Skiing (Hok Ski) Excursion in Jacques-Cartier National Park

A snowy escape into Quebec’s wilderness, with guided ski-shoeing in Jacques-Cartier

If you’re looking to explore Quebec City’s stunning winter landscape in a way that combines gentle exercise with breathtaking scenery, the Skiing (Hok Ski) Excursion in Jacques-Cartier National Park is a fantastic choice. For roughly four hours, you’ll enjoy a mix of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing—a low-impact, peaceful way to get outside and experience the magic of the Canadian wilderness. Led by knowledgeable guides, this small-group tour offers personalized attention, making it ideal whether you’re a seasoned skier or a first-timer curious about trying ski-shoeing.

Two aspects we particularly appreciate are how the guides focus on teaching proper technique—no one gets left behind—and the cozy lunch with hot chocolate, adding a warm touch to the day. One thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t a downhill ski tour, so if you’re expecting adrenaline-pumping descents, you might want to consider other options. However, this tour suits active travelers who enjoy a moderate challenge, love nature, and want a more intimate, authentic experience in Quebec’s woods.

Key Points

• Balanced activity: Combining cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, great for beginners and intermediate levels alike.
• Personalized attention: Small groups limited to eight people ensure guides can give tailored instruction.
• Scenic immersion: Gorgeous winter vistas of Quebec forests, wildlife sightings, and peaceful snow-covered trails.
• Comfort and value: All necessary equipment, professional guides, and a cozy lunch included for a fair price.
• Weather-dependent: Canceled if snow conditions aren’t suitable, but alternative dates or full refunds are offered.
• Ideal for: Active travelers, families, or anyone wanting a genuine outdoor experience in a less crowded setting.

Exploring the Jacques-Cartier Ski-Shoeing Tour in Depth

Setting the Scene: Quebec’s Winter Wonderland

The tour begins at the Centre Infotouriste de Québec, where your adventure kicks off with a comfortable pickup from Quebec City. You’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle and head toward the vast, snowy expanses of Jacques-Cartier National Park, about a half-hour drive away. The scenery along the way hints at the beauty to come—trees dusted in snow, quiet roads, and maybe a glimpse of wildlife if you’re lucky.

Once inside the park, the real fun begins. You’ll meet your guide, who will equip you with all necessary gear—skis, snowshoes, poles—and give a quick rundown on technique. No matter your skill level, the goal is to help everyone feel confident on the trails, whether you’re gliding smoothly or taking your first tentative steps in snow.

The Itinerary: From Technique to Trails

The tour lasts approximately four hours, including a lunch break and some technical sections to challenge your skills.

• Start with Equipment and Technique: The initial kilometers focus on adjusting your gear and familiarizing yourself with ski-shoeing—the unique blend of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Guides like Levi or Lorenzo have been praised for their patience and knowledge, ensuring everyone gets comfortable and learns proper form.

• Trail to a Refuge: After mastering the basics, you’ll follow your guide onto scenic trails that wind through the forest. The quiet of the snow-covered woods is enchanting, with chances to glimpse local wildlife like deer or moose. The trail leads to a cozy refuge—a perfect spot to rest, stretch, and enjoy a hot beverage.

• Midday Break & Lunch: The included lunch offers a welcome pause, with vegetarian options available. Many reviews mention the warm, cozy atmosphere and delicious food, which adds to the experience. It’s a great chance to chat with your fellow travelers and soak in the scenery.

• Technical Descent & Return: Post-lunch, the group tackles a more technical zone where you’ll learn to navigate rises and descents in a telemark style—an exciting challenge that some reviewers found invigorating. The return journey retraces the trail back to the starting point, offering more opportunities for photos and reflection.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The small-group format (limited to eight travelers) ensures personalized attention. Guides like Lorenzo and Vicky are lauded for their patience, friendliness, and extensive knowledge, making even nervous beginners feel supported. The reviews highlight how well the guides tailor the experience, making it accessible for different fitness levels while still providing a challenge for more athletic guests.

