Quebec City: Sunset Ice Canoe Experience with Sauna

Imagine gliding across the frozen surface of the St. Lawrence River on a handcrafted ice canoe at sunset, with the golden light casting a glow on the winter landscape. This 2-hour adventure, offered at $155 per person, combines thrilling outdoor activity with the chance to learn about a unique part of Quebec’s maritime history. Led by passionate guides, you’ll don specialized gear, learn basic paddling and crampon techniques, and enjoy breathtaking views that only winter can showcase. Afterward, you can unwind in a luxury Nordic sauna with panoramic river vistas, a perfect wind-down after your icy excursion.

Two highlights stand out. First, the experience itself is a rare opportunity to try ice canoeing, a sport with deep roots in Quebec’s past, but still thrilling for first-timers. Second, the hot chocolate and pastries served during your break offer a cozy contrast to the cold, elevating the experience into something memorable. However, be aware that suitable weather conditions are essential, and the tour requires a moderate level of physical ability. This tour is ideal for travelers who love a mix of adventure, history, and culture, as well as those looking for a unique story to share back home.

Key Points

Unique activity: Try ice canoeing—an activity rooted in Quebec’s history—in a safe, guided setting.
Stunning scenery: Experience golden sunset views on the frozen river, perfect for photos.
All-inclusive comfort: Neoprene gear, safety equipment, hot chocolate, pastries, and digital photos are included.
Small group intimacy: Limited to nine participants, offering a personalized experience.
Flexible scheduling: Usually available in the late afternoon or evening, adaptable to weather conditions.
Relaxing finish: Unwind in a panoramic Nordic sauna, warming up after the cold adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Sunset Ice Canoe Experience in Quebec City

Quebec City’s Sunset Ice Canoe Experience offers more than just an adrenaline rush—it provides a chance to connect with a distinctive local tradition amid stunning winter scenery. At $155, the tour is priced reasonably for the value of the experience, especially considering the inclusions like expert guidance, safety gear, hot drinks, and the sauna session. It’s designed for those who are curious, physically capable of moderate activity, and eager to see the river in a way most travelers never do.

For broader city exploration in Quebec City, we've covered these other tours

Journey to the Ice

The adventure kicks off about 15 minutes from downtown Quebec City, at a ramp behind the Tennis Montcalm club. The meeting spot is clearly marked with “Canot à glace expérience” signage, making it straightforward to find. We appreciated that the tour offers the option to reserve and pay later—helpful for flexible travel plans. You’ll want to arrive on time, as the activity begins promptly with a warm welcome from your guide, who then provides a thorough briefing on ice canoeing history, safety measures, and basic paddling techniques.

The guides are clearly passionate and knowledgeable, sharing insights about the sport’s roots in Quebec’s maritime past. They also explain what to expect during the activity—advice that reassures first-timers. Since each route is adapted to weather and tide conditions, no two trips are exactly the same, adding an element of unpredictability and adventure.

The Ice Canoe Experience

Once suited up in neoprene socks, boots, leg protectors, life jackets, and fitted mittens, you’re ready to hit the ice. The activity involves paddling on a handcrafted canoe, and the guides will introduce you to crampons—or ice scooters—that provide grip on the slick surface. We loved how the guides balanced safety with fun, encouraging participants to try both paddling and scooting, which keeps the activity dynamic and engaging.

The route usually includes a mid-way stop on the ice, where you can walk around, sip hot chocolate, and take selfies. The hot chocolate is served in cozy cups, with pastries to nibble—perfect for warming up and regrouping. As one reviewer said, “It was amazing! A real experience, it was unique,” capturing the sense of novelty and authenticity the tour offers.

Breathtaking Views and Photo Opportunities

What makes this experience stand out is the scenery. As the sun sets, the golden light bathes the river and ice, creating a luminous backdrop for photographs. We loved the way the river’s vastness and the ice formations provided a sense of scale and wonder. The small groups mean you’ll get plenty of time to soak it all in and snap photos without feeling rushed.

More Great Tours Nearby

Winding Down in the Sauna

After returning to the shore, your adventure continues with a visit to the Nordic sauna—a highlight for many travelers. The sauna’s panoramic windows provide views of the river, so you can relax while still enjoying the scenic surroundings. The warm, soothing heat is a welcome contrast after the cold, and it’s an ideal way to unwind and reflect on your experience.

While you're exploring Quebec City, here are other experiences we've looked into

Value and Practical Considerations

At $155, the price includes not only the ice canoeing and sauna, but also professional guiding, all necessary gear, digital photos and videos, hot chocolate, and pastries. This makes it a good value, especially considering the unique nature of the activity and the quality of the facilities. The small-group setting (up to nine participants) ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

However, keep in mind that the tour is weather dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable—say, if it’s too warm or stormy—the activity will be rescheduled or refunded, which is reassuring. Also, the physical aspect, requiring moderate activity, means it’s best suited for those in decent health and with some mobility.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers eager to try a sport with deep local roots, nature lovers who appreciate scenic winter landscapes, and history buffs interested in Quebec’s maritime traditions. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy small-group tours and value a combination of outdoor activity and relaxation. Travelers with children over 12, or those with mobility issues, should consider their physical comfort and the activity’s requirements.

FAQs about the Sunset Ice Canoe Experience in Quebec City

Is this activity suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is designed to be accessible for first-timers. The guides provide safety and technical training before you go out on the water.

How cold will it be?
You’ll be outdoors on the river in winter, so dress warmly with multiple layers, including technical long sleeves, a winter jacket, and accessories like a beanie or buff. The activity involves exposure to cold, but gear and the sauna help keep you comfortable.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the ice canoeing tour, guide, safety gear, neoprene socks and boots, crampons, leg protectors, life jackets, mittens, hot chocolate, pastries, and digital photos/videos.

Can I participate if I have no outdoor experience?
Absolutely. The tour is beginner-friendly, with guidance on techniques and safety, so you don’t need prior experience.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, children under 12 are not allowed. The activity is suited for teenagers and adults capable of moderate physical activity.

What should I bring?
Bring change of clothes, weather-appropriate gear, a pair of extra warm socks, and possibly a towel and bathing suit if you plan to enjoy the sauna afterward. Sunglasses are optional.

Is transportation included?
No, there is no hotel pickup or drop-off. You need to reach the meeting point at Anse-au-Foulon ramp yourself.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If conditions are not safe or the minimum number of participants isn’t met (2), you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Quebec City Sunset Ice Canoe Experience offers a memorable blend of adventure, culture, and scenery that’s hard to match. For those willing to brave the cold, it’s an opportunity to paddle through history on a river shimmering in sunset light, then relax in warmth with views that make every photo worth sharing. It’s an activity best suited for travelers looking for something active and authentic, with a touch of luxury at the end.

Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or simply eager to try something new, this experience gives you a story to tell long after the snow melts. The knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and thoughtful touches like hot chocolate and a sauna make it well worth considering for your Quebec adventure.

In summary, this tour combines unique historical significance, spectacular scenery, and a fun, active challenge into one package. It’s perfect if you want to experience Quebec’s winter landscape in a way that’s both fun and meaningful. Keep in mind the weather dependence and physical requirements, but if those align, this could be one of your most memorable moments in Quebec City.