The Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean is the snowmobile paradise destination in Quebec, a larger-than-life playground with more than 3,800 km of groomed trails. We can say that it is part of its DNA, thanks to its exceptional snow cover, which in the mountains starts earlier and ends later, as well as its thick white carpet (up to six meters of snow received on average per year in certain sectors). In both the Saguenay and Lac-Saint-Jean regions, tours have also contributed to the popularity of the region, many of which have become must-sees. See why Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean is a snowmobile paradise.
Lac-Saint-Jean, a veritable desert of ice
In winter, this stretch of water is transformed into a unique canvas on a white background as far as the eye can see. In Roberval, you can visit the Village on Ice, where more than 200 houses are installed in a festive atmosphere every winter. This year, the program will be all adapted to the situation. On site, enjoy an impressive view of the lake’s endless icy surface before heading out on your quest around Lac Saint-Jean. A popular tour with a multitude of services offered in the surrounding towns and villages.
Mount Apica Observatory
We set out to conquer the mountainous and very snowy trails on the unique territory of the Laurentian Wildlife Reserve. We make sure to stop at the Mont-Apica lookout, erected at an altitude of more than 884 meters, offering a panoramic view of the snow-covered mountains as far as the eye can see.
The seven walkways of the 49th Circuit La Passerelle
One of the region’s most recent tours, which has been accessible for several seasons now, is located north of Lac Saint-Jean. Discovering the Passerelle du 49e is like travelling through the region in an area where the amount of snow is among the most constant in Quebec. In the heart of the boreal forest, the 236 km long trails follow seven suspended structures, some of which are particularly breathtaking, that span large mythical rivers.
The legendary Massif des Monts-Valin
The Monts-Valin sector is without a doubt the dream place for snowmobilers who flock there as soon as the first snowflakes appear. The multitude of trails, the abundant snow and the magnificent landscapes have made its reputation beyond our borders. A tour not to be missed is the Sommets du Fjord-du-Saguenay, which criss-crosses the Monts-Valin massif between five peaks at an altitude of more than 770 meters, offering exceptional and unique viewpoints.
The atmosphere of the ice fishing villages
Inside the Baie des Ha! Ha! when the thickness of the ice on the Saguenay River allows it, magnificent little white fishing huts of all colors take possession of the frozen surface for the pleasure of all. These villages offer a very colorful panorama and are accessible by snowmobile. The nearby circuits will allow you to discover the vast expanses of forest in our territory while enjoying the ice fishing villages near the urban center.
The majestic Saguenay Fjord
Majestic all year long, in winter the panorama is still as exceptional with its steep cliffs, shaped by the glaciers, swept by the winds and the snow. For an adventure that will take you to exceptional viewpoints, follow the trails of the Route du Fjord, which are dotted with the charming villages of L’Anse-Saint-Jean, Petit-Saguenay, Rivière-Éternité and Saint-Rose-du-Nord.
Optimal planning is the key to a successful stay
For several years now, Tourisme Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean has offered a snowmobile trail map of the region that is updated annually. Before your stay, you can order the map for free at paradisdelamotoneige.com. On the site, you will also find information on the circuits presented above, the trail conditions and all the useful information for your preparation. Then, for more specific information, on site or before your departure, a new tourist information service dedicated to snowmobiling in the region has been set up in 2019. Contact 1 833 59NEIGE (1 833 596-3443) or write to infomotoneige@tourismesaglac.net
You will surely be charmed by the beauty of the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region as well as by the warm welcome you will receive. The variety of complementary attractions, the choice of lodging for all tastes, the distinctive gastronomy, the enchanting landscapes and the numerous services will make your stay an unforgettable experience. Before you travel, be sure to contact the businesses you plan to visit to make sure they are open. Winter awaits you at paradisdelamotoneige.com.
Photos: Fabrice Tremblay et Canopée Médias
