The Quebec snowmobile trail system is like no other with over 20,000 miles (30,000 km) of interconnected groomed trails; it’s the largest of its kind in the world. With world-renowned regions such as the Gaspe peninsula or Lac St. Jean, there are a vast variety of landscapes to absorb. Trails are groomed daily by hundreds of local clubs under the Fédération des Clubs de Motoneigistes du Québec (FCMQ), and they are well-marked with route numbers, signage, and maps. Snowmobiling is truly built into the lifestyle and economy of Quebec, and the unique infrastructure of the trail system, including suspension bridges and ferry boats, allows for continuous adventure without interruption.

We love coming to Quebec year after year not only for the spectacular riding, but also for the most gracious and accommodating hospitality. The warmth in which we are welcomed into off-grid outfitters and small inns is nothing short of remarkable, and really makes a great day of riding even more memorable.

Typically breakfast starts between 7 am and 8 am, depending on the lodge. We aim to get on the trails on the early side so that we have plenty of daylight to get to our destination. We may take a few small breaks trailside through the morning and arrive at a relais for lunch. On trips with more aggressive riding and more mileage, we may opt for a gas station lunch to keep it short and sweet. There will be a planned gas stop during the day and another small break or two in the afternoon for photo opportunities. It is not uncommon for us to ride when it’s dark, so please be prepared to be outside for 8+ hours per day. Our goal is to arrive at the destination by 5 pm if all goes according to plan. You will check into your room, have time to relax or shower, and then meet for drinks and group dinner.

Packing your clothing and gear on the sled to ride to a new destination each night is an exciting experience and fosters an authentic sense of adventure. We find this is the best way to explore different regions and maximize your experience by visiting different lodges.

Your storage bag must be durable for various weather conditions. Snowmobile saddlebags, a backpack, or small duffel bag are acceptable. All inside contents must be sealed in air-tight plastic bags, such as dry bags or large ziploc bags so that items don’t get wet and freeze. Saddlebags may be secured to the sled with bungees, ratchet straps, or tie downs.

What to pack in your saddlebag (link)

Each guide will have an In Reach Garmin communicator and satellite phone for use in emergency situations. The In Reach also allows each tour to be tracked by Sylvie, who monitors the status of the groups and ensures that we arrive to our destination safely. Guides will carry tow straps, bungees, tool kits, and first aid kits. You are welcome to bring your own equipment in addition, but each guide is well prepared for a variety of situations.

We use inns and hotels that are not located in “hotspots” of theft. Many offer camera surveillance and a locked pen to put your sled. We have carefully picked our starting destinations and these places take many precautions against theft, which is why they have become our trusted spots.

You are required to have a Quebec snowmobile trail permit and a left-hand mirror on your sled. If you are renting a sled, the trail permit is automatically included in the rental. Otherwise, you can visit https://fcmq.qc.ca/en/trail-permit/line-trail-permits/ to obtain your permit.

Instructions for buying a trail permit (link)

The permit for Quebec trails includes liability insurance that protects others in the event of damages that you cause. It does not protect you and your sled from damage caused by you. Your sled should be insured by you for collision and comprehensive at a minimum.

Modified exhaust is illegal in Canada, do not bring a sled with a modified exhaust system.

Important documents to bring with you include: vehicle, sled, and trailer registrations and insurance. Passport and photocopy of passport.

1. Gasoline for your snowmobile
2. Trail permit
3. Lunch
4. Alcohol and soft drinks
5. Personal expenses

We create groups of 6-8 similarly skilled riders per one guide. Sometimes the itinerary will be set for the day, sometimes there is a choice of route where we take customer opinions into account. Our trips are interactive processes whereby we value guest feedback, and we are happy to accommodate requests for more miles, etc, as long we can do so safely and reasonably.

Our guides are professionals who take their craft seriously.  They help to create a very memorable experience for you. Tipping is appropriate. Consider a range of $100 – $150 per person. If you are on the Gaspe, please consider the support vehicle driver as well, as they transport your luggage throughout the trip. Please exclude from consideration the owner of the company if he is your guide.

We’ll lay the facts on the table – 70% of our business is repeat or referral. 6 of our guides started as customers and loved coming back so much that they wanted to be a part of the company. Each person on our team has a passion for snowmobiling and wouldn’t be anywhere else for the winter months.

We want to share our hidden gems and tried-and-true favorites with you, whether you’re chasing powder in the Gaspe Peninsula or carving it up on the Big Bore. We value safety and responsibility, as each guide has completed a Wilderness First Aid course and the official Quebec Guiding Course. We continue to learn and grow each year and are responsive to guest feedback to ensure your trip exceeds your expectations.

Please keep a lookout for periodic emails that will outline:

• Guide to Packing
• Pre-Trip Vehicle and Sled Service Suggestions
• Trail Rules and Tour Structure
• Tips for Your Upcoming Snowmobile Trip