According to industry experts, we can say: Yes, the 2024 snowmobile season has officially begun. At the time of writing, almost three-quarters of the network was open. The rest should follow quickly.
“As we speak, I would say 70% of the area is open to snowmobilers. Everything changed quickly this week, explained Denis Lavoie of Motoneiges.ca. I can say that things are a little more difficult in Montérégie and Estrie. But in the north it is open almost everywhere, with the exception of a few small, isolated places in certain regions such as Outaouais, on the Ontario border. Curiously, in Abitibi, several hiking trails are not yet open, such as the 83, which enters the Hautes Laurentides sector, or the 93, which enters the Chibougamau sector. Volunteers also worked on the path between Chibougamau and Lac Saint-Jean to open it as quickly as possible.”
The specialist explains that snowmobilers can drive.
“Snowmobiling is possible in all regions. Most of the paths are in good condition. However, as there will be a lot of traffic, we can expect the quality of the trails to deteriorate quickly, especially as we are in early season conditions. At this time I would ask people not to use waterways unless there is a marked path created by club volunteers. It is therefore important to pay attention to the on-site signage and the recommendations of the clubs. The climatic conditions we have had can make what seems safe not be safe. I don’t want snowmobilers to end up in the statistics, if you can put it that way.”
It's time for him to plan future long hikes. “Right now, enthusiasts can start planning long hikes. Additionally, I would like to remind snowmobilers who complain about the trail conditions update that we work with volunteers who are busy early in the season. Everyone does their best.”
MICHEL GARNEAU
“When I look at the interactive map, I am happy about the positive development of the situation for the opening of routes,” explains Michel Garneau, director of special projects and external relations at the Fédération des Clubs de Motoneigistes du Québec. As for the places that are slow to open, I don't think I'm wrong at all when I say that we're just one snowfall away from those trails opening.
As we are at the beginning of the season, it is very important to always keep safety in mind during our first outings.
“I would say that security is a product of our personal choices. Everyone is responsible for their own safety, but also that of other users. As we have had a warm autumn and a rather mild start to winter, I advise people to be very careful around waterways. The beautiful white carpet we see on the surface of a lake can hide traps that can lead to unfortunate accidents.”
TRAILS ONLY
“I encourage snowmobilers to only use marked trails that are open. Club volunteers have the knowledge to check the thickness of the ice and know when it is safe. As soon as we stray, we take risks.”
Because snow is a natural insulator, it takes extreme cold like we've experienced recently for the ice to truly harden and become safe. “I don't want to be melodramatic, but I firmly believe that it is very dangerous to venture onto waterways at the moment without checking the thickness of the ice. It’s a bit like gambling with your life.”
He also reminds us that we must always be careful because the snowmobile can play tricks on us.
“You have to relearn your techniques. Snowmobiling can play nasty tricks on us. Because it doesn't have a key mechanical component like a gearbox to make it move, too often many people think they are experts after 30 meters. There are pitfalls such as ice on curves, crossing roads or even going down slopes that can be steep. It takes time to gain experience in the different situations that may arise.” Knowing the commitment of the volunteers, I have no doubt that the network will soon be in perfect condition and I hope that Mother Nature sends them the indispensable tool, snow.
From the top of this observation tower on Mont-Apica in the Laurentides Reserve you can enjoy a breathtaking panorama. Photo Julien Cabana
Respect at all times
To enjoy snowmobiling, certain important rules must be followed. First of all, you must always respect your boundaries. If you are a beginner, you certainly won't be able to follow snowmobilers who have decades of experience on trails. Therefore, it is very important that you travel in whatever way you think is the best situation. It will take several rides to fully master your snowmobile. Even when you feel safe, situations can happen that surprise you, like ice on a curve. If you are an experienced snowmobiler and want to take beginners with you, you should not force them to go too fast or they will want to follow you. You will experience stress and make mistakes, which can sometimes have serious consequences. It's about respect.