The Côte-Nord is a vast playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking trails are numerous and sometimes well hidden. Bénédicte and Julien, adopted North Shore residents, have created "Sentiers de la Côte," a website that brings together around fifty "hikes and boreal escapades" for all levels to discover on the North Shore. It's the perfect place to get information about the accessibility and difficulty level of a trail and to discover new ones.

Their project is still young, but Tourism North Shore is already a big fan. That's why we contacted them to find out about their favorite trails to explore this winter in the region. Here are their top 5 winter getaways, presented from west to east.

The Glacier Lake Loop Trail forms a loop of just over 7 km. This route can be shortened in winter by crossing the lake from one side to the other. Along the way, there is a magnificent viewpoint overlooking the lake, with the river in the background. It is one of the most beautiful natural lookouts on the North Shore and is accessible for a round trip of about 3 km from the parking lot.

Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Information:  www.sentiersdelacote.ca/tour-lac-glaciaire

A network of trails traverses the Mistassini Rock, offering various viewpoints along the coastline as well as from the heights. These paths are ideal for winter hiking and offer a loop and different variations, allowing hikers on snowshoes to adapt according to their level or preferences!

Difficulty Levels: Easy - Intermediate - Difficult (depending on the chosen route)

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The ideal season to undertake this 7 km round trip is during winter. At the top of the hill once stood a small chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Today, it's the panoramic view of the river, including the Pointe-Noire peninsula and the port facilities of Port-Cartier, that delights hikers.

Difficulty Level: Easy to Intermediate

Information:  www.sentiersdelacote.ca/chemin-de-marie

For the most daring, it's possible to embark on the magnificent loop of La Taïga, the most demanding trail offered at Station Gallix. This loop totals 10.6 km and passes through the trail at the foot of the Ice Palace. The terrain is as varied as it is challenging, with some sections traversing rocky scree, riverbeds, or hillsides. La Taïga is undoubtedly one of the best-kept secrets of the region.

Difficulty Level: Very Difficult - Expert

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Short trail (1 km) that becomes rather steep halfway. In winter, the stairs may be icy and slippery. However, the final viewpoint, at the foot of the large waterfall, is worth it! The sight of the frozen waterfall and the large ice wall on the opposite face is a magnificent reward.

Difficulty Level: Easy to Intermediate

Information:  www.sentiersdelacote.ca/chutes-manitou