Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean: the Snowmobilers’ Paradise!

In winter, Lac Saint-Jean becomes a real magnet for the eye with its infinite white. This icy body of water offers landscapes out of the ordinary. Stroll along the trails surrounding it by taking the Tour du Lac Omer-Harvey circuit and discover the diversity and warm welcome of the inhabitants of its many lakeside municipalities. Snowmobile enthusiasts will be delighted to discover unique circuits such as La Passerelle du 49^e. With a length of 236 kilometres and seven footbridges, you can safely cross the mythical rivers north of Lac Saint-Jean, where snow conditions are among the most constant in Quebec. 

Along the way, on the unique territory of the Laurentian Wildlife Reserve, make sure to pass by Mont-Apica, which has undergone a rejuvenation cure in recent years. A stop is well worth it, especially for its observatory positioned at an altitude of 884 metres, offering a breathtaking view of snow-covered mountains as far as the eye can see. The region also has a wide variety of unique relays.

The Saguenay Fjord is majestic all year round. In winter, its landscapes change, but the panorama remains just as impressive with its steep cliffs plunging into icy waters, its summits swept by wind and snow in great quantity. Punctuated by picturesque villages, everything is there to enjoy a varied and quality offer both in terms of accommodation and activities. Take advantage of your snowmobile trip to visit the ice fishing villages of La Baie, L'Anse-Saint-Jean and Sainte-Rose-du-Nord. 

The most daring will opt for the Route du Fjord circuit, which totals 521 kilometres and covers the north and south shores of the Saguenay River. The route is mountainous and along the way, you will have access to exceptional viewpoints. To cross the river in Tadoussac, you take the ferry. A unique experience for sure! Then, on the north shore, you will be close to the Monts-Valin. The most popular sector of the region for snowmobilers. Take advantage of this opportunity to ride the circuit Les Sommets du Fjord. With its international status, it is safer thanks to wider and less pronounced curves as well as less steep slopes.

The Monts-Valin sector is without a doubt the dream place for snowmobilers. They arrive as soon as the first snowstorm drops and are present until spring. The trails are exceptional, the snow cover is constant, the services and lodging are numerous, in short everything is there! In addition, several hotels in the region offer packages specifically for snowmobilers who wish to explore this mythical area while finding comfort at the end of the day. All this is orchestrated by offering a shuttle service to the beginning of the circuits or thanks to their prime location near the trails. 

A circuit not to be missed is certainly the Sommets des Monts-Valin which crosses the Monts-Valin massif between 5 peaks of more than 770 metres in altitude, all offering a magnificent view of the region, and especially the Saguenay Fjord. In some places, it is possible to see the wind turbines of the Parc des Laurentides, Lake Saint-Jean and the city of Saguenay.