Itinerary and tips for a long winter weekend at the Massif du Sud

Winter in the Chaudière-Appalaches takes on a whole new dimension at Le Massif du Sud. Renowned for its generous snowfall and the rugged beauty of its landscapes, this mountainous territory just 1 hour 30 minutes from Quebec City and just over 3 hours 30 minutes from Montreal is a veritable paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

With its snow-covered forests, panoramic peaks and perfectly groomed trails, Le Massif du Sud is a must-see destination for an active winter getaway. Cross-country skiing, hiking, downhill skiing and fat-biking on snow: the possibilities are as varied as they are stimulating.

@chloe.ferrari shares her itinerary and tips for preparing your adventure!

Cross-country skiing – Track C

We arrived at the park at around 2.30pm; by the time we had passed through reception, collected the keys and taken possession of our hut, it was well into the afternoon before nightfall. So we opted for a short loop of cross-country skiing to stretch our legs and make the most of the last few hours of daylight.

The Parc du Massif du Sud‘s Nordic network is renowned for the quality of its maintenance and the diversity of its landscapes. We chose trail C, a 4.5 km route, ideal for a first immersion. The route winds through the snow-covered forest, alternating between flowing sections and gradual climbs that gently warm the muscles.

At the halfway point, you’ll want to stop off at the refuge du Milieu. A few minutes in the shelter, time for a snack and to appreciate the calm, before starting the descent back to the start. The fir trees are laden with snow, and the hushed silence of the forest creates an almost unreal atmosphere.

Distance: 4 km
Level: intermediate
Duration: approx. 1 hour with break

The Parc du Massif du Sud‘s Nordic network comprises 24 km of regularly marked and maintained trails, guaranteeing excellent conditions throughout the season. This variety of routes makes it easy to adapt your outing according to the time you arrive, your energy level or the level of experience you’re looking for.

If you have more time, the combination of trails C and D offers a more complete outing, with a good balance between rolling sections and steady climbs. More experienced skiers can head for the Base Camp via trail F, a more demanding route that promises a challenge worthy of the scenery.

Overnight at the L’Éclipse des Voyageurs refuge

At the end of the day, we return directly to our L’Éclipse des Voyageurs ready-to-camp by cross-country ski, a particularly welcome advantage after an outing on the trails. Accessible on skis, snowshoes or on foot depending on the conditions, this hut, located around 900 metres from the car park, is nestled in the middle of the forest and can accommodate 2 to 4 people, making it an ideal option for a couple, a small family or a small group of friends.

Before settling in for the evening, we stop off at Pavillon Desjardins to take advantage of the showers, a much-appreciated amenity after an active day in the great outdoors. Back at the hut, we lit the wood stove and quietly prepared dinner as night fell in the forest. That evening, the menu was simple and convivial: a candlelit raclette, perfect after a few kilometers of skiing.

The interior is warm and functional, with all the essentials for cooking and spending a cosy evening in nature.

Tour of Mont Saint-Magloire

The next morning, after a coffee and a bowl of oatmeal at the refuge, we set off on a day’s hike: Mont Saint-Magloire, one of the emblematic routes of the Parc du Massif du Sud, and above all the highest peak in the Chaudière-Appalaches region (915m).

Distance: 13.9 km
Difference in altitude: 641 m
Duration: approx. 6 hours
Time limit for departure: 9.30 a.m.

This is a demanding hike, particularly in winter. Depending on conditions and traffic, the trail can be well trodden… or much less so, which considerably increases the effort required. The climb is sustained and physically challenging, but it is still accessible to well-prepared intermediate hikers.

The route passes through a superb mixed forest before reaching clear views of the surrounding mountains. At the summit, a 63-foot panoramic observation tower offers an impressive view that rewards every meter climbed. Right next to the summit is a refuge where you can warm up and take a well-deserved break before starting your descent by the same route.

Half-day alternative: Mont Chocolat

Mont Chocolat is an excellent alternative for those looking for a shorter outing or to conserve energy for another activity.

Distance: approx. 4 km round trip
Difference in altitude: around 200 m
Duration: 1 h 30 to 2 hours

More accessible, this trail leads quickly to a pretty viewpoint and allows you to enjoy the park without spending all day on it. An ideal alternative for adapting the itinerary to suit the energy of the moment or the weather conditions.

Overnight in the chalet at Esker Nature

After our hike, we headed for Esker Nature, located about 25 minutes from the Parc du Massif du Sud, to spend the next two nights in a chalet that can accommodate up to 6 people.

Our friends Inès and Maël are joining us for the weekend, which makes for an even more festive and convivial atmosphere. After two busy days, the warmth of the chalet and the comfort of its facilities, including access to a spa and sauna (not private, but very nice to relax in), are particularly appreciated. Not forgetting the outdoor fire for relaxing under the stars!

It’s impossible to stay in the region without taking advantage of the Massif du Sud ski resort, renowned for its abundant natural snow cover and friendly atmosphere. With over thirty runs, the resort offers a varied terrain that will appeal to intermediate skiers and glade enthusiasts alike. The descents offer magnificent views of the Appalachians, and the snow is often light thanks to the altitude.

The morning was very overcast, with little visibility of the peaks, but that didn’t stop us from enjoying the slopes and the peaceful atmosphere of the resort. After lunch, the clouds lifted, revealing a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains – a magical moment that made the day even more memorable.

Après-ski at the Microbrasserie de Bellechasse

For après-ski, we then headed to the Pub de la Contrée, a microbrewery located 10 minutes from the resort. It’s the perfect place to relax with friends after a day on the slopes, sampling local beers and enjoying a comforting nacho in a warm, authentic atmosphere, before heading back to our chalet.

On our last day, the sun finally came out, giving us a good view of the snow-covered landscape. We took the opportunity to try our hand at hockey for the first time, before trying out the slides just opposite our chalet at Esker Nature.

After leaving the chalet, we head to the park for one last activity: fatbike riding. The bike trails (left) are the same as the cross-country ski trails (right). We opted for track E, the most difficult, which is 3.3 km long. It wasn’t easy, especially uphill, but it was great fun.

The bikes with oversized tyres can be hired directly from the park: $35 for 3 hours or $70 for 6 hours, making them a low-cost alternative to hiking or cross-country skiing for exploring the park.

Distance: 3.3 km (E trail)
Duration: approx. 2h30
Level: intermediate (trail E is the most difficult)