Snow Goer December 2026 | Page 16

GASPÉSIE, CÔTE-NORD, AND BAS-SAINT-LAURENT

Where Mountains Meet the St. Lawrence

These regions showcase a different side of Québec, where the St. Lawrence River becomes a defining feature of the landscape and mountains rise above snow-covered forests. The scenery changes with the route, offering opportunities to ride through wooded interior terrain, explore mountainous country, and catch expansive views across the river and surrounding coastline. Here you’ ll find 3,700 miles of well marked and groomed snowmobile trails that take you to incredible scenery, spectacular snowmobile bridges, and iconic landmarks such as Percé Rock and the Chic-Chocs. Riders can access Eastern Québec directly from Maine via trails # 544 and # 561.
Bas-Saint-Laurent offers a gateway to the south shore of the St. Lawrence, where communities and regional trails provide a starting point for winter exploration. Farther east, the Gaspé Peninsula brings together dramatic coastal geography and rugged interior landscapes. Its mountains and broad wilderness areas create a distinctive setting for snowmobiling, with scenery that can be every bit as memorable as the ride itself.
Côte-Nord adds another dimension to the adventure, with vast stretches of territory along the river and a strong sense of northern space. For riders seeking a trip that feels removed from the ordinary, the region offers a compelling reason to keep exploring.
These destinations are especially rewarding for riders who enjoy making the scenery part of their itinerary. Build in time for photo stops, take advantage of local accommodations, and resist
GASPÉSIE © TOURISME GASPÉSIE / R. ST-LAURENT
the urge to rush from one destination to the next.
In this part of Québec, the landscape does much of the talking. All you have to do is follow the trail.
LANAUDIÈRE AND MAURICIE

Wilderness Within Reach

A memorable snowmobile getaway doesn’ t always require a week off work or a complicated expedition. Lanaudière and Mauricie offer the chance to escape into Québec’ s winter landscapes while remaining within reach of major population centers, including Montréal and Québec City. With 2,400 miles of snowmobile trails, there is something for everyone here.
These neighboring regions combine forested riding terrain with communities that make convenient bases for a weekend away or a longer touring itinerary. Riders can spend their days exploring the trail network and their evenings relaxing somewhere with a little more character than a roadside motel. From cozy inns and rustic lodges to other distinctive accommodations, the overnight experience can be part of the adventure.
LANAUDIÈRE © LANAUDIÈRE-MAURICIE | SNOWMOBILE COUNTRY / S. LAROCHE
Lanaudière is an appealing option for riders looking to head north from the Montréal area and trade urban congestion for snow-covered forests and winding trails. Mauricie offers its own mix of wooded landscapes, waterways, and welcoming communities, providing plenty of reasons to slow down and enjoy the scenery between destinations.
The beauty of these regions is their versatility. Experienced riders can use them as jumping-off points for longer journeys, while those planning a shorter getaway can build a trip around a comfortable home base and daily rides. Groups with different priorities can also find room to balance trail time with dining, relaxation, and other winter activities. The wide selection of accommodations, restaurants, and warm-up stops directly accessible from the trails make this area perfect for snowmobilers planning multiday trips.
For riders who want a genuine Québec snowmobile experience without venturing deep into the north, Lanaudière and Mauricie deliver an inviting combination of accessibility, scenery, and hospitality.
LANAUDIÈRE © LANAUDIÈRE-MAURICIE | SNOWMOBILE COUNTRY / J. VIGNEUX
MAURICIE © LANAUDIÈRE-MAURICIE | SNOWMOBILE COUNTRY / O. CROTEAU
16 DECEMBER 2026 | SNOWGOER. COM