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Ice canoeing is more than just a sport; it’s a way to keep Québec’s heritage alive, a direct link to those who shaped the province of yesterday and today. Offering a peek into the past, as well as an adrenaline rush and breathtaking landscapes, this activity embodies the authentic spirit of Québec’s iconic winters. Whether you choose to row yourself through the ice or cheer on teams racing down the river, you’re taking part in a tradition that’s unique in the world. This winter, will you heed the call of the St. Lawrence and embark on an adventure?
The very first ice canoeist
When you read accounts from that era—and there are several, including one by Samuel de Champlain—you quickly realize that the canoeists of yesteryear were every bit as impressive as today’s athletes!
Long before the arrival of Europeans, Indigenous peoples travelled in bark canoes. These light and maneuverable boats were perfectly suited to Canadian rivers, which, with their numerous rapids, often meant travellers had to disembark and carry their canoes and luggage on foot. The small boats were reinforced with calfskin to withstand the ice when they were occasionally used in winter.
From the 1640s onward, however, settlers adopted the dugout canoe: a small boat carved from a tree trunk, which was sturdier for navigating the river’s frozen waters of the St. Lawrence. Then, starting in the 1670s, wooden winter canoes began being manufactured. These were still elongated and narrow in shape, but were built using French naval carpentry techniques and were significantly safer and more efficient on ice.
An ancient means of transportation connecting the city of Québec and Lévis
From the 17th to 19th centuries, ice canoeing was the preferred form of transportation in the winter between the city of Québec and Lévis, particularly when the weather prevented access to the ice bridge that would temporarily form between the two shores.
In 1863, more than 200 canoeists in Lévis were engaged in this essential trade, according to archivist Pierre G. Roy. Their work back then resembled today’s sport. They pulled their canoes across the shifting ice, jumped in to paddle in open water and then climbed out again to push onward—all in bitter cold, with unpredictable currents and ice floes that could be as sharp as razors.
It was a dangerous job. Practised by sailors and longshoremen, but also by farmers as a way to supplement their income during the winter, it required skill, strength and knowledge about the currents, tides and weather. Unfortunately, accidents were not uncommon and gave rise to some of Québec’s most chilling legends, including the tale of headless ghost Pitre Soulard.
The arrival of ferries and the early days of the Québec Winter Carnival
From the late 19th century to the early 20th century, the arrival of steam ferries and icebreakers put an end to the traditional canoeists’ trade. However, these boats didn’t disappear; they were simply redesigned!
At the first major Québec Winter Carnival, in 1894, an ice canoe race was held to showcase participants’ impressive skills. The event drew a host of spectators and was a clear success. It marked the start of what would become a unique annual tradition in the world, which continues to this day and attracts dozens of teams, some of which come from abroad.
Ice canoeing is now an extreme sport and has been recognized as part of Québec’s intangible cultural heritage since 2014. Modern ice canoes, which are made of fibreglass, carbon or Kevlar, bear little resemblance to the canoes of yesteryear, but the spirit behind the sport remains the same: strength, endurance, solidarity and a touch of craziness.
Winter races not to be missed
The Circuit québécois de canot à glace (in French only) represents more than 300 canoeists and helps organize seasonal races. Held between January to early March, the official 2026 circuit includes six races (in French only) spread across Québec, offering a comprehensive look at the river’s winter conditions and regional traditions.
During RikiFest l’Hivernal, this competitive circuit officially kicks off with the Défi des glaces de Rimouski (in French only), closely followed by the second (and certainly better-known) event, the Québec Winter Carnival. This is the most widely covered event in the media and one of the most historic. A VIP section is even available on the Traverse Québec-Lévis ferry, offering front-row seats for watching the race!
It’s followed up by several other races, including the Grande traversée (in French only), the Course Tigidou (in French only) and la Grande virée des canotières et canotiers (in French only). The Course de la banquise de Portneuf (in French only) closes the season, and the race winners are crowned during the Festival de la banquise.
Practical tips for getting started with ice canoeing
Intrigued by the history, impressed by canoeists’ prowess and hearing the call of the ice floes? You’re in luck: crossing the frozen St. Lawrence by canoe isn’t just for pros. It could be a unique activity on your next outing!
We recommend booking with a company that specializes in these types of guided tours, such as Canot à glace Expérience. Offering various introductory packages ranging from 60 to 90 minutes on the water, this company has made it its mission to help people discover the St. Lawrence River in the winter and make ice canoeing accessible through unique experiences rooted in Québec tradition.
In anticipation of a unique winter outing with them, here are a few of their tips to ensure that your first experience exceeds your expectations.
1. Dress warmly and in layers
- Opt for thermal underwear, an insulating layer and a windproof coat. Do you enjoy winter sports like cross-country skiing? The same types of clothing are perfectly suitable. Specialized equipment (life jackets, boots, cleats, mittens, etc.) will be provided by the company.
- Remember to bring a change of clothes (e.g. dry socks, an extra sweater and a second pair of gloves) so you’re more comfortable after the activity.
2. Follow the guides’ instructions carefully
- You’ll be accompanied at all times by experienced and passionate guides whose top priority is your safety. Before venturing out onto the St. Lawrence, they’ll show you how to paddle on the water, scooter on the ice and move efficiently in a synchronized way. Follow their instructions to get the most out of the activity.
3. Be prepared for physical (but manageable) exertion
- Ice canoeing takes a fair bit of energy. You’ll alternate between rowing, pushing the canoe and “scootering” on ice. A minimum level of physical fitness is therefore required, but you don’t need to be an athlete to join the crew. This activity is suitable for beginners and even families with children age 12 and over.
4. Be willing to adjust to variable conditions
- Every trip is different and is adapted to the fluctuations of the St. Lawrence. You may need to do more scootering if it’s very icy, or more rowing if it’s clearer. Your guides will adapt the route to the conditions of the day to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
5. Make the most of the adventure and savour this unique moment
- Be prepared to be amazed. Often described as magical, timeless and unforgettable, you’ll feel this experience as much in your body as in your heart. You will literally be in the middle of the Saint Lawrence River, on the ice, surrounded by stunning winter landscapes. Since the excursions often include a break (sometimes even with treats!), you’ll be able to catch your breath and soak up this rare privilege.
Titre
Discover even more unique winter activities
Québec winters are defined by their wide range of surprising activities that can only be enjoyed for just a few months of the year.
