Saguenay's reputation is well established among Quebec and international snowmobilers. With its many kilometers of trails, its natural attractions such as the legendary Monts-Valin massif and the Saguenay Fjord, as well as its abundant snow, this destination is a perfect choice for a snowmobile trip.
Every year, many snowmobilers come to Saguenay to practice this sport that has become a unique winter tradition. This large territory offers a huge playground capable of satisfying all types of enthusiasts.
Discover this 4-day itinerary, from the Route du Fjord to the Monts-Valin summit.
Psit... Before your stay, order the printed map of the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean snowmobile trails at paradisdelamotoneige.com. This map is updated every year. You will be able to discover the regional trails and the businesses offering services to snowmobilers.
Day 1
Start your journey on the Route du Fjord, a 540 km route that follows the north and south shores of the Saguenay River, through mountainous territory, ice fishing villages, magnificent views of the fjord and the services of charming villages and attractions in the area. More than thirty restaurants are also ready to welcome you during your excursion.
From Baie-Sante-Catherine in Charlevoix, drive to L'Anse-Saint-Jean, where a good night's sleep awaits you at the Maison de Vébron. Located on the side of Mont-Édouard, it's the ideal place for an overnight stay between the fjord and the mountains. The lodge has 18 rooms with private bathrooms and is adaptable, allowing you to share good times with family, couples or friends, depending on the preferences of your group. Want to relax? With your reservation, you will have the possibility to access the Nordic spa Édouard-les-bains, which is located at five minutes walk from the rooms.
Day 2
The next day, continue your journey along the Fjord Highway towards Saguenay. Throughout the day, let yourself be guided by the long white trails that will lead you through picturesque villages, mountainous landscapes and remarkable viewpoints. You can even stop for a while in the ice fishing villages of the fjord and why not, chat with the local residents!
Once you arrive in town, you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to hotels as many offer easy access to the trails. Enjoy your evening in Saguenay with its many services, restaurants and tourist attractions.
You want to rent a snowmobile? Évasion Sport offers snowmobile rentals, equipment rentals and even the organization of tours with certified guides who will show you the most beautiful circuits according to your preferences! Take advantage now of these wonderful services and live an incredible experience in the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region.
Day 3
At the dawn of the third day, there is no turning back. This morning, we cross the Saguenay River to join the northern portion of the Trans-Quebec Trail that will take you from Saguenay to Tadoussac, through many unique villages. Although it is possible to do the trail in one day, we invite you to cut the road in two and set up your base camp at the Auberge du km 31 in Saint-Fulgence to explore the legendary Monts-Valin massif and its circuit des Sommets.
This 418-kilometre route criss-crosses the massif between various peaks at an altitude of over 770 metres, offering a breathtaking view of the entire region. The multitude of trails, the endless forests, the abundant snow and the sublime landscapes have made the reputation of the Monts-Valin go beyond our borders. The Relais La Chapelle, located at km 25 of the Zec Martin-Valin, is to be put on your list for a well-deserved break in an atmosphere worthy of the true relays of yesteryear.
Day 4
Once you have explored the area, you can return to the road towards Sacré-Coeur. You will be able to stay at the Ferme 5 étoiles vacation center, where you will be able to enjoy lodging with a package adapted for snowmobilers, before taking the road back to Charlevoix or the North Shore.
Let's continue the stay?
For those who are planning a trip of only a few days, this route is ideal. If you have more time, you can explore more of the Monts-Valin massif, since one day is definitely not enough to explore this colossal playground. You can also include an excursion to Lac-Saint-Jean in your Saguenay trip. In short, there are many trails and circuits in the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region and you will never have to retrace your steps.
The itinerary is on its way out, but the region still has a ton of activities to offer you. Want to continue your adventures in the region? Check out the other winter pleasures to discover a multitude of winter activities that will make you want to stay even longer on vacation in Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean.
