Are you planning to go on a snowmobile trip this winter? The regions of Bas-Saint-Laurent, Gaspésie and Côte-Nord in Eastern Québec are ideal snowmobile destinations thanks to heavy snowfall and the many snowmobile-friendly services they offer. Keep reading to find out how to prepare for your snowmobile trip in our regions so you can enjoy it to the fullest!

1. Choose your destination

Have you been itching to go on a snowmobile trip for a while? The first thing to do is to decide where you’re going to go! Bas-Saint-Laurent, Gaspésie and Côte-Nord are particularly popular destinations since they offer 6000 km (3700 mi.) of marked and well-groomed trails, numerous secure clubhouses and other snowmobile-friendly accommodations, winter comfort food and much more!

2. Plan your itinerary

Now that you’ve decided to visit one of our regions (or all three!), it’s time to plan your itinerary. To make things easier for you, we’ve put together several ride ideas ranging in length from one to several days. You can even explore both shores of the St. Lawrence in a single trip. All you need to do is select the ride that suits you best! You can also use other simple and effective tools such as the FCMQ interactive map and the iMotoneige app to visualize the various trails in our regions.

3. Book your accommodations

Be sure to book your stay as soon as possible, as we don’t recommend sleeping under the stars at this time of year! Take a look at the accommodations available in Bas-Saint-Laurent, Gaspésie and Côte-Nord: you’ll be happy to see that many lodging establishments are near the trails and offer specific amenities for snowmobilers such as secure parking and garages. Some even have a pool or spa where you can relax after a long day on the trails!

4. Locate services and restaurants along your itinerary

You’ll want to make a few stops as you explore our regions, whether to refuel, warm up or grab a bite to eat. We therefore suggest that you map out in advance the gas stations, snowmobile clubhouses and restaurants where you’ll want to stop during your trip. And why not add a few microbreweries to your itinerary? They’re great places to spend your evenings!

5. Prepare your snowmobile

Time flies and the snow is piling up fast! Your departure is just around the corner! To make sure your trip goes smoothly, you’ll need a sled in good working order. Although you’ll find several dealerships in our regions, remember to check the condition of your snowmobile before you leave. You wouldn’t want your trip to be cut short by mechanical failure!

6. Pack your bags and check trail conditions

Now that your departure is just a few days away, you’re no doubt brimming with excitement! Make sure you have everything you’ll need for your trip when you pack your bags: any documents required, including paper maps (which are always handy when there’s no cell service), your gear and clothing (including a swimsuit for the spa!), what you’ll need in case of an emergency, etc. Consult this list we put together to make sure you don’t forget anything! Above all, be sure to buy your trail permit, which is required to ride on snowmobile trails in Québec. Lastly, check trail conditions (grooming status, snowfall levels) along the route you’ll be following during your trip.

It’s finally time to set off on your snowmobile adventure! Enjoy the trails, take photos of the highlights of your trip and, above all, stay safe!