The Best Winter Activities for Awakening the Adventurer in You

Are you the type who loves to leave your comfortable nest and head out on a great outdoor adventure?

With its majestic mountains, its grandiose parks and more than 100 km of trails to explore, Brome-Missisquoi and the Haute-Yamaska really stand out for outdoors sports enthusiasts who hope to take advantage of the joys of winter!

EXPLORE THE REGION ON SNOWSHOES

Located in Shefford, the Parc des Montagnards is a true delight for snowshoe amateurs. The intermediate level trails cover a total of 5 kilometres and require more of a physical effort than the easier ones on even terrain. Once you’ve reached the top, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved pause as you admire the views overlooking Brome Lake and the Green Mountains.

For more than 40 years now, volunteer nature enthusiasts have been maintaining the Parc d’environnement naturel de Sutton (P.E.N.S.) for its more than 40,000 yearly hikers. To identify which trail is ideal for your snowshoe outing, just consult their website or their Facebook page where you’ll find the trail conditions and routes suggested for your level and mood of the moment.

TWO MOUNTAINS THAT WILL CONQUER THE COLDEST HEARTS

Are you a ski touring adept? Head up the mountain at Bromont, montagne d’expériences or Mount Sutton, two exceptional mountains that really know how to bring together fun and exercise! Four ski touring trails on three sides of the mountain welcome you in Bromont, day or night, thanks to their illuminated domain. As for Mount Sutton, your uphill skiing adventure starts at the main ski chalet (400 m) as you head out via the on-trail initiation circuit or up through the woods on a trail designed for more experienced skiers.

GIVE YOUR LEGS A GOOD WORK OUT BY RIDING A FAT BIKE

The Parc de la Yamaska has developed a great new venue for fat bike, snowshoe and hiking enthusiasts. The long loop around the Choinière Reservoir is open and groomed this winter. And, if you haven’t yet bought your own bike with oversized tires, you’ll be glad to know that they have rentals available for both adults and kids. Plus, it’s free for 17-year-olds and younger!

All around the Massif de Bromont you’ll find mounts Oak, Gale and Brome’s 3 networks of trails grouped together to become a true paradise for fat bikes (bicycles with oversized tires). With more than 35 kilometres of mostly mechanically groomed trails, there are plenty of choices for novices as much as for more experienced cyclists! Once you’ve completed your circuit, I invite you to drop by Pittstop Vélo Café for a healthy meal and a good cup of coffee. Your body will thank you for the amazing day you offered yourself!

TRY AN OVERNIGHT STAY IN A SHELTER INSTEAD OF A HOTEL ROOM  

Your destination? Au Diable Vert, in Glen Sutton, for an unforgettable stay with an incredible view of the Sutton, Owl’s Head and Jay Peak mountains. For a couple’s getaway or for those looking for a true peaceful place, Pod shelters are perfect for you! And dogs are welcome here!

Two types of accommodations are available at the Parc de la Yamaska this winter: their rustic camp, Le Pionnier, or their Nature cabins which can welcome up to 4 guests. These shelters are nestled near the snowshoe and Nordic skiing trails. On the site you’ll discover many activities such as fat bike evening outings using your headlamps or ice fishing!

VISITING THE TOWNSHIPS BREWERS

How would you like to savour a pint of beer in the warmth of one of our region’s award-winning microbreweries? Many of these are located only a few minutes away from our parks and mountains. Download the Brasseurs des Cantons map to find the nearest one to your winter getaway. Cheers!

The only thing that’s left for you to do is to dress warmly and head out to our region with its myriads of winter wonders!