Every snowmobile enthusiast has only one question on their mind: Where is the snow? Very smart who predicts his arrival and builds the network of snowmobile trails in Quebec.
“Personally, I have never seen anything like this, which means that the whole of Quebec, with the exception of Monts-Valin, is completely paralyzed,” explains the general director of the Fédération des Clubs de Snowmobilers of Quebec, Stéphane Desroches.
“As I speak to you, the news is not very encouraging that we are going to get abundant snowfall soon. Normally at this time of year snowmobilers can be in the north of Gaspésie, in the Hautes-Laurentides, in Haute-Mauricie or even in the Charlevoix mountains. Currently, several operators who had reservations for groups of French tourists are having to cancel these stays. »
Despite this desperate situation, the Director General maintains morale.
“It's certainly not pleasant, but you have to remember that last year the season dragged on until January 20th. Snowmobile enthusiasts have nothing to fear. The clubs are ready to start operations. The machines are ready for use and once the snow comes, the season will start quickly. Club volunteers are also big snowmobile enthusiasts. They can't wait to open their trails. »
The same speech everywhere
For Denis Lavoie, the big boss of Motoneiges.ca, who is responsible for publishing the track conditions of several clubs in Quebec, the current start to the season is not easy to live with.
“It’s simple, I’ve never seen anything like it,” says the specialist. Usually around the end of October in Bas-Saint-Laurent we feel like winter is approaching. In November, ice forms and small snowfalls allow clubs to prepare the pitch. But none of that is happening this season.
“The trails are currently only open in Monts-Valin. As far as I know, the conditions are difficult. Yes, there was snow, but also rain, which contributed to a layer of ice forming on the paths.
“Based on what I see in the forecast, there will be no significant amount of snow in the region until January 10th. From there, the clubs can perhaps start preparing the trails. »
For him, one situation illustrates very well the state of affairs regarding hiking trails and the possibility of horse riding.
“For me it means everything when you can't even ride the trails in the Chapais region at the end of December. This region is really in the north.
“We must therefore hope that the situation recovers as quickly as possible and that Mother Nature cooperates. »
For several years, experts have found that if the season starts later, it extends into spring.
“It's our consolation prize, if you can put it like that. »
Agreement between the FCMQ and a ZEC
Members of the Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (FCMQ) who have a right of entry for the 2023-2024 season can ride their snowmobile on the marked and connected trails of the ZEC Martin-Valin, maintained by the Club Caribou-Conscrits, without you have To and pay an additional transit fee. However, if you wish to travel outside of these routes, you must register and pay the requested price. FCMQ leaders hope that discussions with Zecs Quebec will lead to similar agreements for all ZECs in Quebec.