Quebec City: Introduction to cross-country skiing at Camp Mercier

If you’re looking to try cross-country skiing during a winter getaway in Quebec, this introductory tour at Camp Mercier offers a practical, enjoyable way to get started. It’s designed for beginners eager to learn the fundamentals in a safe, scenic setting, and the focus on small-group instruction makes it approachable for all ages from 8 upward.

What stands out most about this experience are the quality of the trails—renowned for their beauty and smoothness—and the personalized guidance from certified ski instructors. Whether you’re a total novice or have some experience but want to brush up on the basics, this tour caters well to those wanting a relaxed, educational outing.

One thing to keep in mind: it’s a full day of activity, meaning you’ll spend about four hours on the trails, with transportation included. For travelers seeking a quick taste of winter sports or a family-friendly outdoor adventure, it can be just the right fit. However, if you’re looking for a more intense or longer skiing experience, you might want to consider other options.

This tour suits families, first-timers, and nature lovers who want to explore the Laurentian Wildlife Reserve without feeling overwhelmed. It’s a practical, well-organized outing that balances learning with enjoying Quebec’s beautiful winter landscape.

Key Points

• Beginner-friendly: Designed for those new to cross-country skiing, with a progressive learning approach.
• All-inclusive: Transportation, equipment, and trail access are included, ensuring ease and convenience.
• Scenic location: Set in the Laurentian Wildlife Reserve, with quality trails and picturesque forest views.
• Duration: About 4 hours of active time, perfect for a half-day adventure.
• Small group: Limited to 10 participants, which enhances personalized instruction.
• Accessibility: Suitable for ages 8 and above, but not ideal for people with mobility limitations or wheelchairs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to Cross-Country Skiing in Quebec

When it comes to winter sports, Quebec is a treasure trove of options—from downhill skiing to snowshoeing—but cross-country skiing offers something uniquely peaceful and accessible. This tour at Camp Mercier provides a structured, beginner-oriented experience that makes the sport approachable and fun.

We love that the tour includes full equipment and trail access, removing the hassle of renting gear on your own. You’ll be guided by a certified instructor who knows how to tailor lessons for your pace, ensuring you gain confidence without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The focus on basic skills—balance, propulsion, braking, and gentle climbs—means you’ll finish the session feeling more capable and eager to explore on your own later.

One of the tour’s highlights is the trail hike in the forest, which allows you to connect with nature and see Quebec’s stunning winter landscape. Plus, the cozy picnic with hot chocolate provides a perfect end to a day spent outside.

A possible consideration is the timing—with about four hours total, it’s a full morning or afternoon commitment. If you’re pressed for time or prefer a shorter activity, this might be less ideal. Still, for those wanting a comprehensive, beginner-friendly introduction, this experience hits the right notes.

Overall, it’s a well-organized, enjoyable way to learn a new winter sport, especially suited for families, first-timers, or anyone craving a peaceful outdoor escape.

Why We Love This Tour

We appreciate how the small group setting makes learning less intimidating and more personalized. The scenic trails and forest hike are a real bonus, giving you a chance to enjoy Quebec’s winter scenery without the crowds. Plus, the all-inclusive package simplifies logistics, so you can focus solely on enjoying your day.

What to Expect: A Breakdown of the Day

Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with pick-up options at two convenient locations in Quebec City—12 Rue Sainte-Anne or 450 Rue de la Gare-du-Palais. The bus ride to Camp Mercier takes about an hour, giving you time to relax, chat with your fellow participants, or review some basic skiing tips (if you’ve done a little homework).

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Equipment and Orientation

Once you arrive, the instructor will introduce the ski equipment, checking that everything fits comfortably. This is a good chance to ask questions about the gear, which includes classic cross-country skis, boots, and poles. The guide’s focus on proper fit and technique helps prevent discomfort and injuries down the line.

Learning the Basics

The core part of the experience involves learning the fundamental skills: maintaining balance, propelling yourself forward, braking safely, and tackling gentle climbs and descents. The instructor adapts exercises to your individual pace, which ensures that beginners don’t feel overwhelmed.

