Snowshoeing is one of the most beautiful ways to enjoy the Québec winter. You don't need to be an athlete: if you can walk, you can snowshoe. Snow-covered forests, peaks, mountain views: here’s where to snowshoe in Montreal and its surroundings, some favorite destinations elsewhere in Québec, and our tips to get started.
Why try snowshoeing this winter?
Snowshoeing is an outdoor sport accessible to all levels. The equipment is simple, the technique can be learned in a few minutes, and the activity can be enjoyed with family, friends, or solo. You move at your own pace, in the calm and tranquility of the forest, enjoying the fresh snow and winter landscapes.
It's also an excellent physical activity: walking in the snow requires more effort than hiking in the summer. In short, it's the perfect outing to get some fresh air, stay fit, and discover nature differently during the cold season.
Where to snowshoe in Montreal
No need to leave the city to strap on your snowshoes. Several parks in Montreal offer snowshoe trails and even equipment rentals on-site.
Parc du Mont-Royal
Right in the heart of the city, just steps from downtown, Mount Royal offers marked snowy trails for snowshoeing. Les Amis de la montagne rent snowshoes from mid-December at the pavillon du Lac-aux-Castors (2000, chemin Remembrance). They also offer guided snowshoe outings from the pavilion (schedule and rates on their website). A great option for a first experience, with the bonus of city views from the lookouts.
Parcs-nature de Montréal
The large nature parks on the island are little paradises for snowshoe enthusiasts:
- Grand parc de l'Ouest – Cap-Saint-Jacques (Pierrefonds): about 5 km of snowshoe trails in the forest and along the water, with snowshoe and cross-country ski rentals at the reception chalet (20099, boulevard Gouin Ouest), managed by GUEPE;
- Bois-de-Liesse and Île-de-la-Visitation: two other nature parks where snowshoeing is part of the winter activities.
Parc Jean-Drapeau and parc Frédéric-Back
At Parc Jean-Drapeau, Patin Patin offers equipment rentals and access to a snowshoe trail. At Parc Frédéric-Back, TOHU lends snowshoes and cross-country skis for free on a first-come, first-served basis.
Note: thanks to the municipal Parc actif program, you can also borrow snowshoes for free in certain parks, skating rinks, and libraries in Montreal. Check the City’s website for details.
Snowshoeing near Montreal: two national parks
Parc national du Mont-Saint-Bruno
A few kilometers from Montreal, on the South Shore, Parc national du Mont-Saint-Bruno (Sépaq) offers snowshoe trails winding through the forest, near its lakes and orchard. Snowshoe rentals are available at the Discovery and Services Center. It's an ideal outing for a half-day with the family. Take the opportunity to discover the Verger du parc national du Mont-Saint-Bruno during your next visit in the fall.
Parc national d'Oka
In the Laurentians, Parc national d'Oka offers a great selection of snowshoe trails for all levels. Some examples of loops, according to Sépaq:
- L'Écureuil: 3.5 km, about 60 minutes;
- La Sauvagine: 6 km, about 2 hours;
- Le Marais: 14 km, about 4 hours, for fit hikers;
- Le Calvaire d'Oka: 4.4 km, about 1.5 hours, with a climb to the summit and a view of Lac des Deux Montagnes. Snowshoe rentals are available at the Le Littoral service center. For Sépaq, a daily access fee applies: check rates on their website.
Snowshoe Trails Farther Afield in Québec: Breathtaking Panoramas
If you're in the mood for an escape, Québec is full of destinations for snowshoeing.
Parc national du Mont-Mégantic, in the Eastern Townships
In the Eastern Townships, Parc national du Mont-Mégantic has about 40 km of snowshoe trails providing access to the summits of Mont Saint-Joseph, Franceville, and Mont Mégantic. The park even offers torch-lit hikes and snowshoe rentals.
Mont Gosford: viewpoints for seasoned snowshoers
Also in the Eastern Townships, Mont Gosford, with its 1,193 meters of altitude and about 40 kilometers of trails dotted with rustic shelters, is a playground for experienced hikers. The Summit Loop (17.4 km, about 600 m elevation gain) is a challenging route, reserved for seasoned snowshoers.
Camp Mercier, near Québec City
In the Laurentides Wildlife Reserve, less than an hour from Québec City, Camp Mercier offers more than 30 km of snowshoe trails, with flat sections for beginners and high-altitude viewpoints for the more experienced.
Parc national du Mont-Tremblant
In the Laurentians, Parc national du Mont-Tremblant is a vast territory of mountains, lakes, and rivers, with snowshoe trails for all levels.
Before you go, always check the snow conditions, the length and elevation of each loop, and the trail map on the official website of each park.
How to snowshoe: tips for beginners
Equipment
- Suitable snowshoes: recent models with crampons underfoot are the most versatile. For a first outing, renting is the best option.
- Warm and waterproof boots: good winter boots are sufficient. Avoid running shoes, which let in cold and moisture.
- Poles: they help maintain balance, especially uphill and downhill.
- Layered clothing: you warm up quickly while walking. A base layer that wicks sweat, a warm layer, and a windproof jacket do the job.
Technique
Walking in snowshoes is very intuitive. Spread your feet a little wider than usual to avoid overlapping the snowshoes. Uphill, press on the front of your foot so the crampons bite into the snow; downhill, keep your weight back and knees slightly bent.
Safety
Inform someone of your itinerary, bring water and a snack, and check the weather before you go: a storm can make trails difficult. Stay on marked trails, avoid cross-country ski tracks, and respect wildlife and flora. Choose a distance suited to your fitness level: better a short successful loop than a too-long route.
Practical information
- Season: usually from December to March or April, depending on snow conditions.
- Snowshoe rentals in Montreal: pavillon du Lac-aux-Castors (Mount Royal), Cap-Saint-Jacques reception chalet, Parc Jean-Drapeau; free loan with Parc actif and at TOHU.
- National parks: Sépaq access fee; rentals on-site in most parks.
- Rates and hours: vary from place to place; check the official website of the chosen park.
Frequently asked questions about snowshoeing
Is it difficult to walk with snowshoes?
No. Snowshoeing is one of the easiest winter sports to learn. Just spread your feet a little and adjust your step. Start with a flat, short trail to get used to it.
Where can you snowshoe for free in Montreal?
At Parc du Mont-Royal and in several city parks, trail access is free. For equipment, the Parc actif program and TOHU (Parc Frédéric-Back) lend snowshoes at no cost.
What shoes should you wear for snowshoeing?
Warm and waterproof winter boots, with good ankle support. Winter hiking boots are ideal.
What is the most beautiful snowshoe trail in Québec?
A matter of taste! Parc national du Mont-Mégantic, Mont Gosford, and Camp Mercier are often mentioned for their viewpoints and abundant snow. Near Montreal, Le Calvaire d'Oka offers a beautiful view for moderate effort.
More winter outing ideas
Want some sliding fun after snowshoeing? Discover the Glissades Gamelin, right downtown. At the top of Mount Royal, take a break at the Chalet du Mont-Royal, and for a luminous winter outing, read our article on Montréal en lumière.
