I moved to Côte-de-Beaupré ten years ago to get closer to nature and I have never been disappointed since. There is so much to see and explore in our region! I recently packed up my bags to take up residence directly at the foot of Mont-Sainte-Anne. Since then, it feels like I moved to a vacation camp for active people. By myself or with my family, I spend most of my time outdoors, to the great delight of my body and my mind!
It is my greatest pleasure to share with you, as a new local, my favorites here at Mont-Sainte-Anne.
Main picture : Giom Giom
Alpine skiing
Of course the mountain is known for its ski area, and for good reason! We can count 71 trails covering 73 kilometers on 3 sides of the mountain. My joy is to explore it in solitary mode on a quest to enjoy first tracks on a big powder day or discover the Forêt Noire while glade skiing. I start off my day in Le Gros Vallon when the snow groomer just left the mythical pitch velvet-like, before heading West to enjoy the sun on La Crête or La Beauregard. Love it!
Mont-Sainte-Anne is also an ideal playground to introduce children to gliding sports. Both beginner runs are free, which is amazing. La Familiale is also a great trail, spanning 4,5 kilometers. We also enjoy wandering in the very pleasant Forêt Enchantée. Comes spring, we never miss a chance to stop at the sugar shack in La Picard.
Pictures : Étienne Dionne, Mont-Sainte-Anne and André-Olivier Lyra
Cross-country skiing
I recently acquired classic cross-country skiing equipment. I still do not have a lot of experience but I truly enjoy discovering the back-country of Mont-Sainte-Anne. You can access the trails directly from the alpine skiing station but it is my humble opinion that you should begin from the starting point on Rang Saint-Julien, 7 km East from the Mont. This is the most fun part and where you will be able to find trails suited for all levels.
The perfectly groomed 184 kilometers of the network make it possible to gain speed confidently during the descents. Truly perfect for beginners such as myself! And what can I possibly say about the vastness of the network… after about ten trips I still haven’t been on the same trail twice.
I fell in love with trails 32 and 33, that go past Refuge du Ruisseau Rouge and offer an impeccable view of Mont Ferréol. For those who wish to sweat a little more, the ascent Saint-Hilaire is perfect in all aspects! Trail 13 Nord, running along river Jean-Larose, is absolutely majestic, especially when the waterway is not completely frozen.
Picture : Renaud Gagnon
Ski touring
Feel like climbing the mythical Mont-Sainte-Anne in total peace and quiet? Why not try alpine touring, which allows you to reach the summit with seal skins fixed on skis or on a splitboard. Mont-Sainte-Anne has five routes, some of them using summer mountain bike trails. You are very close from alpine skiing action but you’ll feel immersed in nature. If you are a beginner, consider Montée A, which is intermediate level and should allow you to reach the summit in two hours. Afterwards, you can use the alpine skiing trail of your choice.
Interesting fact: seasonal pass is only 39$! Perfect if you wish to enjoy the mountain at a small price.
Picture : Mont-Sainte-Anne
Snowshoeing
Winter time hiking possibilities are almost endless! At the base of Mont-Sainte-Anne you will find 24 kilometers of trails. Geai Bleu is a perfect one for a first taste. To reach the summit, find L’Escarpée, my personal favorite. Need a really good challenge? Tackle the 8 km long La Libériste. If conditions allow, you will be able to climb the mountain on the pedestrian trails with snow spikes. Sentier des Pionniers is unmissable: the viewpoint when you cross Le Gros Vallon is breathtaking.
If you start at the cross-country skiing centre on Rang Saint-Julien, you’ll be carried away in a whole new decor. You can find 42 km of trails suited for various levels. Truly magical! We are particularly fond of leaving for longer expeditions. We can take breaks in nice little shelters along the network. Keep a sharp eye because you might be able to spot a moose in the area!
Picture : Mont-Sainte-Anne
Fatbike
Did you ever try a fatbike? It is a must, fun guaranteed! Fatbikes are basically mountain bikes equipped with large tires that allow you to wander on packed trails. What a fun way to go down traditional mountain bike trails La Germaine and La Boucle D’Or during winter!
Volunteers from Club cycliste Mont-Sainte-Anne also maintain many additional kilometers. Mythic summer bike trails such as La Cairn, La Spirale and La Coup de foudre are therefore accessible during winter. GIGANTIC crush on the part of Sentier du Moulin going by river Jean-Larose. This area really has a little something. Finish your day by admiring the sunset on the mountain from near the hydro-electric lines. You will be charmed for sure.
Picture : Abby Cooper
Join us outside!
Winter lasts a long time in Quebec but spending some time outside truly is the best way to enjoy it! And Mont-Sainte-Anne surely is a playground designated to that effect. Either alpine skiing, ski touring, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or riding a fatbike: pick one and come visit us this winter!
