Top 10 must‑do winter activities in Saguenay

When it comes to ski resorts, the Saguenay area and the 13 municipalities of the Fjord‑du‑Saguenay region are truly spoiled for choice. The two main (and largest) mountains in the region each offer a different, but equally memorable, experience!

First, Le Valinouët stands out across Québec for its 100% natural snow. Yes, you read that right! Loved by many, this mountain is located in a truly unique setting: the Monts‑Valin. These mountains receive over 600 centimetres of snowfall each year, making them a true winter paradise to explore.

With two slopes, 36 runs, and a 350‑metre vertical drop, Le Valinouët is definitely a must‑visit for a day of skiing in Saguenay!

Meanwhile, Mont‑Édouard ski resort is located in the Bas‑Saguenay area, more precisely in the charming village of L’Anse‑Saint‑Jean. This mountain, boasting a 450‑metre vertical drop, offers action‑packed runs and spectacular views of the Saguenay Fjord. It, too, is an essential winter destination!

In winter, the Monts‑Valin area receives such heavy snowfall that the trees become completely buried under the flakes, giving them a ghost‑like appearance. This legendary site is known worldwide for its famous snow ghosts.

Whether on snowshoes or aboard a shuttle, you can set out to discover this enchanting landscape, where trees are entirely covered in snow. We promise—the beauty of nature will leave you in awe!

What could be more enjoyable than breathing in the crisp winter air on a snowshoeing hike?

The region is filled with beautiful places to go snowshoeing, including Parc national des Monts‑Valin and the Bec‑Scie Outdoor Recreation Center.
The national park captivates visitors with its grand, natural beauty, especially thanks to the enormous amounts of snow it receives each year. Come admire postcard‑worthy landscapes as you snowshoe your way to the summits!

Closer to the city, the Bec‑Scie Outdoor Recreation Center takes on a unique charm in winter. With numerous trails available, it’s truly a must‑visit destination during the winter season.

What would a winter trip to the region be without an ice fishing experience?

During winter, the Saguenay Fjord transforms into a village on ice. Fishermen drill holes in the ice and enjoy teasing the fish while having fun. This activity is highly anticipated and enjoyed throughout the year by both visitors and locals alike.

During your stay, you too can experience ice fishing by renting a cabin. Visit the Les Glaces du Fjord website to discover all the available fishing cabin outfitters.

The idea of going on a dog sledding outing is a dream come true for many and for good reason! During your trip to the region, you have the opportunity to live this incredible experience thanks to local companies that place great importance on animal welfare.

We recommend contacting Les Balades Solo or Entre Chien et Loup to enjoy a truly memorable experience.

Fatbiking is becoming increasingly popular during the winter in Saguenay. These bikes, equipped with extra‑wide tires, are specially designed to ride on snow. Given the region’s abundant snowfall, there are many places where this sport can be enjoyed.

Among them are Le Norvégien Outdoor Recreation Center, Le Panoramique Mountain Bike Center, Rivière‑du‑Moulin Park, and Bec‑Scie Outdoor Recreation Center. Some even offer fatbike rentals! It’s a great activity idea to make the most of your winter stay in the region.

In March, maple syrup takes center stage throughout Québec, and the Saguenay Fjord region is no exception. Take advantage of your time here to experience this ancestral tradition that is known around the world! Maple syrup, outdoor activities, traditional songs, and indulgent meals are all waiting for you.

We suggest visiting Érablière au Sucre d’Or, one of the largest maple groves in the Saguenay–Lac‑Saint‑Jean region, with a total of 6,000 taps. Located in Laterrière, this sugar shack offers a wide variety of sweet products and activities during the sugaring‑off season, which runs in March and April.

If you plan to visit Sainte‑Rose‑du‑Nord, nicknamed the Pearl of the Fjord, don’t miss the chance to satisfy your sweet tooth at Érablière au pied des Monts‑Valin. The owners of this family‑run business have been passionate about maple syrup for generations. They create a beautiful selection of delicious local products made from their own maple syrup and also offer various activities and accommodations.

A little farther along the Fjord Route in Sacré‑Cœur, you’ll find the sugar shack at Ferme 5 Étoiles. Celebrate the arrival of spring with a traditional meal featuring classic flavors and a lively atmosphere. Be sure to take some time to meet the farm’s many animals!

Truly, a trip to a sugar shack is an experience everyone should enjoy at least once in their lifetime.

Even though temperatures drop during the winter season, the number of activities available in Saguenay certainly does not. Festivals, events, and activities keep the destination lively, even in the coldest months.

In November and December, the spotlight is on the Saguenay Guitar Festival and, of course, the Christmas markets. In January, February, and March, festivals such as Saguenay en Neige, Festi‑Frette, and the Hivernades de Saguenay take place. At the end of winter, in mid‑March, you absolutely must not miss REGARD – Saguenay International Short Film Festival, a true must‑see event!

This museum is a must‑visit year‑round. With its giant aquarium, multimedia show, vivarium, and exhibitions showcasing the region’s history and the formation of the fjord, you’re sure to enjoy a memorable visit to this very popular museum.

The Fjord Museum is suitable for all ages. With the animals it houses and the activities it offers, it’s a perfect family outing!
As an added bonus, since the museum is located near the Saguenay Fjord, you’ll also have the opportunity to admire the beauty of the frozen fjord.

A true must‑see, this very popular museum tells the story of more than 100 years of history of the former pulp mill (paper pulp factory) once known as La Pulperie de Chicoutimi. Today, more than a century later, this company, which enjoyed international success in the early 1920s, has become an essential museum to visit.

You can explore the remains of several historical structures from that era and learn more about the region’s history. Summer or winter, this regional museum is a must‑visit destination.

The Saguenay Fjord region is filled with activities and places to discover during the winter. Which must‑see attraction will be your first stop?