48 Hours in Gaspé in Winter: Two Itineraries for Outdoor Enthusiasts!
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Winter in Gaspé is an invitation to play outdoors amidst magnificent landscapes, nestled between the sea and mountains. Whether you're a fan of hiking, skiing, fatbiking, or simply seeking fresh air, here are two perfect itineraries to make the most of 48 hours in this winter paradise.
Itinerary 1: Between Sea and Mountain
Day 1: Seaside Hiking
- Banc Trail, Forillon National Park – 4 km (round trip)
Begin your adventure with a hike in Forillon National Park, where the Banc Trail follows the coast, offering breathtaking views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the magnificent cliffs of Cap-bon-ami, and the Cap-des-Rosiers lighthouse. In winter, the contrast between the pristine snow and the deep blue sea creates a spectacular backdrop. - Penouille Trail – 4 km (round trip)
Continue your day by exploring the Penouille Trail, a Nordic-looking peninsula where the boreal forest meets the snowy beach. It's ideal for a contemplative walk or a snowshoeing excursion.
Day 2: Mont-Béchervaise, Guaranteed Mountain Fun
- Downhill Skiing or Alpine Touring
Located just 5 minutes from downtown, Mont-Béchervaise is a must-visit for ski enthusiasts. With its varied slopes and stunning bay views, it's the perfect spot for a morning at altitude. Equipment rental is also available on-site for both downhill skiing and alpine touring.
- Tubing
For an extra dose of fun, end your day by sliding down the slopes on a tube! This activity is accessible to everyone and guarantees laughter and memorable moments.
Itinerary 2: Nordic Discovery and the Great Outdoors
Day 1: Cross-Country Skiing in the Forest
- Les Éclairs de Gaspé Cross-Country Ski Club
Rent your equipment and embark on an adventure on the snowy trails of the Les Éclairs Cross-Country Ski Club. Several options are available, with routes ranging from 1.1 km to 12.5 km, perfect for all skill levels.
- Adventure in Forillon National Park
If you have your own equipment, start your journey at L’Anse-au-Griffon and take the La Vallée trail, before returning via the Le Portage trail (approximately 10 km). A stop at the warm and welcoming Le Répit Nord chalet is ideal for a well-deserved break.
Day 2: Fatbiking and Winter Beach
- Fatbike Rental
For a unique winter experience, rent a fatbike from Nolin Vélo and hit the snowy trails. This accessible activity offers a new way to explore the Gaspé landscapes. You can also take the winter-maintained bike path to Haldimand Beach, a beautiful route between forest and sea. - Walk on Haldimand Beach
There's nothing quite like a stroll on Haldimand Beach to gently conclude your stay. In winter, the offshore wind and the vastness of the coastline create a peaceful and rejuvenating atmosphere. - And if you're lucky...
When conditions allow, the rivers and Gaspé Bay transform into spectacular natural ice rinks.
Where to Eat and Stay in Gaspé?
After a full day exploring Gaspé's winter wonders, there's nothing better than a comforting meal and cozy accommodation to recharge your batteries. To discover the best options tailored to your desires, check out our suggestions here:
Gaspé: A Sustainable Destination
Sustainable development at the heart of our destination
Escale Gaspé is committed to making sustainable development a central and cross-cutting element of its strategic planning. It aligns with Cruise the Saint Lawrence's Sustainable Development Strategy and shares its vision for the Saint Lawrence destination.
The cruise industry contributes to the socio-economic vitality of Quebec and its regions, while also participating in the preservation and regeneration of ecosystems. The Saint Lawrence destination offers a positive-impact, human, and sustainable experience, building bridges between visitors and host communities, maritime, tourism, and scientific stakeholders.
Escale Gaspé has taken action in recent years regarding sustainable tourism development. It has equipped its cruise terminal with waste sorting stations and a boutique showcasing local products. It also broadcasts educational content on sustainable and responsible tourism for cruise passengers via a screen located in its terminal.
The organization also launched its very first stakeholder consultation forum in spring 2025, regularly participates in the sustainable tourism best practices sharing community 'Les Courants Durables du Saint-Laurent', and is involved in a social acceptability campaign led by Cruise the Saint Lawrence.
Destination Gaspé's brand new, optimized website also helps stimulate the local economy and enhance the tourism offering by improving the visibility and attractiveness of local businesses. It provides a modern and engaging showcase on a centralized platform, while integrating rich content related to local stories and the region's unique cultural events.