The scenic beauty of Jacques-Cartier Park is undeniable. The snow-blanketed trees, frozen streams, and the occasional animal sighting create a winter wonderland feel you won’t forget. Several reviewers describe the park as “magical” and “like a scene from a storybook,” especially when snow begins to fall during the tour.

What to Expect in Terms of Difficulty and Preparation

While the activity is generally suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, reviews suggest that some participants found the technical parts more demanding—particularly the ascents and descents. However, guides are praised for their patience, helping everyone learn and adapt.

You’ll want to dress warmly in layers, as the winter weather can be brisk. Bring sturdy hiking boots or similar footwear—sneakers or leather boots are fine, but ensure your feet stay dry and warm. The tour provides all necessary equipment, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own gear.

The Value of This Experience

At $118.03 per person, this tour offers quite a bit of value. It includes transportation, gear, an experienced guide, a hearty lunch, hot drinks, and the chance to explore an often-overlooked part of Quebec’s wilderness. Many past travelers feel they received their money’s worth, especially considering the personalized service, scenic beauty, and the opportunity to learn a new winter sport.

The Weather and Cancellation Policy

Because the experience depends on snow conditions, it’s subject to change if weather isn’t cooperative. The tour operates in all weather conditions but can be canceled if snow is insufficient or the weather turns hazardous. In such cases, you’re offered a different date or a full refund. This flexibility is reassuring given Quebec’s unpredictable winter climate.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is perfect for active travelers, families willing to try a new sport, or anyone seeking a peaceful day in the snow. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided instruction, stunning natural scenery, and a cozy meal after outdoor activity. The reviews highlight how guides like Lorenzo and Vicky go above-and-beyond, making even nervous participants feel comfortable.

While not a downhill ski adventure, this tour does involve some technical sections that might challenge those with limited mobility or who prefer flat, easy trails. However, the focus on technique, patience, and small group size makes it accessible overall.

FAQs

Do I need previous skiing or snowshoeing experience?
Not necessarily. The tour begins with equipment fitting and technique instruction, making it suitable for beginners. Past reviews note that guides are patient and helpful in teaching proper form.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layered winter clothing. Waterproof pants and jackets, hats, gloves, and sturdy boots are recommended. The tour does not include winter clothes, so come prepared for cold weather.

Is the activity suitable for children or seniors?
The tour is designed for people with moderate physical fitness. Some reviews mention senior participants and families, but it’s best to assess individual mobility and stamina beforehand.

How long is the drive from Quebec City?
About 30 minutes by vehicle, providing a quick escape from city life into nature’s quiet.

What’s included in the price?
All necessary equipment, transportation, a professional guide, and a hot lunch with vegetarian options. Hot beverages are also provided.

What if the snow isn’t good enough?
The tour operates in all weather, but if snow conditions aren’t suitable, it may be canceled. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. Less than 24 hours notice means no refund.

How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 10 travelers, but most groups are smaller—around eight—allowing for more personalized guidance.

Will I get photos of my experience?
Some guides, like Johann, are noted for taking photos and videos along the way, so you might end up with some memorable snapshots.

Closing thoughts

If you’re seeking a peaceful, scenic, and active day in Quebec’s winter landscape, this Skiing (Hok Ski) Excursion in Jacques-Cartier National Park hits the mark. The combination of guided instruction, stunning forest scenery, and cozy meals makes it a well-rounded experience for those who want to learn something new or simply enjoy the great outdoors. It’s a great choice for families, couples, or solo travelers eager for an authentic taste of Quebec’s winter magic—without the rush of downhill slopes or the crowds.

While it’s not the most adrenaline-packed activity, the charm lies in the tranquility of the snow-covered woods and the warmth of the guides’ expertise. If you’re looking for an authentic, moderately challenging outdoor adventure with a taste of local hospitality, this tour is hard to beat. Just remember to dress warmly, be ready for some technical sections, and enjoy the beauty of Quebec’s winter wilderness.