Quebec City: Ice Canoeing with Hot Chocolate & Sauna

Vieux-Québec-Cap-Blanc-colline Parlementaire, Quebec City



Experience the thrill of ice canoeing on Quebec City's Saint-Lawrence River on a guided trip. Travel on ice-covered waters, admire panoramic views, sip on hot chocolate, and enjoy a nordic sauna.

Experience ice canoeing on the St. Lawrence River near Quebec City, ideal for beginners interested in a unique winter activity with guided support.

Highlights

  • Try ice canoeing on the St. Lawrence River
  • Sip local hot chocolate on floating ice sheets
  • Feel the ice crunch under handcrafted crampons
  • Relax in a Nordic sauna with panoramic river views
  • Learn from passionate guides about the history of ice canoeing

Description

This all-inclusive ice canoeing experience takes place near a boat ramp about 15 minutes from downtown Quebec City. It offers a safe, enjoyable introduction to the historical significance of ice canoeing on the St. Lawrence River.

Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by your guide who will explain the history of ice canoeing in the region. You will receive specialized equipment, training on basic techniques, and safety instructions before heading to the river. Routes are adapted to current weather and tide conditions.

Participants will have the chance to use both oars and crampons (“scooters”) during the activity. Midway, the group stops to walk on the ice, enjoy hot chocolate and pastries, and take photos. The small group setting provides a peaceful experience on the river with views that complement the activity.

After returning to shore, you can warm up and review the outing. Guides use GoPro cameras to record photos and videos, which will be provided to you digitally after the tour.

The experience concludes with access to a lounge area and a Nordic sauna overlooking the St. Lawrence River, offering a comfortable way to relax after the activity.

Includes

  • Ice canoeing tour
  • Guide and technical safety training
  • Neoprene socks and boots
  • Crampons
  • Leg protectors
  • Life jackets
  • Fitted mittens
  • Hot chocolate and pastries
  • Digital photos and videos
  • Changing rooms
  • Access to Nordic sauna

Excludes

  • Hotel pickup or drop-off
  • Towels

Important Information

  • A moderate level of physical ability is required
  • The tour operates only in favorable weather conditions
  • A minimum of 2 participants is required for the tour to run
  • If minimum numbers are not met or conditions are poor, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund
  • Please arrive on time as indicated (e.g., 9:00 AM)
  • Bring 2 pairs of warm socks, 2 pairs of tights, 2 technical long-sleeve garments (one base layer, one warmer), a light winter jacket, a sports beanie, and/or a buff if available
  • Consider bringing extra clothes to change into after the activity and a ziplock bag for your phone or camera
  • Bring a bathing suit, towel, and sandals if you plan to use the sauna
  • Sunglasses are optional

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 4 days in advance for a full refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ice canoeing in Quebec City is a winter sport where participants paddle canoes across frozen and partially frozen sections of the St. Lawrence River.
The ice canoeing activity starts near a boat ramp approximately 15 minutes from downtown Quebec City on the St. Lawrence River.
This ice canoeing experience is suitable for beginners and small groups interested in winter outdoor activities in Quebec City.
Participants receive handcrafted crampons to feel the texture of the ice and appropriate safety gear guided by experienced instructors.
Yes, the tour includes a break to enjoy local hot chocolate served on floating ice sheets on the St. Lawrence River.
Yes, the experience includes time to relax in a Nordic sauna overlooking the St. Lawrence River after ice canoeing.
The length of the ice canoeing activity varies; check the official website for current duration and schedule details.
Wear warm, waterproof winter clothing and footwear suitable for cold, icy conditions; specific recommendations are provided by the guides.
Yes, passionate and knowledgeable guides lead the ice canoeing tour and provide instruction throughout the experience.
Ice canoeing is available during the winter months when the St. Lawrence River is frozen; check the website for current availability.

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