Quebec City: Ice Canoeing with Hot Chocolate & Sauna

Imagine gliding across a giant frozen river, your paddle slicing through thick ice, surrounded by snow-covered landscapes and breathtaking winter views. That’s exactly what this ice canoeing tour offers in Quebec—a chance to try a truly unique activity, learn about its historical roots, and warm up afterward in a cozy sauna. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or just looking for an authentic winter experience, this tour packs in fun, culture, and comfort.

What we love about this experience is how safe and well-organized it is, with guides who seem genuinely passionate about sharing this Quebecois pastime. The stunning scenery of the Saint-Lawrence River really makes the adventure memorable, and the added touch of hot chocolate and a Nordic sauna ensures you’ll leave feeling both exhilarated and relaxed. The only potential hiccup? Since weather conditions can impact the tour, it’s worth planning with some flexibility.

This experience is especially suited for those who are comfortable with moderate physical activity and eager to try something off the beaten path. First-timers will appreciate the detailed safety briefing and supportive guides. But if you’re traveling with young children, mobility issues, or health concerns, it might be best to consider other options. Still, for adventurous travelers who want a true taste of Quebec’s winter culture, this tour is a fantastic pick.

Key Points

• Authentic Quebec Experience: Learn about the historical role of ice canoeing in local maritime culture.
• Stunning Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic winter landscapes along the Saint-Lawrence River.
• Safe & Supportive Guides: Well-trained guides ensure safety while making the activity accessible.
• Inclusive & All-Levels Friendly: Suitable for first-timers with technical training and safety instructions.
• Comfort & Warmth: Conclude your day with hot chocolate, pastries, and a relaxing Nordic sauna.
• Flexible & Weather-Dependent: Tours operate based on favorable conditions, with options to reschedule or get refunds.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary: From Land to Ice and Back Again

Your adventure starts about a 15-minute drive from downtown Quebec City, heading to a designated boat ramp behind Tennis Montcalm. The location is straightforward to find, marked clearly with a “Canot à glace expérience” sign. Once there, you’re greeted warmly by passionate guides eager to introduce you to one of Quebec’s most unusual winter sports.

The initial phase involves getting equipped. Guides provide neoprene socks and boots, crampons, leg protectors, life jackets, and fitted mittens—everything needed to stay warm and safe. During this brief, informative safety and technical training, the guides emphasize proper techniques and precautions, which is reassuring especially for newcomers. We appreciated how they took the time to explain each step clearly, ensuring everyone felt confident.

Once prepared, you’ll head onto the ice-covered river. The routes are tailored to current weather and tide conditions, so no two trips are exactly alike. The main activities include paddling with oars and scooting with crampons—an unusual combination that adds to the fun and challenge. The guides also encourage you to try walking on the ice midway through the trip, providing a perspective that’s both awe-inspiring and humbling.

The Scenic Strolls & Hot Chocolate Break

Around halfway, you’ll stop on a large floating ice sheet. Here, you can take a breather, sip warm hot chocolate and nibble pastries, all while marveling at the panoramic views of snow-draped shores and the expansive river. Reviewers have raved about this pause—calling it a “breathless” moment that’s both scenic and cozy.

Photos are another highlight. The guides often carry GoPro cameras, capturing your moments on the water. Afterward, they share these digital memories, giving you a keepsake of your Quebec winter adventure. One reviewer noted, “We had pictures taken without having to bring our own phone,” which is a nice perk.

The Warm-Up: Sauna & Conversation

After returning to the mainland, the tour shifts to comfort. The Nordic sauna offers a warm, tranquil spot with a splendid view of the river, perfect for unwinding after the physical activity. Guests consistently mention how much they appreciated this relaxing conclusion, especially after a chilly day on the ice.

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What’s Included & What’s Not

The price of $180 per person might seem steep at first glance, but considering the all-inclusive nature—guides, equipment, safety training, hot chocolate, pastries, and digital photos—the value is clear. The tour lasts about 3 hours, which balances active time with relaxing moments. Note that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to find your way to the meeting point, Anse-au-Foulon, behind the Tennis Montcalm club.

Weather & Physical Readiness

Since this is a winter activity, weather plays a crucial role. Tours only go ahead under favorable conditions, with the possibility of rescheduling or refunds if the weather doesn’t cooperate. The activity requires a moderate level of physical ability—you’ll be paddling, scooting, and walking on ice—so it’s not suitable for everyone, especially children under 12 or those with mobility or health issues.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

The reviews speak volumes. Guests frequently mention knowledgeable guides who make the experience safe and enjoyable. Many describe the scenery as “breathtaking,” and the activity as “a once-in-a-lifetime feeling.” One reviewer from Denmark called it an “amazing tour” with guides who made them feel secure. Others appreciated the friendly atmosphere, the delicious hot chocolate, and the chance to learn about a Quebecois tradition.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

If you’re craving an authentic, active winter experience, this tour delivers just that. It combines culture, adventure, and relaxation in a way that’s engaging without being overwhelming. The small group setting ensures personalized attention, and the safety measures in place make it accessible even for first-timers.

Although it’s weather-dependent and requires some physical effort, the supportive guides, stunning views, and thoughtful touches like hot chocolate and the sauna make it well worth the investment. For travelers who want a memorable story to tell and a deeper connection to Quebec’s winter traditions, this activity hits the mark.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for beginners?
Yes, the activity is designed for first-timers, with safety instructions, technical training, and guides on hand to support you throughout.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, including preparation, the activity itself, breaks, and the sauna.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable, weather-appropriate clothes, including two pairs of warm socks, tights, long-sleeve base layers, a light winter jacket, a beanie, and possibly a buff. You may also want extra clothes for after and a Ziploc bag for your phone or camera.

Is transportation included?
No, participants are responsible for getting to the meeting point at Anse-au-Foulon behind Tennis Montcalm.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the ice canoeing activity, safety and technical training, equipment (neoprene socks, boots, crampons, leg protectors, life jackets, mittens), hot chocolate, pastries, and digital photos/videos.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t favorable, you can reschedule or receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Are children allowed?
Not under 12 years old. This activity requires a moderate level of physical ability, which might not suit very young children or those with certain health issues.

What if I have mobility issues?
This tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

How are the guides?
Guests frequently praise the guides as knowledgeable, attentive, and passionate about sharing this activity and Quebec’s winter culture.

Will I get photos?
Yes, guides use GoPro cameras to take pictures and videos, which are shared afterward.

Final Thoughts

This ice canoeing experience in Quebec City offers a rare glimpse into a traditional winter activity that’s as scenic as it is fun. You’ll gain a new appreciation for the resilience and ingenuity of Quebecois culture, all while enjoying the thrill of paddling on frozen waters. The inclusion of hot chocolate and a sauna ensures you’ll finish feeling cozy rather than frozen.

Perfect for adventurous spirits, curious travelers, or anyone looking to tick a bucket list activity off in a memorable way, this tour is well-organized, safe, and genuinely engaging. Expect stunning scenery, friendly guides, and a story that will stick with you long after the snow melts.

Whether it’s your first time on an ice canoe or you’re returning for a second round, this tour offers a genuine slice of winter life in Quebec that’s hard to find elsewhere. Pack your warm clothes, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare for a day that’s both exhilarating and relaxing.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby