I'm certainly not the only one who, every year when summer arrives, promises to make the most of it. I make a list of summer activities to do during the holidays or on weekends. Then the summer advances, we are busy… and now, we are already at the beginning of August!
There are so many great outdoor activities to do in Quebec, it's hard to do them all. Whether with family, friends or alone, there is something for everyone. To help you make the most of the last hot weeks of the year, I offer ideas for activities that will appeal to active people and those looking for a little adrenaline!
Here are 8 activities to try before the end of the summer to move outside:
1. Hiking
The advantage of hiking is that no matter what region you are in, there is a good chance that you have access to beautiful forest trails nearby. This inexpensive activity is ideal for getting some fresh air and working out your cardio.
Whether you are a beginner or advanced, you will find a trail suited to your level. For those less used to it, check out our 5 tips for a good start to hiking.
Find more 200 hiking trails offered by SÉPAQ, in National Parks, Wildlife Reserves and Tourist Centers of Quebec.
2. Outdoor climbing
For those who like heights, outdoor rock climbing is an interesting physical activity to work the whole body and to admire wonderful landscapes!
Passion for climbing offers outdoor climbing courses for different levels in the regions of Quebec, Charlevoix, Mauricie and Bas-St-Laurent. To find places to do this activity in other regions, check out Adventure Quebec.
3. Via ferrata
In the same theme as outdoor climbing, the Via Ferratas are routes with a mixture of climbing and hiking. Crossing rock faces in the most beautiful places of the province is a good challenge that will give you thrills!
See all the Via Ferratas routes in Quebec here.
4. Path in the trees
If you are not sure if you want to start climbing or Via Ferrata, start by taming the heights with the courses in the trees. This leisure sport is fun for both children and the adults. You will cross different installations in height in the trees in complete safety. Several treetop adventure parks also offer zip lines, allowing you to glide down a steel cable.
Find all the trails in the trees of Quebec here.
Are you more of a nautical activity type? The next ideas are for you!
5. Rafting
We are lucky because in Quebec, there are many rivers where it is possible to go on a rafting expedition. The boats generally accommodate 6 to 8 people including a guide; it is therefore an ideal activity for an outing with friends or family. If you are not afraid to get wet, it is also an experience that will make you live strong emotions!
See where to go rafting here.
6. SUP (stand-up paddling)
SUP, or also called paddle boarding, is an increasingly popular water sport. For those looking for an activity without too much adrenaline, it is possible to do SUP on lakes, rivers and seas all over Quebec. Whether sitting, kneeling or standing, SUP is accessible to everyone. Some even practice yoga on this board!
See the places to go SUP here.
SUP Yoga classes to Montreal.
7. Canoe Kayak
For a more classic activity, canoeing and kayaking are essential! It is possible to rent these boats at many places in the province, you will have no shortage of choices! You can also choose between a quieter descent or a descent with rapids, for more action. It's a great physical activity for working your upper body, especially your arms.
For river kayaking, it's here.
For canoeing, it is here.
8. Kite Surfing
For an activity that is out of the ordinary and that will definitely work all the muscles in your body, opt for kite surfing! It's a bit more difficult sport, which involves having your feet tied on a board while being pulled by a kite. It is possible to take kite surfing lessons in Saguenay, Îles-de-la-Madeleine and Oka.
Kite surf lessons here.
So if you have a day off in the next few weeks, now is the time to tick one more activity off your list. This is a great opportunity to get out of your comfort zone and try a new sport, or simply take the time to move around doing a hobby you enjoy. I challenge you to choose at least one activity and do it by the end of the summer!
Text by Jade Babin Ferlatte
There are also kitesurfing lessons that are given in Carleton-sur-Mer, in the Gaspé! http://kite-carletonsurmer.com/
Also in Lac-St-Jean: http://progressionkite.com/
And in Quebec and Charlevoix: https://kitesurfquebec.com/
Good suggestion!
Hello,
The activity ideas are very interesting. Only one downside, the photo of the couple with children on paddle boards and no one is wearing a life jacket.
It is important to promote good safety habits when practicing activities.