Escape to one of the Outaouais region’s best-kept secrets: Kenauk Nature. Located between Montebello and Papineauville, this vast private reserve opens the door to a world apart. Here, nature reigns supreme, and every activity is carefully designed to reconnect you with your surroundings. The daily cross-country ski pass allows you to explore a vast network of exclusive trails, suitable for all levels. Breathe in the crisp forest air, listen to the snow crunching under your skis, and enjoy the freedom of gliding silently through the magnificent scenery. Follow this with a half-day guided tour combining snowshoeing and ice fishing. Walk through the fresh snow to a secluded lake before drilling a hole in the ice and trying your hand at catching a wriggling trout. Everything is included: equipment, advice, and an authentic atmosphere. Enjoy a quintessentially Canadian activity with family or friends.

Take a deep breath of fresh air and set off on an adventure with Aventure Hélianthe. Nestled in the majestic Davidson Forest, this outdoor cooperative offers a different way to experience winter through guided expeditions that combine nature, personal achievement, and simple pleasures. With over 30 kilometers of marked trails winding through century-old oak trees and giant white pines, the forest reveals its treasures to those who dare to venture in. Admire the breathtaking views of the Ottawa River from the peaks and follow in the footsteps of white-tailed deer. For a gentle introduction to the winter outdoors, choose the Adventure Tasting package. Put on your snowshoes for a short 1.5-kilometer hike to a charming winter campsite, where a dinner prepared on site awaits you. It's the perfect way to savor the moment and discover the joys of winter camping at a leisurely pace. For those who dream of total disconnection, the Weekend Getaway package is a must. Three days and two nights in the heart of the forest, where the guide takes care of everything. All you have to do is let yourself be carried away by the rhythm of nature. It's a truly turnkey vacation! The more adventurous will be thrilled by the challenge of the Coureurs des Bois package. On this extreme three-day expedition, you'll carry your own gear, tackle the most demanding trails in the Davidson Forest, and reconnect with the essence of gentle survival.

Strap on your skis and head to Nakkertok Nordic, the largest cross-country skiing network in Eastern Canada. With nearly 80 kilometers of carefully maintained trails spread across two areas, Nakkertok South and Nakkertok North, the site welcomes both beginner and experienced skiers. At Nakkertok Nordic, winter starts early! Thanks to its own snow guns, the facility guarantees optimal snow conditions starting in mid-November, a real blessing for enthusiasts eager to hit the first trails of the season. This community is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience winter to the fullest in the Outaouais region, whether for a quick weekday outing or a weekend sports expedition.

Immerse yourself in the serenity of Gatineau Park, a vast protected area covering 361 km² of wooded hills, frozen lakes, and snow-covered trails. Famous for its breathtaking scenery, from Champlain Lookout to the tranquil shores of Lake Philippe and the Mackenzie-King Estate, Gatineau Park offers one of the most impressive cross-country skiing networks in North America. More than 200 kilometers of groomed trails welcome both classic and skate skiers, with courses ranging from easy to very difficult. Each outing is a total immersion in a magnificent setting; where nature reigns supreme. Snowshoe enthusiasts will be delighted with over 90 kilometers of trails, many of which are shared with fat bike enthusiasts. The latter have access to over 60 kilometers of ungroomed trails, where adventure is experienced at the pace of fresh snow compacted by footsteps. And for a complete immersion, try winter camping in the peaceful Lac Philippe area. Access the ready-to-camp sites only by ski or snowshoe and enjoy an unforgettable night. The experience is very popular, so book early!

Let yourself be carried away by a winter wonderland setting at the Base de plein air Air-Eau-Bois, a must-see nature destination nestled on the shores of the Poisson Blanc reservoir, just one hour from Gatineau. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or simply curious, the center offers a wide range of activities that awaken the senses and warm the soul. Slip on your snowshoes and explore over 15 kilometers of snow-covered, silent trails, where each step brings you closer to the wilderness. Try Hok skis, a hybrid between snowshoes and skis. Ski enthusiasts can also enjoy cross-country skiing on a variety of trails, while the more adventurous can try off-piste skiing in exclusive areas with a day pass. Have fun on the ice rink, whizz down the slope on a tube and warm up by the fire after a day in the great outdoors. Extend your experience and discover accommodation options. Pitch your tent on a secluded site in the middle of the forest and discover the joys of winter camping. For added comfort, opt for unusual accommodation: a geodesic dome, a micro-chalet, or a micro-refuge.

In the Outaouais, winter isn’t a season to endure, it’s an invitation to get outside, get active, and recharge your batteries. So, throw on your warmest coat, pack your bag, and set out to discover the best that winter has to offer. The Outaouais awaits! + For even more suggestions, check out the official Outaouais 2025-2026 tourist guide! Discover all the activities the region has to offer and plan your itinerary based on the area you want to explore.