Recognized as one of Quebec’s top snowmobile destinations, the Bas-Saint-Laurent region has regained its cruising speed and now offers enthusiasts excellent piste conditions.
“Like everywhere in Quebec, we had a difficult and slow start to the season, but here we came back to meet snowmobiler expectations,” explained Motoneiges.ca’s Denis Lavoie, who lives in the region. We had the same problems with the weather, including the strong wind that had made the trails impassable in several places, so many fallen trees. »
“Finally during the Open House weekend in mid-January we were able to completely restore our trail network. After that we had fairly regular snowfalls. We were not significantly affected by the mild periods. It is certain that there is less snow in the sections closer to the river, but once you go to higher areas the snow conditions are very nice. Last weekend I covered more than 300 kilometers on the trails. After mechanical problems with its snow groomers, the Rimouski Club has started to prepare the trails again, offering excellent conditions for snowmobilers. »
After riding in the eastern half of the region, this specialist can get an idea of the condition of the trails.
“I have ridden the trails in the lower part of the region and in the mountains and I can say that the conditions vary from good to very good. Really we are ready. »
A NORMAL SEASON
According to the expert, the current season is within the normal range for the region.
“It is not unusual that in the first half of January the track conditions are normal or some tracks are completely closed. In good years we could travel on trails during the holiday season. However, I’d say it’s been a bit more difficult in the last five or six years. The season is really slowly calming down. »
Significant snow accumulation in winter can lengthen the season.
“We usually have very good seasons in terms of snow accumulation. If we don’t have too long mild periods, the season can drag on until early April. If all goes well, the clubs will operate for a period of 12 to 14 weeks. »
To find out all about what snowmobilers have to offer, be it trails, circuits, services, accommodation and restaurants, you can go to the website: bassaintlaurent.ca and visit the “Snowmobiles” tab.
IN SUMMARY
AMERICAN RETURN
After several seasons of absence due to the pandemic, American snowmobilers are back on Quebec’s trails. This was confirmed by Louis Chamberland of Tourisme Chaudière-Appalaches, the region most commonly used as an entry point for snowmobilers from Uncle Sam’s country, mentioning that the advertising campaign for the practice of snowmobiling in Quebec had returned to our neighbors South. His organization has received several requests for trail maps. The final report on the sale of access rights will provide an accurate picture of the return of these enthusiasts. At the Fédération des Clubs de Motoneigistes du Québec, we have also been told that there are many calls from the United States.
KEEP YOUR RIGHTS
During his interview with us, Denis Lavoie reminded snowmobilers that the trails carry traffic in both directions. He asks snowmobilers to keep to the right at all times. According to him, too many people neglect this very important factor that can lead to dangerous situations. He’s had a few this winter.
STAY INDOORS THE PATH
All specialists in this field agree that when crossing a field, snowmobilers must stay on the trails between the red markers. The property owners have granted a right of way for a certain corridor. Access rights must not be jeopardized, which unfortunately often leads to trail closures.
