Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean: the Snowmobilers’ Paradise!

Published on November 23, 2022
Motoneigistes dans un sentier montagneux au Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean
Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, Laurent Silvani

With mountains covered in abundant snow and well-maintained trails totalling 3,800 kilometres, it's no wonder that Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean is known as the Snowmobilers’ Paradise! Thanks to its variety of complementary attractions such as accommodations for all tastes, a distinctive gastronomy, enchanting landscapes and numerous services to complete your stay, the region is the ideal destination for a memorable snowmobile trip. Discover the different sectors which present a diversity of landscapes, attractions and circuits specific to each one:

Lac-Saint-Jean : An Ice Desert

In winter, Lac Saint-Jean becomes a real magnet for the eye with its infinite white. This icy body of water offers landscapes out of the ordinary. Stroll along the trails surrounding it by taking the Tour du Lac Omer-Harvey circuit and discover the diversity and warm welcome of the inhabitants of its many lakeside municipalities. Snowmobile enthusiasts will be delighted to discover unique circuits such as La Passerelle du 49e. With a length of 236 kilometres and seven footbridges, you can safely cross the mythical rivers north of Lac Saint-Jean, where snow conditions are among the most constant in Quebec. 

Along the way, on the unique territory of the Laurentian Wildlife Reserve, make sure to pass by Mont-Apica, which has undergone a rejuvenation cure in recent years. A stop is well worth it, especially for its observatory positioned at an altitude of 884 metres, offering a breathtaking view of snow-covered mountains as far as the eye can see. The region also has a wide variety of unique relays.

Saguenay Fjord : Between Mountains and Viewpoints

The Saguenay Fjord is majestic all year round. In winter, its landscapes change, but the panorama remains just as impressive with its steep cliffs plunging into icy waters, its summits swept by wind and snow in great quantity. Punctuated by picturesque villages, everything is there to enjoy a varied and quality offer both in terms of accommodation and activities. Take advantage of your snowmobile trip to visit the ice fishing villages of La Baie, L'Anse-Saint-Jean and Sainte-Rose-du-Nord. 

The most daring will opt for the Route du Fjord circuit, which totals 521 kilometres and covers the north and south shores of the Saguenay River. The route is mountainous and along the way, you will have access to exceptional viewpoints. To cross the river in Tadoussac, you take the ferry. A unique experience for sure! Then, on the north shore, you will be close to the Monts-Valin. The most popular sector of the region for snowmobilers. Take advantage of this opportunity to ride the circuit Les Sommets du Fjord. With its international status, it is safer thanks to wider and less pronounced curves as well as less steep slopes.

Monts-Valin : Snow in Abundance

The Monts-Valin sector is without a doubt the dream place for snowmobilers. They arrive as soon as the first snowstorm drops and are present until spring. The trails are exceptional, the snow cover is constant, the services and lodging are numerous, in short everything is there! In addition, several hotels in the region offer packages specifically for snowmobilers who wish to explore this mythical area while finding comfort at the end of the day. All this is orchestrated by offering a shuttle service to the beginning of the circuits or thanks to their prime location near the trails. 

A circuit not to be missed is certainly the Sommets des Monts-Valin which crosses the Monts-Valin massif between 5 peaks of more than 770 metres in altitude, all offering a magnificent view of the region, and especially the Saguenay Fjord. In some places, it is possible to see the wind turbines of the Parc des Laurentides, Lake Saint-Jean and the city of Saguenay.

Rental and Customized Packages

Snowmobiling is part of the DNA of the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region. It is for this reason that its offer is known to be well structured. On one hand, people who own their own recreational vehicle can easily find accommodations that offer customized packages with meals and overnight stays. These companies will also ensure that equipment such as trailers are safely stored for the duration of the stay. On the other hand, there are companies that offer equipment rentals and even guide services. Other companies specialize in the creation of customized stays. The possibilities are as endless as there are snowmobile trips! Simply contact the different companies according to the sector you wish to visit or the services you are looking for. 

See why Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean is a Snowmobiler’s Paradise

Chalet dans les montagnes du Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean en hiver
0:30
Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean: The Snowmobile Experience
Watch

You will certainly be charmed by the beauty of the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region, as well as by the warm welcome you will receive. Your experience will be complete thanks to the many services offered, the varied activities and the different styles of cozy accommodations. For more information, visit snowmobilersparadise.com and don't forget to order your regional snowmobile map to plan your visit! 

 

You'll Also Like

  • Family in a kid's playground in Old Québec
    Switching to Slow Travel Mode in Québec City
    Read
  • A couple walk on the Pierre-Dugua-De Mons terrace near Avenue Saint-Denis, looking at the Château Frontenac.
    10 Best Things to Do in Old Québec City
    Read
  • Site Traditionnel Huron Onhoüa Chetek8e
    The Best Experiences to Discover the Indigenous Culture
    Read
  • A cyclist rides on a bike path in the Old Port of Québec with the Château Frontenac in the background.
    Québec City Bike Paths
    Read
  • Fortifications of Québec
    How to Spend a Sustainable Weekend in Québec City
    Read
  • Couple sur un belvédère lors d'une randonnée
    Summer and Fall Ecotourism Activities and Excursions in Québec City
    Read
  • Boutique Martino
    15 Unique Destinations for a Buy-Local Experience
    Read