Dreaming of gliding along snowy trails but never touched a snowmobile? Good news: it's one of the most accessible winter activities there is. With the right machine and a guide looking after you, most beginners feel comfortable within about ten minutes. Here is everything you need to know before your first ride.
In short
No experience is needed: automatic transmission, a full briefing and a certified guide. The driver must be at least 21 and hold a valid driver's licence. Expect to pay from $279 for 2 hours (25 to 35 km), starting December 19, 2026 in Duhamel.
Do you need experience to drive a snowmobile?
No. A modern snowmobile is simpler to drive than you might think: the transmission is automatic, so there are no gears to shift. Your right hand accelerates with a thumb throttle, and your left hand brakes with a lever. The rest is a matter of where you look and how you position your body.
At Biffrentals Aventure, no prior experience is required. Every outing starts with a full briefing: controls, the guide's signals, distances to keep and safety instructions. The driver simply needs to be at least 21 years old and hold a valid driver's licence.
How does a guided tour work?
- Welcome and gear. You receive a snowmobile suit and a helmet, then adjust your outfit.
- Briefing. The guide presents the machine, the basic moves and the trail rules.
- Getting the feel. A few minutes at low speed to get used to the throttle and the brakes.
- The ride. You follow the guide in single file on the federated FCMQ trails, with stops to rest and enjoy the scenery.
- The return. Back to the starting point at the Auberge Couleurs de France, in Duhamel.
The 5 tips that make all the difference for a beginner
- Look far ahead. A snowmobile goes where you look. Staring at the tips of your skis is the best way to take a turn badly.
- Lean into the turns. Shift your weight toward the inside of the curve; the machine turns much more easily.
- Keep your distance. Leave at least a few snowmobile lengths behind the one in front, because you brake more slowly on snow than on asphalt.
- Accelerate smoothly. A throttle squeezed all at once always surprises you. Smoothness is the key to comfort.
- Keep to the right. On the trail, you ride on the right, just like on the road.
Which snowmobile for a beginner?
For a first experience, a touring snowmobile is ideal. Our 2027 Ski-Doo Expedition 600 ACE was chosen precisely for that: stable, comfortable, with a windshield and heated grips. It seats two people, so you can share the experience with a passenger.
Which package for a first time?
The 2-hour package (25 to 35 km) is perfect for discovering the activity without tiring yourself out. If you feel up to it, the half-day (3.5 hours, 60 to 80 km) is still beginner level and leaves more time to enjoy the Outaouais scenery.
Ready for your first ride?
The snowmobile season starts on December 19, 2026 in Duhamel. Gear, a certified guide and the route are all included: all you have to do is enjoy. Book your snowmobile tour, or check our FAQ for any questions.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need experience to ride a snowmobile?
No. The transmission is automatic and every tour starts with a full briefing. Biffrentals Aventure asks for no prior experience.
How old do you have to be for a snowmobile tour?
The driver must be at least 21 and hold a valid driver's licence.
Which duration should I pick for a first ride?
The 2-hour tour (25 to 35 km) is perfect to discover the activity. The half-day (3 h 30, 60 to 80 km) is still beginner level.
When does the snowmobile season start in Duhamel?
The snowmobile season begins on December 19, 2026.
Which snowmobile do beginners ride?
A 2027 Ski-Doo Expedition 600 ACE: stable and comfortable, with a windshield and heated grips, for two people.
Updated October 2026
