Crosscountry Skiing in Shawinigan
By France St-Amant
According to Nancy Déziel, a resident of Shawinigan and avid cross-country skier, there’s no reason not to step outside during the winter season.
So, get out your thermal clothes, wax your skis and show off your cross-country skills, whether they’re basic or of high level. Cross-country skiing is gaining in popularity and Shawinigan offers a huge accessible terrain to discover or rediscover this winter sport.
You must stop at La Mauricie National Park to spend the day and enjoy the spectacular view of the frozen waterfalls or the snow-covered trees.
Suggestions for free slopes if you want to stretch your legs near the downtown area:
- Avenue Jean-Duchesne trail (10 km, easy). Starting point: here.
- Parc de la Rivière Shawinigan trails (5 km, easy). Starting point: here.
- Station de plein-air Val-Mauricie trails – Parc de l’Île Melville (15 km, varying levels) Starting point at Parc de l’Île Melville – Secteur des Chutes.
- To know the slopes’ conditions, click here.
Activity available weather permitting.
Suggestions if you want to experience nature or adventure.
- La Mauricie National Park trails (80 km, varying levels) For more information on trail conditions, click here.
- Ski du Rocher trails – Golf Grand-Mère (15 km, varying levels). Trail conditions available on website. Starting point at the Golf Grand-Mère parking lot.
- Labyrinthe Coureur des Bois trails (1.5 km easy) Skating
Do not hesitate to stop by 2800 du Parc or Dépanneur du Parc to rent skis. You can even take the opportunity to take a break at the Café-Bistro 2800.
If you want to extend your stay, book accommodation or a restaurant. In Shawi, there’s something for everyone!