Cross Country Ski Introduction at Camp Mercier

Introduction

Our review covers the Cross Country Ski Introduction at Camp Mercier, a one-day experience designed for those eager to try this classic winter sport. While we haven’t participated ourselves, the tour offers a straightforward way to get your feet wet (or skis on snow) in the stunning Laurentides Wildlife Reserve.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its focus on beginners. The tour promises clear guidance from a certified instructor and offers a chance to learn fundamental skills like balance, propulsion, and control — all in a relaxed, scenic setting. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious picnic and hot chocolate makes it feel more like a cozy winter outing than just a lesson.

That said, one consideration is the pickup arrangement, which has received some mixed feedback. Travelers should double-check the meeting details to avoid unnecessary waiting. This tour is ideal for newcomers to cross-country skiing who want a guided, friendly introduction with plenty of beautiful forest views.

Key Points

• Ideal for beginners looking for a gentle introduction to cross-country skiing.
• Includes all essential equipment and a guided instruction tailored for first-timers.
• Scenic forest trails offer a peaceful winter landscape in the Laurentides.
• Lunch and hot chocolate provide a cozy, social break during the activity.
• Pickup and transportation are included, but verify location details beforehand.
• Limited group size (max 10) creates a more personalized experience.

What to Expect from the Tour

The tour kicks off in downtown Québec City, where you’ll meet your group early in the morning. The one-hour shuttle whisks you away to Camp Mercier in the Laurentides, offering a chance to enjoy some scenic views along the way. Once there, a guide will fit your equipment — skis, boots, poles — and give a clear, straightforward overview of classic cross-country skiing techniques. The instruction focuses on balance, propulsion, braking, and tackling simple climbs and descents on beginner terrain.

The real highlight is the easy forest trail, where you’ll get to practice your newfound skills in real snow conditions. The guide leads the group at a comfortable pace, ensuring no one feels overwhelmed. A short lunch break with hot chocolate provides a well-earned rest and a chance to chat with fellow beginners about their first impressions.

Finally, the return shuttle takes you back to Québec City, leaving you with fresh memories of your first cross-country ski experience amid stunning winter scenery.

The Journey: Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Meeting and Pickup
The tour begins in downtown Québec City at 9:00 am. The pickup is convenient for guests staying in the city, and the one-hour ride to Camp Mercier offers an opportunity to settle in and get excited about the day ahead. However, a reviewer noted that the pickup location was not as advertised, so travelers should confirm details beforehand to avoid delays.

Arrival and Equipment Fitting
At Camp Mercier, your guide will assist in fitting your skis and boots, which is especially helpful for newcomers who might be unfamiliar with the gear. The focus here is on making sure everyone feels comfortable and prepared for the trail.

Instruction and Practice
The guide then provides a step-by-step introduction to classic cross-country skiing. Expect to learn balance, propulsion, and braking techniques — essential skills to keep you safe and confident on the snow. The terrain is deliberately gentle, making it perfect for beginners.

Trail Experience
You follow your guide along an easy forest trail, which showcases the tranquility of the Laurentides. This part allows you to apply your skills in a real setting, with the instructor offering tips along the way. The scenery you’ll enjoy includes snow-covered trees and peaceful woods, perfect for taking in the winter landscape.

Lunch and Hot Chocolate
Midway through, there’s a short break for lunch and hot chocolate. The inclusion of warm drinks and a light meal enriches the experience, providing comfort and a chance to socialize with others. It’s a practical touch that makes the outing feel more like a winter picnic than a sports lesson, which many find charming and inviting.

Return and Reflection
After some fun on the trails, the shuttle whisks you back to Québec City. The tour wraps up roughly four hours after departure, leaving plenty of time for the rest of your day.

Price and Value Analysis

At $111.58 per person, the tour includes all necessary ski equipment, entrance fees, transportation, and a meal, which is quite reasonable considering the guided instruction and scenic experience. The price reflects the convenience of pickup, gear, and expert guidance, making it a good value for those new to cross-country skiing who want a hassle-free introduction.

However, it’s worth noting that the group size is limited to 10 travelers, which enhances the personalized feel but might also mean booking a few days in advance is wise, especially during peak season. Booking on average 6 days ahead suggests good availability for most travelers.

The Experience: Authenticity and Scenic Highlights

Travelers will love the stunning forest views and the chance to see the Laurentides in winter. The quiet serenity of snow-covered trees, combined with the physical activity, makes for a memorable outing.

The guidance from a certified instructor ensures you won’t feel lost or overwhelmed, especially if you’re new to skiing. The focus on fundamental skills means you’ll finish the day with a solid foundation, even if you only plan to ski casually in the future.

One reviewer mentioned that the pickup location was not as advertised, which highlights the importance of confirming details before your trip. Otherwise, the logistics are smooth, with transportation included, removing some of the usual worries about navigating in unfamiliar areas.

Practical Tips for Your Day

• Dress warmly and in layers. Even though the tour provides equipment, you’ll want good thermal clothing, gloves, and a hat.
• Bring sunglasses or goggles to shield your eyes from the winter sun on snow.
• Arrive early for pickup, and verify meeting point details to avoid waiting.
• Be prepared to spend about four hours on the snow, so wear comfortable, weather-appropriate gear.
• Confirm the weather before booking, as poor conditions could lead to rescheduling or cancellations.
• Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during busy winter months.

Final Thoughts

The Cross Country Ski Introduction at Camp Mercier offers a practical and scenic way for beginners to dip their toes into this classic Canadian winter sport. While the experience is straightforward, it packs in enough instruction, beautiful views, and cozy breaks to feel special. The small group size and guided approach ensure you won’t feel lost in the crowd, making it a good choice for first-timers.

This tour is especially perfect if you want a stress-free, all-inclusive package that handles gear, transportation, and instruction. For those curious about trying cross-country skiing without committing to a full course or multiple days, it provides a solid, enjoyable taste of winter in Quebec.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic, beginner-friendly adventure with knowledgeable guides and the chance to enjoy Quebec’s winter beauty, this tour could be just what you need.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately four hours, including transportation, instruction, trail time, and lunch.

Are the skis and equipment included?
Yes, all necessary ski equipment is provided as part of the package.

Is this suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely. The tour focuses on basic skills and is designed for those new to cross-country skiing.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers suited for winter outdoor activity. Thermal clothing, gloves, and a hat are recommended.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I confirm my pickup location?
It’s best to contact the tour provider beforehand to verify the pickup point, especially since some travelers have noted discrepancies.

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

In summary, this guided cross-country skiing tour offers a dependable, scenic, and beginner-friendly way to enjoy Quebec’s winter landscape — especially if you value expert guidance and cozy breaks. Perfect for those looking to try a new sport or simply enjoy some peaceful forest vistas in the snow.