Bas-Saint-Laurent is a particularly popular snowmobile destination, not only because it offers seaside trails, but also because you can ride inland through the Notre-Dame Mountains. Snowmobiling in this area will give you the opportunity to admire views of pristine valleys, snow-covered forests and frozen lakes. Here are a few spots you may want to add to your itinerary!

Some info

Part of the Appalachians, the Notre-Dame Mountains are over 200 million years old. Running parallel to the St. Lawrence, they stretch from the southwestern end of the province all the way to Gaspésie. In Bas-Saint-Laurent, you can explore them on snowmobile trails that will take you through the high country. And where did their name come from? (Notre Dame means Our Lady.) It is said to have originated from Jacques Cartier’s passage through the region on August 15, 1535, which is the feast of the Assumption of Mary, also known as Our Lady.

How to get there and what to see

In the Témiscouata area, follow Trans-Québec trail #85 (TQ85), Trans-Québec trail #35 (TQ35) and regional trail #571 around Lake Témiscouata. The largest lake in Eastern Québec and the second largest south of the St. Lawrence, this body of water is a magnificent sight in the winter! Follow TQ85 along the shores of the lake and across several snowmobile bridges.

In Trinité-des-Monts, along TQ35, you can immerse yourself in nature. It’s not uncommon to see white-tailed deer feeding at dusk, just a few metres from the trail. Keep your eyes peeled as you make your way through this area to make sure you don’t miss anything!

At the eastern end of the region, follow Trans-Québec trail #5, then branch off onto regional trail #579 towards Saint-Gabriel-de-Rimouski. You’ll find yourself in one of the oldest maple groves in the province, in the middle of which sits Domaine Valga. Open daily, this snowmobile clubhouse offers meals as well as accommodations in a log inn or cabins (reservations required). While you’re here, go for ride around the area: you’re sure to catch glimpses of many species of wildlife!

Ride ideas

Here are a few rides you can go on to explore the Notre-Dame Mountains:

• Notre-Dame Mountain Tour
• Big Bas-Saint-Laurent Snowmobile Tour
• Témiscouata Tour

For other ride ideas in Bas-Saint-Laurent, consult the snowmobile trail map for this region, which you can view or order on our website.

Are you planning to explore the Notre-Dame Mountains on your next snowmobile trip in Bas-Saint-Laurent? The area’s bucolic landscapes are sure to charm you!