weekend, a week, or more in Lanaudière-Mauricie, it’s best to stick to one or two accommodations to fully enjoy the richness of these destinations: less time on the road, more freedom and activities!
A Golden Opportunity to Enjoy Winter Nature Departing from Montreal
Craving a nature-filled winter escape to recharge, but don’t have a vehicle? Bonjour Nature has the perfect solution. This solidarity cooperative offers round-trip shuttles from Montreal to experience winter in the Lanaudière region, either through a guaranteed departure package for a one-day getaway with guided transport, or as an independent multi-day package with various activities and accommodations. In winter, Bonjour Nature’s eco-excursions by guided transport cover a wide range of possible themes and activities: dog sledding, winter hiking, snowshoeing, a day of skiing or snowboarding, relaxation at the spa, activities at Mont-Tremblant National Park, and more. For winter packages of two days or more, we’ve fallen for “Yurts and dogsledding – the ultimate northern experience!” This getaway combines a comfortable glamping experience in a yurt in Saint-Calixte with soft snow adventures, as well as agrotourism experiences—two experiences we’re excited to introduce to you right now!
First, in Saint-Liguori, the family-owned company Les Aventures Liguoriennes offers the unique thrill of dog sledding. Here, you’ll discover the daily life of a pack of fifty Alaskan dogs, and you can even learn how to drive your own sled like a real musher before heading out on the stunning snowy trails. Les Aventures Liguoriennes offers various options, from 1.5 to 3-hour rides to half-day packages with accommodation.
Next, an unforgettable visit awaits you at a unique Lanaudière farm in Rawdon. As its name suggests, from meadow to plate, bison take center stage at La Terre des Bisons. This fascinating and delicious tour teaches visitors everything there is to know about raising these majestic animals, as well as elk, which can also be spotted in the pastures along a trail after visiting the Big Game Interpretation Centre. At the farm’s shop, these flavourful local meats are displayed alongside many other homemade and regional products. Yum!
Immerse Yourself in the Holiday Spirit and Indulge in Some Pampering
For those planning an early winter getaway in Lanaudière, we’ve got another white-gold plan. This year, from November 28 to December 23, soak up the festive magic at the Joliette Christmas Market. In addition to its illuminated decorations and entertainment, such as Santa’s parade, this event provides an opportunity to discover the craftsmanship of some thirty local artisans and local producers. It’s the perfect opportunity to fill your basket with unique gifts and 100% local treats!
And remember, reaching new heights of wellness is always an option in Lanaudière, no matter the season. The proof? La Source Bains Nordiques, a stunning Scandinavian spa carved right into the mountain in Rawdon. Treat yourself to a complete relaxation break in this idyllic setting, enjoy the benefits of thermotherapy, pampering treatments and massages, serene rest areas with views of the snow-covered landscape, and a bistro highlighting local products… an unforgettable experience that will recharge you for your next adventures.
Winter Outdoor Paradises Brought to You by Lanaudière…
Shall we put on the tuque and get down to business? Lanaudière has no shortage of ideas or destinations for us to embrace the snow-covered season. Head north into the region’s mountainous and forested areas, where adventurers are greeted by nature’s vast playground: welcome to the Matawinie Regional County Municipality (RCM)! The area is notably known for its network of regional parks, unique in Quebec.
In winter, these protected natural gems become the perfect backdrop for a wide range of activities. In the Parc régional de la Forêt Ouareau (Forêt-Ouareau Regional Park), spanning over 150 km2, you can enjoy cross-country skiing, Nordic skiing, Hok skiing, and snowshoeing on dozens of kilometers of dedicated trails. Long-distance Nordic hikers can take advantage of the park’s cozy shelters, while families looking for fun can enjoy a large snow tubing hill in the Massif sector. The very first mountain ski site in Lanaudière is currently under development, in the Grande-Ourse sector, with two intermediate glade runs in the works. You can also enjoy snowshoeing or Nordic walking on the trails of the Parc régional des Sept-Chutes and the Parc régional de la Chute-à-Bull, with spectacular views and the unique spectacle of frozen waterfalls. Matawinie is also renowned for its snowmobiling trails. Equipment rental, snowmobile clubs, rest stops, and outfitters (more on that later) cater to all desires, from beginner outings to multi-day expeditions. Keep in mind that the Lanaudière-Mauricie region offers over 4,800 km of trails for snowmobile enthusiasts seeking the thrill of the ride. Prefer a little less engine but just as much excitement? The Super Glissades Saint-Jean-de-Matha are another must-visit in the Matawinie RCM: 23 trails, sliding vehicles each crazier than the last, and over 40 km of snowshoeing trails. We love it!
Equally irresistible is the call of Mont-Tremblant National Park—a true giant with 1,510 km² of untouched nature, 400 lakes, and 6 rivers! Accessible from Saint-Côme and Saint-Donat, this area is a paradise for snowshoeing, including the 25 km of trails like the Envol, which leads to the spectacular Chutes-aux-Rats. Cross-country skiing, Nordic skiing and fat biking are all on the agenda here, along with accommodations in shelters, Nature chalets, or Compact cottages, for an unforgettable close encounter with winter!
Places Where You Can Literally Dwell in Winter and Fill Your Days with Adventure
If you love nature and adventure, the warmth of wood, and the authentic hospitality that Quebec is known for, you immediately think of “outfitters.” That’s why the Lanaudière Outfitters Association is an endless source of inspiration for planning your winter getaway. More than twenty outfitters in the region offer accommodations in their cozy lodges or in a rented cottage. Best of all, these outfitters, always situated in the heart of vast natural territories, are the ultimate gateway to experience a variety of outdoor activities. Ice fishing comes to mind, of course, as these places are incomparable year-round destinations for anglers. You can catch the freshest fish imaginable, either on the ice or sheltered in a hut, at Kan-à-Mouche Outfitter, Pourvoirie Saint-Zénon Outfitter and Pourvoirie Lac Croche Outfitter, among others. The outfitters of Lanaudière are also snowmobiling experts, combining immediate access to trails with snowmobile rentals, tailored packages, accommodations, dining, and the warm atmosphere of a lodge. Pourvoirie au Pays de Réal Massé Outfitter, Pourvoirie Lac du Repos Outfitter and Pourvoirie Trudeau Outfitter are great examples of this. What about dog sledding? Head to Pourvoirie Pignon Rouge Mokocan Outfitter. For snowshoeing and backcountry skiing, we love Pourvoirie Roger Gladu and the Centre du Pourvoyeur Mastigouche, among many others. Ice skating, tubing, wildlife observation, ATVs or quads… winter vacations promise to be action-packed when you stay at an outfitter. You’ll also find delightful moments waiting for you by the fire, at the bar, or at the dining table, enjoying comforting meals prepared by your host. It’s the perfect atmosphere to warm up winter with family or friends, all within 90 minutes of Montreal!
In fact, we have a real gem to share: Domaine Bazinet Outfitter located in Sainte-Émélie-de-l’Énergie. Quite simply, we love everything about this cozy mountain lodge, from its rooms to its 21 fully equipped chalets, and the restaurant featuring a chef inspired by Lanaudière’s local products, not to mention its copious activity menu (ice fishing, skating, tubing, snowshoeing, wildlife observation, snowmobiling…).
Another highly regarded Lanaudière spot that beautifully combines winter’s great outdoors, all-around adventure and inner warmth? Located in Saint-Michel-des-Saints by a stunning lake, Auberge du Lac Taureau has everything needed to reconcile even the chilliest guests with the delights of winter, starting with its activity offerings. Guided snowmobile outings, dog sledding experiences, fat biking through the forest on marked trails, free snowshoeing on 23 km of trails around Lac Taureau, ice fishing on a frozen pond, cross-country skiing, ice skating and hockey, tubing, and snow scooters for a different kind of getaway—it’s all here! The Auberge du Lac Taureau is equally unbeatable when it comes to relaxation after a day of adventure. For sleeping, 100 cozy rooms in the inn offer views of the lake, pond, or forest. You can also stay in a Coolbox tucked in the woods, book a spacious condo, or opt for a high-end chalet by the water for more privacy. A renowned restaurant, a welcoming bistro, a thermal spa, saunas, massages, and treatments round out this stunning picture perfectly.
