Our experiences
OUR EXPERIENCES
Backcountry skiing
HAUTE-GASPÉSIE REGION
A real treasure of Eastern Canada for fans of backcountry skiing!
Backcountry skiers, embrace the wild spirit of the Chic-Chocs, gaze upon the endless St. Lawrence River! This is what Haute-Gaspésie offers: a unique experience between mountains and sea.
Haute‑Gaspésie is a backcountry skier’s dream: wild Chic‑Chocs ridges, vast powderfields and sweeping views of the St. Lawrence. Whether you go with a guide or on your own, as a beginner or seasoned rider, you’ll find unforgettable terrain — mature forests, open alpine bowls and long powder descents.
Why go to Haute‑Gaspésie
Unique setting — Discover 25 peaks rising above 1,000 m with breathtaking panoramas and unforgettable powder descents — adventure awaits.
Terrain variety — forests, alpine snowfields and long descents for every skill level.
True backcountry — expect approaches from 5 minutes to 3 hours. There are no ski lifts here—nature awaits you, wild and magnificent. But rest assured, every climb uphill is rewarded with memorable descents!
Six public sectors where you can ski freely (or almost)!
The ski areas of Parc national de la Gaspésie and Réserve faunique des Chic-Chocs are reached by car then an approach on skins; plan for variable travel times and conditions. Please note that you must hold an access permit to engage in activities in the Parc national de la Gaspésie.
Check out these public-sector ski areas. They’re all great!
1.Mont Ernest-Laforce backcountry area – Parc national de la Gaspésie
2.Mont Albert authorized backcountry areas – Parc national de la Gaspésie
3.Mines Madeleine sector – Réserve faunique des Chic-Chocs
4.Champ-de-Mars and Blanche-Lamontagne mountains sector – Réserve faunique des Chic-Chocs
5.Mont Hog’s Back sector – Réserve faunique des Chic-Chocs
6.Mont Vallières-de-Saint-Réal sector – Réserve faunique des Chic-Chocs
Avalanche Québec provides a powerful planning tool with geolocation and detailed information on backcountry ski areas throughout the region. Available as a mobile app – Ski Haute-Gaspésie – this resource helps you explore safely and responsibly. Be sure to use it before heading out into the backcountry!
Two sectors affiliated with the Quebec Federation of Mountaineering and Climbing (FQME)
- Marsoui community sector
Marsoui community sector — seaside access, two sectors and 10+ slopes for mixed abilities. - Mont Lyall sector
Alpine terrain with a 330 m vertical, large snowfields and outstanding glades for intermediate to expert skiers.Buy daily or seasonal FQME membership online to use these sectors.
SAFETY ADVICE TO FOLLOW BEFORE VENTURING INTO THE BACKCOUNTRY:- Consult Avalanche Québec’s bulletin
- Check weather and plan your itinerary accordingly
- Use the Ski Haute‑Gaspésie app for maps and area details
- Consider hiring a qualified mountain guide.
QUICK PRACTICAL TIPS
- Pack standard avalanche safety kit (transceiver, shovel, probe) and know how to use it.
- Share your plan and estimated return time with someone onshore.
- Start early: weather and light change fast in alpine settings.
- Respect seasonal closures and signage in parks and reserves.
Guided and Private Options
Cap Castor
Cap Castor offers guided backcountry skiing in Gaspésie. Discover 30 seaside runs in our private domain or chase breathtaking lines in the Parc national de la Gaspésie’s majestic peaks. With passionate guides and a four-season summit chalet, every adventure promises an unforgettable Gaspesian experience.
Coopérative de plein-air RAC
Coop RAC organizes guided ski outings and snowmobile‑assisted access to privately managed, community‑operated sectors within the Rivière‑à‑Claude valley. This locally driven initiative emphasizes high‑quality terrain and a culture of sharing. On‑site lodging is available.
Le Couloir
Le Couloir is a collective of backcountry professionals specializing in guided backcountry skiing, avalanche and mountain‑safety training, remote‑area transport, and forestry services. With business permits for Parc national de la Gaspésie, Réserve faunique des Chic-Chocs and adjacent private coastal land, Le Couloir can help you make the most of your winter stay in Gaspésie.
Le Ski Shack
Friendly, lively and all-inclusive: The Ski Shack offers guided off-piste ski trips, including accommodation, meals and training, for all skill levels. A unique experience between mountains and sea, where a passion for skiing and good times come together.
Ski Chic-Chocs
Set out with Ski Chic-Chocs to explore Parc national de la Gaspésie and the vast slopes of the Réserve faunique des Chic-Chocs in the Mines Madeleine sector. Enjoy memorable outings in the heart of nature, with magnificent mountains as your backdrop.
La Vallée Taconique
High above Mont-Saint-Pierre, Vallée Taconique is a playground for thrill-seekers. With motorized lifts, several ski sectors and slopes for all skill levels, every descent delivers a shot of adrenaline and breathtaking scenery.
Vertigo
In the heart of Parc national de la Gaspésie, Vertigo-Aventures welcomes you for a 3- to 5-day adventure in the breathtaking Mont Paul area. In a group of 5 to 7 advanced skiers, you’ll be transported, accommodated in a cozy yurt and then guided across terrain that is remote and secluded—challenging yet enchanting.