Winter Activities to try to break the routine

Adventurous and sporty at heart, craving the outdoors and new discoveries to enjoy alone or with others this winter? Between crisp snow, frozen landscapes and shared challenges, the cold season becomes the perfect playground for creating unforgettable memories. NOPé has selected five original activities to add to your calendar, designed to step outside your comfort zone and experience winter to the fullest, a little, a lot, intensely.

“Moderately Intense” Outdoor Activities

Is this your first date and you’d like to share your love of sports and the outdoors without scaring your guest with something too intense? Or perhaps you’re looking for an original couples’ or friends’ activity that lets you explore beyond the usual paths? These moderately intense outings promise hours of enjoyment.

Dog Sledding

Experience an activity that dates back centuries and was once used by Indigenous peoples for transportation and hunting. Dog sledding takes you along stunning snow-covered trails and offers a unique way to discover a mode of travel rich in history. For those eager to take the adventure further, some experiences even allow you to learn how to prepare the team and drive your own sled.

To help with your search, these two directories are great references.

• In Québec: Bonjour Québec
• In Ontario: Destination Ontario

Your NOPé essentials for this activity : Hood and Toque  

Discover Ice Fishing

You don’t need to be an avid angler to enjoy fishing on frozen lakes and rivers. Ice fishing is a simple activity that invites you to slow down, enjoy a beautiful winter day and reconnect as a couple, taking time to talk freely and dream about future plans. A contemplative yet invigorating experience that pairs perfectly with a cozy inn getaway.

Many companies offer ice fishing experiences across Québec and Ontario. These directories will help guide your search.

• In Québec: Aventure Plein Air
• In Ontario: Destination Ontario

Your NOPé essentials for this activity : Hood, Overhood, Toque and Neck Warmers

Discover a new way to experience the mountains with ski touring 

Ranging from moderate to intense depending on your abilities and preferences, backcountry skiing offers a different winter experience, far from crowds and ski lifts. You can adjust the effort to your liking with a short or long forest ascent, followed by a descent on groomed trails or fresh powder. A shared challenge that delivers a rewarding sense of accomplishment, for two or with others.

Many ski resorts offer equipment rentals and introductory sessions. Here are a few resources and destinations to help guide your choice.

• In Québec: Québec Cité, Espaces
• In Ontario: Northern Ontario

Your NOPé essentials for this activity : Hood, Fleece Cap, Trapper Cap, Neck Warmer

“Full-Intensity” outdoor activities for the bold and fearless

Looking for an original, athletic winter activity to experience with your significant other or your friends? These two unique outings will push you beyond your comfort zone and deliver moments of high intensity.

Ice Canoeing on the frozen river

Set off on a one-of-a-kind adventure on the icy waters of the St. Lawrence River. Ice canoeing promises hours of fun and self-challenge. Often described as a world-unique activity, it is deeply rooted in Québec’s cultural heritage.

Visit the Canot à glace Expérience website to learn more and book your adventure with experienced guides.

Your NOPé essentials for this activity : Overhood (over the helmet during the activity) and Neck Warmer

Ice Canyoning for climbing enthusiasts

Discover the magical frozen landscape of the Chute Jean-Larose on a guided ice canyoning adventure, departing from Mont-Sainte-Anne. After two practice descents of about 20 metres, you’ll safely descend the 41-metre frozen waterfall, roped in and wearing crampons.

More physically accessible than ice climbing, ice canyoning requires no prior experience. The activity is done dry, on ice, and is perfectly suited to winter outdoor enthusiasts. An ideal way to share a spectacular and bonding experience as a couple or with friends. Find all the details at Canyoning Québec.

Your NOPé essentials for this activity : Overhood (over the helmet during the activity), Toque and Neck Warmer

Your essentials for a winter outing for two or with others

Whether you prefer to embrace winter at a relaxed pace or seek adrenaline-filled adventures, these frosty pleasures offer the perfect opportunity to slow down, challenge yourselves, and share meaningful moments.

To fully enjoy the experience, regardless of the activity’s intensity, the right gear makes all the difference. Discover the NOPé essentials and choose accessories designed for comfort, protection, and freedom of movement, so the cold remains part of the scenery… not a barrier to your winter adventures.

Browse our blog for more winter activity ideas to enjoy as a couple or with your friends. Don’t miss our latest article: Fatbiking: Tips for a Successful Ride

📸 Photo credit: @alexeroot