12 Winter Activities to enjoy as a family around Lac-Saint-Jean

Domaine-du-Roy Area

Have fun at the Roberval Ice Village

Le Village sur glace de Roberval is a must-see in Lac-Saint-Jean. During the winter, the lake freezes over, allowing for the creation of a mini village where a ton of activities for the whole family take place!

Train rides, scavenger hunts, line dancing, Olympic-style games, inflatable games, a sugar shack, fireworks, a coconut hunt, and a movie theater… these are all activities offered as part of the program for this popular event, which runs until March 8.

Hit the slopes at Club Tobo-Ski

Tobo-Ski, in Saint-Félicien is perfect for families who love the outdoors. Snowboarders and skiers, take note: this mountain offers a 70-meter vertical drop, which is ideal for children just learning. In addition to snow sports, you can also enjoy tubing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking.

Learn about the culture at the Musée ilnu de Mashteuiatsh

Visitors of all ages will be fascinated to learn more about the way of life of the Pekuakamiulnuatsh, a people with a rich history.

Through various exhibits and activities, visitors to the Musée Ilnu de Mashteuiatsh immerse themselves in Indigenous cultural heritage. For example, the museum features the “Tressages” exhibit, which showcases the creative clothing designs of 11 Indigenous artists. Don’t miss out—this activity is free until February 17!

Get up close with nature at the Zoo sauvage de Saint-Félicien

Renowned throughout Quebec, the Zoo sauvage de Saint-Félicien is a must-see stop on any family trip to Lac-Saint-Jean. As you stroll along its snow-covered trails, you’ll have the chance to observe a variety of wildlife. Animals from the Arctic tundra, the Rocky Mountains, East Asia, Mongolia, and, of course, Quebec, call this vast site home.

Don’t forget to hop aboard the famous guided Boreal Train, which will let you admire the wild animals up close. Fun fact: admission is half-price during the winter season—one more reason to visit our animal friends!

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Maria-Chapdelaine Area

Visit les Délices du Lac-Saint-Jean and sample local flavors

Are your kids feeling peckish? Stop by the gourmet shop Les Délices du Lac-Saint-Jean in Albanel. This local business offers a wide variety of delicious regional products, ranging from sweets and spreads to sauces, beverages, and even wellness products. While you’re there, be sure to visit the museum, where you’ll learn all about the famous wild blueberries of Lac-Saint-Jean.

Go hiking at Pointe-Racine-Vauvert

If you love snowshoeing and cross-country skiing with your family, this is for you! Just off the shores of Lac-Saint-Jean lies a little slice of paradise: the secteur Pointe-Racine-Vauvert. At your own pace, enjoy exploring the miles of trails through the enchanting natural landscape of Vauvert, at the western end of Lac-Saint-Jean.

Discover the joys of winter at Parc Mahikan/Aventuraid

Dog sledding, snowmobiling, wolf watching, snowshoeing… that’s what Aventuraid has to offer for winter nature lovers. For the more adventurous, multi-day packages are available. The company also offers daily activities, which are perfect for giving kids a day of wonder!

Experience dog sledding with Attractions Boréales

Would you like to enjoy a magical experience straight out of a movie? Visit  Attractions Boréales, a company that offers dog sledding tours. The whole family will be charmed by the Alaskan Malamutes and Canadian Eskimos, two northern dog breeds that make up the team.

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Lac-Saint-Jean-Est Area

Hit the slopes at Mont Lac-Vert

Located in Hébertville, Mont Lac-Vert is truly ideal for families. There are plenty of activities to enjoy, ranging from downhill skiing and snowshoeing to fat biking and tubing. Note that a beginner’s slope and a rental shop are available for those just learning. Plus, in the evening, the mountain lights up, much to the delight of snowboarders and skiers.

Walking on Lake Saint-Jean at Parc Octopus

In Desbiens, you’ll find Parc Octopus, a place where you can enjoy family-friendly winter activities such as snowshoeing and snowshoe skiing (hok skiing). Whether you bring your own gear or rent it, follow the marked trails and discover the vastness and beauty of snow-covered Lac Saint-Jean.

Enjoy Winter at the Parc d’une Rive à l’autre

The Parc d’une Rive à l’autre is divided into three sections: the Mont Villa Saguenay ski center, the Dorval center, and Pointe des Américains. All of these locations are in Alma and offer different activities.

First, the Mont Villa Saguenay Center is a small mountain perfect for children, where you can enjoy snow sports and have fun on the tube slides. The Dorval Center, meanwhile, features enchanting trails where you can go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking. Finally, Pointe des Américains allows hikers to take a break outdoors amidst nature bordered by icy waters.

Go for a hike at the Ferme à Minuit

Located in Sainte-Monique, la Ferme à Minuit offers dog-sledding excursions. One thing is paramount to this local business: the animals’ well-being. If you’d like to enjoy this adventure with your family,  you must book online..