Best Cross-Country Skiing in Québec City

Québec’s national training centre for cross‑country skiing just happens to be one of the most extensive trail network in North America, with over 200 km of trails and numerous heated huts along the way. As you might expect, the grooming is impeccable. Should you need any gear, a ski boutique is conveniently located onsite. 

Looking for unbeatable conditions that often last into mid‑April? Camp Mercier is a cross‑country skier’s dream, with trails that go winding through a majestic evergreen forest. Bonus: Admission and equipment rentals are free for children and youth age 17 and under.

Dreaming of cross‑country skiing through a snowy evergreen forest with tight trails and a nice succession of uphills and downhills? Head to Sentiers du Moulin! This heavenly place, especially for classic cross-country skiing, is only 20 minutes from Québec’s city centre. Bring your equipment or rent on site and spend a day exploring more than 45 km of magnificent trails and 6 huts in an absolutely magical setting.

If you want to combine skiing with quality family time, Duchesnay Resort has a wide range of winter activities on site, with free admission and equipment for those age 17 and under. The network of groomed trails for classic and skate skiing extends for over 60 km and has 4 heated huts for a mid‑ski break.

You’ll find this skiable terrain in an unusual location: the grounds of centre Castor located on Valcartier military base. It’s got plenty of trails for classic and skate skiing and the grooming is impeccable. Get your skis ready in the waxing room, then head out to explore the site. There’s something for everyone: flat trails, uphills, downhills, and turns, all in a gorgeous setting.

Forêt Montmorency is the go-to spot for cross-country skiing enthusiasts. Thanks to its geographical location, it enjoys optimal snow conditions, allowing skiing from mid-November. The centre remains open until early January, when most other centres near Québec City are also in operation. Keep your eyes open—you might spot elite athletes or teams in training!

Don’t miss the opportunity to see this big urban park all covered in snow. There aren’t too many cities where you can slip on your skis almost as soon as you leave your hotel.

The Plains of Abraham has hosted multiple FIS World Cup events and is absolutely free, giving you the chance to go cross‑country skiing in the heart of the city, steps away from a number of hotels. If you’re a beginner, start by the skating rink (in front of the fine art museum) so you can get your bearings on flat terrain. You can even rent your equipment onsite. A unique urban experience!