From a review perspective, many participants appreciated the clear, patient guidance. One noted: “The instructor was very supportive and made everything easy to understand.” Another mentioned how they gained enough confidence to try the trails on their own afterward.

Trail and Forest Hike

After mastering the basics, you’ll head out for a short technical hike through the forest, allowing you to practice your skills in a natural setting. The trail offers beautiful views and a chance to connect with Quebec’s winter wilderness. The emphasis on scenic beauty and technical practice makes this part both enjoyable and educational.

Picnic and Hot Chocolate

A cozy picnic and hot chocolate break rounds out the day, providing warmth and a chance to share your experiences with the group. It’s a nice touch that adds a social element after the physical activity.

Return to Quebec City

After a relaxed 4-hour experience, you’ll board the bus back to your original pickup points, often reflecting on a day of discovery and new skills.

The Value of All-Inclusive Pricing

Considering the cost, this tour offers excellent value. Included are transportation, equipment, trail access, and instruction—costs that could add up if you arranged everything independently. For families or groups, the fixed price provides peace of mind, knowing that gear and access are covered.

Many travelers found that the quality of the trails and the professional guidance justified the price, especially since it lowers the barrier to trying a winter sport that can seem intimidating at first.

Authentic Experiences and Real-World Feedback

From reviews, we learn that participants appreciated the progressive learning method, which is key for beginners. One said, “The exercises were tailored to me, which made the whole experience very comfortable.” Others highlighted the scenic trails—noting how beautiful the forest landscape was even in winter.

Some reviews emphasized the small group size—limited to 10—which allows for more personalized attention from instructors. This is especially helpful when trying to master balance and propulsion for the first time.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families with children aged 8 and over, thanks to its beginner-friendly focus. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a gentle introduction to cross-country skiing in a safe environment. Nature lovers who want a peaceful, scenic outing will appreciate the forest hike and landscape views.

It’s also suited for travelers wanting a hassle-free way to try a new winter activity, as everything is organized for you. However, those with mobility challenges or wheelchair users should note that the tour isn’t designed for accessibility.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Bring winter sports gear, including warm layers, gloves, hats, and waterproof clothing.
• Since baby strollers and alcohol are not allowed, plan accordingly.
• Be prepared for cold, potentially snowy weather, so dress in moisture-wicking and insulating layers.
• The tour is suitable for children over 8 years old, making it a family-friendly activity.
• If you have limited mobility or weigh over 287 lbs (130 kg), this might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

This introduction to cross-country skiing at Camp Mercier offers a well-rounded, accessible, and scenic way to dip your toes into winter sports. The focus on beginner instruction, combined with the stunning trails of the Laurentian Wildlife Reserve, makes it a great choice for first-timers and families alike. The all-inclusive package and small group size mean you can focus on learning and enjoying instead of logistics.

If you’re looking for an authentic outdoor experience, want to learn a new skill, or simply enjoy peaceful winter landscapes, this tour provides excellent value. It strikes a fine balance between education, scenery, and comfort—making it an activity you’ll remember fondly long after the snow melts.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is suitable for children aged 8 and above. It’s designed for beginners and is family-friendly, with a focus on safety and gradual learning.

What should I bring?
Bring your winter sports gear, including warm clothing, gloves, hat, and waterproof layers. The tour provides equipment, but dressing appropriately ensures comfort and safety.

How long is the total activity?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, including transport, instruction, trail time, and the picnic break.

Are the trails suitable for beginners?
Yes, the trails are renowned for their quality and accessibility, with a progressive learning approach that caters to beginners.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is wheelchair accessibility available?
No, the tour is not wheelchair accessible, and participants with mobility impairments are advised to consider this before booking.

This tour offers a practical, scenic, and welcoming way to experience cross-country skiing near Quebec City. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as part of a group, it provides a friendly and authentic introduction to a beloved winter sport.

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