If you’re planning a cold-weather getaway and you’re searching for the best things to do in Quebec in winter, you’re in the right place. Winter here isn’t just a season, it’s a full-on experience. Think frozen lakes, snow-covered forests, and that crisp northern air that wakes you up better than any espresso.
And if you’ve always dreamed of discovering a real Canadian winter (the kind where temperatures dip well below 5°F ) this guide will walk you through the very best things to do in Quebec in winter, from ice fishing and dogsledding to forest skating trails, domes under the stars, and deep-snow adventures in Lanaudière and Mauricie.
1. Ice Fishing: A True Quebec Winter Tradition
Ice fishing is one of the most iconic winter activities in Quebec. Imagine spending the day inside a heated cabin sitting right on a frozen lake, drilling a hole in the ice, and trying your luck at catching walleye, perch, or northern pike.
Between January and March, the ice becomes thick enough to safely set up small villages of colorful fishing cabins. It’s a surprisingly cozy experience and a great way to feel like a local for a day.
Where to try ice fishing in Quebec ?
- Auberge du Lac-à-l’Eau-Claire offers a peaceful and traditional ice-fishing experience surrounded by untouched wilderness.
- Auberge du Lac Taureau is a classic for travelers looking for a full winter getaway with many activities included.
- Pourvoirie Domaine Bazinet, one of Quebec’s most reputable outfitters, specializes in traditional techniques and provides a more intimate, authentic atmosphere.
- La Pourvoirie du Lac Blanc is another exceptional place to experience ice fishing. You’ll find a large frozen lake, heated fishing cabins, all the gear you need, and that warm, welcoming atmosphere typical of outfitters in the Mauricie region.
Pro tip: Ice-fishing packages sell out fast on weekends in January and February. Dress warmly and bring snacks — time goes by differently when you’re sitting on the ice.
2. Snowshoeing, Winter Hiking & Cross-Country Skiing: Explore the Winter Forest
There’s something almost meditative about walking or skiing through a silent snow-covered forest. Quebec has hundreds of miles of marked trails, weaving through boreal forests, frozen lakes, and mountain viewpoints.
Snowshoeing is accessible to everyone and lets you venture deeper into quiet areas. Cross-country skiing is a favorite winter workout for locals, offering long glides through pristine landscapes.
Best parks for winter hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing
- Forêt Ouareau Regional Park is a vast natural playground with countless snowy trails.
- La Mauricie National Park offers beautifully maintained routes through pure Canadian wilderness.
- Chute-à-Bull Regional Park combines a scenic winter hike with a frozen waterfall.
- Sept-Chutes Regional Park winds through pine forests and icy cascades.
- Lac Taureau Regional Park, with trails starting right from Auberge du Lac Taureau.
- Parc national du Mont-Tremblant, the oldest national park in Québec offers dozens of kilometres of trails for all kinds of winter hikes, revealing stunning viewpoints along the way!
3. Ice Skating on Fairy-Tale Trails and Frozen Lakes
Picture this. You lace up your skates, the cold Quebec air stings your cheeks just enough to remind you you’re alive, and you glide on a winding skating trail carved right into the forest.
In Mauricie, two dreamy spots bring this scene to life. Le Domaine Enchanteur, in Notre-Dame-du-Mont-Carmel, offers a magical skating path that snakes through the forest. A little farther west, Île Saint-Quentin in Trois-Rivières blends river views and peaceful wooded areas, creating a winter atmosphere that feels straight out of a storybook.
And if you head toward Lanaudière, you’ll find a real gem: the natural skating rink on Rawdon Lake. It sits surrounded by mountains and cozy cabins, and on sunny days, the winter light dances across the ice like something you’d see on a postcard.
4. Snowmobiling: The Ultimate Quebec Winter Adventure
Snowmobiling is how Quebecers explore the backcountry in winter. With over 20,000 miles of groomed and well-marked trails, it’s one of the best places in the world to try it.
Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced rider, guided tours let you roam deep into snowy forests and remote areas you’d never reach otherwise.
To book your snowmobile adventure, visit Snowmobile Country, the region’s official hub.
5. Snow Tubing: Fun for Families (and for the Kid in You)
Snow tubing is winter joy in its purest form. You sit on a giant inflatable tube, slide down snowy slopes at full speed… and then laugh your way back up on the lift.
Just an hour from Montréal, the Super Glissades Matha, in Saint-Jean-de-Matha, are famous for steep runs that can hit speeds up to 60 mph. At night, the runs light up and the atmosphere becomes wonderfully festive.
6. Dogsledding: A True Northern Experience
Dogsledding gives you a front-row seat to one of the most beautiful winter experiences in Quebec. As a team of energetic huskies pulls your sled through the snowy forest, all you hear is the soft glide on the powder and the excited breath of the dogs.
Many outfitters offer half-day or full-day excursions, and some even let you drive your own team — an unforgettable thrill.
We’ve put together a full guide to the best places for dogsledding in Quebec.
7. Spend the Night in a Winter Dome Under the Stars
If you’re looking for something romantic or simply unique, try sleeping in a heated transparent dome. Expérience Équinox and Les Versants de la Falaise is one of the top places for this.
