- This article was written by Charles St-Louis, Director of Outdoor Climbing Sites for the Fédération québécoise de la montagne et de l'escalade (FQME).
I'm putting on my hat (or helmet, in this case) as Director of Outdoor Climbing Sites for the Fédération québécoise de montagne et de l'escalade (FQME) to share with you a list of my favorite sites.
For the cause, I'd like to point you in the direction of less crowded sites where the atmosphere meets the pleasure of climbing icy walls. In winter, beyond the technical challenges, the unique and enchanting scenery weighs heavily in the balance when it comes to choosing a destination.
When planning your outing, be sure to respect your limits and choose according to your level. Ice climbing is a very safe sport if you know the techniques and how to read the ice conditions.
A number of waterfalls scattered across the territory make this a prime destination for variety and a sense of peace in the forest! You'll catch the eyes and praise of other users curious to discover this practice. The site is in its early seasons, so show up with a spirit of discovery.
A tranquil site, perfect for cold days thanks to its orientation facing the warm winter sun. Routes of all levels will meet the challenges of all climbers! In addition to ice routes, several mixed routes can be tackled!
As the name suggests, this deep gorge offers a unique atmosphere! Several easy-to-moderate routes. Access to the site is via the Parc des Gorges de Coaticook. The routes have been artificially frozen to improve ice quality and extend the season.
I'm putting on my hat (or helmet, in this case) as Director of Outdoor Climbing Sites for the Fédération québécoise de montagne et de l'escalade (FQME) to share with you a list of my favorite sites.
For the cause, I'd like to point you in the direction of less crowded sites where the atmosphere meets the pleasure of climbing icy walls. In winter, beyond the technical challenges, the unique and enchanting scenery weighs heavily in the balance when it comes to choosing a destination.
When planning your outing, be sure to respect your limits and choose according to your level. Ice climbing is a very safe sport if you know the techniques and how to read the ice conditions.
1. Parc Récréoforestier in Mauricie
A number of waterfalls scattered across the territory make this a prime destination for variety and a sense of peace in the forest! You'll catch the eyes and praise of other users curious to discover this practice. The site is in its early seasons, so show up with a spirit of discovery.
2. Lac Sylvère in Lanaudière
A tranquil site, perfect for cold days thanks to its orientation facing the warm winter sun. Routes of all levels will meet the challenges of all climbers! In addition to ice routes, several mixed routes can be tackled!
3. Grotte de Percé in Gaspésie
An enchanting site sheltered from the elements. Percé in winter is under few people's radar. This site is accessible to beginner to intermediate levels. Bonus at the end of the day: a breathtaking view of Percé Rock from an angle that's rarely seen!
4. Coaticook Gorge in the Eastern Townships
As the name suggests, this deep gorge offers a unique atmosphere! Several easy-to-moderate routes. Access to the site is via the Parc des Gorges de Coaticook. The routes have been artificially frozen to improve ice quality and extend the season.
5. Magic Spot in Portneuf
It's all in the name - the place is magic! At the bottom of the Bras du Nord Valley, this site is sure to challenge you, whatever your level. We encourage you to carpool, as parking is limited.
End of season
The season is well under way, but there are still some great weeks left to visit the various ice climbing sectors. So get ready and get out there to enjoy winter! Regular Hot Poc are perfect for this kind of activity, as they fit nicely into your coat pocket while you wait or climb!
The FQME's mission is to develop sites and maintain access to them. With the growing popularity of different climbing disciplines, our presence is all the more important. Your contribution as a member of our network goes a long way towards developing climbing in Quebec.
Visit our website for more information on the following sites: Fédération québécoise de la montagne et de l'escalade
