Six new activities to make the most of winter

Off-piste skiing, ice fishing, fatbiking in the forest, tube sliding: winter activities are more varied and more fun than ever in Quebec. The little extra? They can be practiced in the heart of nature in breathtaking settings dressed in white, in the region as well as near major centers. Lap.

To counter the winter blues, there’s nothing like a day spent moving in the fresh air. Even if you are the chilly type, there is no question of staying locked up at home! The thing ? Wear the right clothes, be well equipped, have nutritious snacks and water or hot chocolate on hand. And, above all, move in good company. Want to try something new? Overview of some new activities offered by Sépaq, from the most extreme to the most zen.

BACKCOUNTRY SKIINGFor thrill seekers
No ski lifts, no artificial snow, no crowds or loud music. In the board sports category, it is THE current trend. How does this unplugged version of the ski work? You first have to climb telemark, ski touring or divisible snowboard, which leaves the heel mobile, or else fix climbing skins under the surface of the skis or boards, which is essential for climb slopes. Cardio effect guaranteed! Once at the top, that’s the reward: we take advantage of the natural setting to breathe a little before hitting the slope in the powder. An always exhilarating moment. In vertical drop, this activity requires good physical shape, training and adequate equipment, which is not the case for off-piste hikes on flat terrain, which will suit beginners. Want to give it a try? The mountain school of Parc national de la Gaspésie, an exceptional site, offers initiation sessions and the services of an experienced guide.

OVERSIZED TIRE BIKE (FATBIKE)To have fun with the family
If you love mountain biking, this exciting sport, which is hugely popular in Quebec, is for you. XXL tires provide ideal traction in the snow, and Sépaq’s specially designed trails are ideal for making the experience pleasant, whether you are a beginner or “steel thigh”. An activity that keeps you warm, to practice everywhere in the province. Please note: most sites offer bicycle rental – free for children under 18.

SLIDINGTo fall back into childhood
A corridor of snow, air chambers racing down at full speed, who could say better? An activity that unites all generations, from toddlers to grandparents. We particularly like the cardio effect during the ascent, which contrasts with the pleasure effect of the descent. Impossible not to smile! An activity to practice everywhere in Quebec, especially after a nice snowfall. Good to know: personal sleds are allowed in the Bic, Mont-Saint-Bruno and Yamaska ​​national parks.

WHITE PEACHTo reconnect with tradition
Practiced for centuries by the Nordic peoples and the First Nations, ice fishing is child’s play. How’s it going ? An attendant prepares the holes with an oversized ice drill, provides the equipment (a rocker, the brimbale, and a baited and weighted fishing line that the children lower into the water), and off we go. tease smelt or speckled trout, catches as vigorous as they are delicious! Ice fishing starts as soon as the ice is very thick and solid, generally from February, in the Grands-Jardins national park, the Portneuf wildlife reserve, the Lac-Simon tourist center and the Duchesnay tourist resort. .

WILDLIFE OBSERVATIONTo treat yourself to a zen break
The photo safari as a winter sport? Why not ! The contrast between the pristine snow and the inhabitants of our forests – foxes, hares, deer, moose, and different bird species – is a guarantee of success. Plus, the absence of leaves helps amateur photographers spot the wildlife they want to capture. An activity to be practiced while hiking, and especially snowshoeing. Wildlife photographer Julie Audet gives us a few tips: wear warm clothes (don’t forget thermal socks) and equip yourself with pouches to warm hands and feet, because shots go hand in hand with moments of stillness. Above all, keep your distance from animals, because many species move at least in winter to preserve their energy. If we get too close, a flight reflex could threaten their survival. It is therefore better to bring a telephoto lens or approach glasses.

EVENING HIKING AND STAR WATCHINGTo experience a moment of wonder
The winter sky is easier to observe with the family for a very simple reason: night falls faster! A large-scale spectacle dominated by the constellation Orion, easy to identify with its hourglass shape surrounded by three closely spaced stars. As it is very close to Earth, we can observe its nebula (a nursery of stars) with simple binoculars. Another fascinating phenomenon: the “great hexagon”, a celestial area grouping together some of the brightest stars, including Sirius. For an unforgettable experience, take part in the winter astronomy evening at the ASTROLab in Mont-Mégantic National Park, which includes a torchlight ride on a marked trail. An activity to be booked in advance.

It’s free for young people!

Mission

Backed by the commitment of its team, Sépaq promotes the territories and public assets entrusted to it and ensures their sustainability for the benefit of its customers, the regions of Quebec and future generations. It connects people to nature.

This content was produced by Le Devoir’s special publications team in collaboration with the advertiser. Le Devoir’s editorial team played no role in the production of this content.