In Mauricie Too, a Winter Getaway at a Lodge Is the Perfect Antidote to Boredom!
In the beautiful neighbouring region of Mauricie, everything is set for you to enjoy the best of Québec’s winter, alternating between outdoor thrills and indoor comforts. The Mauricie Outfitters Association is our top choice for finding the perfect spot, whether you’re traveling with family, as a couple, or with friends, as the variety of landscapes, accommodations, and activities is practically limitless. In Mauricie, about ten lodges stand out for their winter packages. We love Auberge du Lac à l’Eau Claire for its range of lodging options in the inn, pavilions, condos, or chalets, as well as for its gourmet dining and comprehensive activity menu, which includes all the classics (snowmobiling, dog sledding, skating, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing). At Pourvoirie Club Hosanna Outfitters, ice fishing is also on the itinerary, along with exciting day-long snowmobile rides across a territory made for adventure. And the charm of the log cabins leaves no one indifferent. For lovers of snowy forests and frozen lakes, we recommend Pourvoirie du Lac Blanc, where you can enjoy, among other things, real snowshoe expeditions with a trapper guide, learn survival skills in the forest, savour your fresh ice-fishing catch right on the lake, and even take a helicopter tour of the area! For its prestigious historical character, range of accommodations and exclusive experiences, La Seigneurie du Triton remains a sure bet. In winter, the Triton snow lodge offers guests a magical stay in a protected area: snowshoeing and off-trail snowmobiling in a pristine natural setting, stargazing by the campfire, enjoying meals prepared just for you by the chef, discovering local delicacies, and experiencing the simple comforts of Le Batiscan lodge, which exudes the atmosphere of an old club house… A dream come true, right?
A Majestic National Park and the Best Trails to Enjoy It
Naturally, when you think of Mauricie, you think of La Mauricie National Park. With its 536 km² of carefully preserved wilderness, protected for over half a century by Parks Canada, this vast forested area dotted with about 150 lakes becomes an unparalleled winter playground. Winter hiking enthusiasts are on cloud nine, with eight beautiful marked trails spanning over 54 km. Cross-country skiing fans, you’ll find a groomed network of 80 km waiting for you! The starting point for both these networks, the Rivière-à-la-Pêche service pavilion, is also the perfect place to warm up, rent snowshoes, or other hiking gear. It’s also in this area where the truly adventurous can try winter camping or opt for one of the 13 oTENTik ready-to-camp units. For a longer stay with a group, you can even rent the whole Wabenaki-Andrew Lodge.
Good to know: in the vicinity of La Mauricie National Park, you’ll find some great places to stay, where you can come face-to-face with the immaculate landscape. We’re totally smitten with Le 2800 du Parc in Shawinigan, with its mini-cabins and rustic cottages (for 2 to 5 people), scattered across an authentic site known as “Le Petit Parc.” They also offer units in a renovated barn (up to 6 people) and the Maison Doucet, which can accommodate a group of 15. Le 2800 du Parc restaurant serves breakfast through to dinner in this old barn. The poutine, the burgers, the onion soup to enjoy by the indoor fireplace—everything is perfect after a day moving around outside, for example snowshoeing or cross-country skiing mode, two activities available on-site.
In the same area near La Mauricie National Park, at Saint-Jean-des-Piles, you’ll fall in love with the eco-responsible accommodations offered by Nature Nature. Nestled between mountain and the banks of the Saint-Maurice River, their micro-refuges, eco-refuges, chalets, and minimalist waterfront lofts are ideal for a true escape. In winter, you can also enjoy a delightful relaxation area with spa and sauna, after soaking up winter nature by hiking in the forest or sliding down the mountain slopes on tubes available free of charge on-site. Bring on winter in Lanaudière-Mauricie!