You lie in a warm bed while the starry winter sky stretches above you. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the northern lights.
A magical winter memory you won’t forget.
8. Joliette Christmas Market: A Heartwarming Winter Tradition
The Joliette Christmas Market is one of the most charming in Quebec. Wooden kiosks, local artisans, live music, twinkling lights… it’s the perfect place to enjoy holiday spirit the Quebec way.
Taste local specialties, meet passionate creators, and shop unique gifts to bring home.
9. Fat Biking: Ride Through the Snow
Fat bikes, with their extra-wide tires, let you pedal right on packed snow. It’s a fun and surprisingly smooth way to explore winter trails.
The Batiscan River Park is one of the best places to try it, with rentals and groomed paths for all levels.
10. Seaplane or helicopter Flight: See Quebec’s Winter From the Sky
For a truly breathtaking moment, take a winter flight with Hydravion Aventure or a helicopter flight at La Pourvoirie du Lac Blanc. From above, Quebec becomes a vast white canvas dotted with forests, ice-covered lakes, and snowy villages.
Whether you choose a short scenic tour or a longer expedition, this aerial view is one of the most spectacular winter activities in the region.
Plan Your Winter Trip to Quebec
Winter in Quebec is both wild and welcoming. Each activity feels like stepping into a new world, from snowmobiling and dogsledding to stargazing in a dome or skating through the forest.
Dress warmly, check weather conditions before heading out, and aim for December through March, with peak winter magic in January and February.
FAQ: Things to Do in Quebec in Winter
When is the best time to visit Quebec in winter?
The ideal window runs from December to March. By early December, the snow usually settles for good, and winter activities start opening across the province. January and February offer the most reliable conditions, especially in regions like Lanaudière and Mauricie where the forests, lakes, and trails are deeply transformed by the cold.
Where should I go in Quebec in winter?
Quebec has several winter hotspots, each with its own vibe. Quebec City turns into a real-life snow globe, with the Old Town draped in white, the Plains of Abraham perfect for cross-country skiing, and the frozen Montmorency Falls creating a dramatic icy backdrop.
And if you’re visiting during the holidays, the German Christmas Market fills the Old Town with warm drinks, lights, and traditional treats.
Montréal becomes an urban winter playground, from riverfront skating rinks in the Old Port to snowshoeing on Mount Royal and outdoor festivals lighting up the city nights.
Between both major cities lies one of the province’s best-kept secrets: Lanaudière and Mauricie. These two regions are the heart of authentic Quebec winter. You’ll find an immense network of snowmobile trails, stunning regional parks like Forêt Ouareau and the Batiscan River Valley, La Mauricie National Park for world-class snowshoeing and skiing, traditional outfitters offering ice fishing and dogsledding, and unique accommodations like the domes at Expérience Équinox. It’s the perfect balance of wilderness and accessibility, without the crowds.
What can I do in Montréal in winter?
Montréal embraces winter with enthusiasm. You can skate at the Old Port with views of the St. Lawrence River, explore Mount Royal’s snowy trails right in the heart of the city, or enjoy the cozy atmosphere of the skating paths in Parc La Fontaine. For a more festive touch, Igloofest brings music and energy to the waterfront, while Montréal en Lumière lights up the Quartier des spectacles.
What free activities are available in winter?
There are plenty of ways to enjoy Quebec’s winter without spending anything. Many towns maintain free outdoor skating rinks, and snowshoeing is accessible on public regional park trails.
In Quebec City, the Plains of Abraham offer free cross-country ski trails. Natural snow-covered hills become spontaneous sliding spots for families, and winter festivals often include free entertainment and activities. You simply need to check local conditions before heading out.
What is February like in Quebec?
February is the peak of winter and one of the best months to visit if you want the full experience. Snow is abundant, the lakes are solidly frozen, and every winter activity is in top shape. In regions like Lanaudière and Mauricie, this is when snowmobile trails are at their finest, ice fishing is at its most reliable, and the parks offer pristine conditions for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. It’s a cold month, yes,but the landscapes are spectacular.
How cold does it get in Quebec in winter?
Winter temperatures vary depending on the month, but you can expect cold weather throughout the season. December typically ranges from 5°F to 23°F and is perfect for early-season skiing and skating. January and February are the coldest months, often oscillating between −4°F and 14°F, which creates excellent conditions for ice fishing, snowmobiling, and dogsledding. March brings slightly milder temperatures around 14°F to 23°F, offering sunny days that feel more comfortable even though everything remains beautifully snowy. Wind can make temperatures feel colder, so good layering is essential.
Winter in Québec offers a wide range of experiences that leave a lasting impression and warm the heart.
To help you dive even deeper into the discovery and plan a trip that truly reflects your style, we’ve put together several easy-to-follow itineraries—perfect for enjoying Mauricie and Lanaudière in winter.
Here are our suggestions to inspire you:
- 4 days of family fun to experience the joys of winter
- 4 days of outdoor adventure for a true winter getaway
- 4 days of slow-cozy wandering for a gentle, soul-soothing winter escape
