Side-by-Side in Winter: Snow Excursion in the Outaouais

People often associate the side-by-side with summer mud and dust. Yet winter is when many enthusiasts prefer it: whitened trails, a silent forest, frozen lakes as far as the eye can see. If you're hesitating to try it, here is what to expect.

Can you really ride a side-by-side on snow?

Yes. The side-by-side, also called an ATV side-by-side or UTV, is a four-wheel-drive vehicle built for rough terrain. On a groomed trail or packed snow, it offers surprising grip. All our side-by-sides are fitted with studded tires, which give good traction on ice. Our excursions use trails suited to winter riding, led by a guide.

Differences from a summer outing

• Driving. You drive more smoothly: gradual acceleration, early braking, gentle turns.
• Scenery. The bare vegetation opens up views of the valleys and lakes of the Petite-Nation.
• Calm. Fewer people on the trail, and a silence you only find in winter.
• Cold. It's the only real challenge, and it's easily handled with the right outfit.

Side-by-side or snowmobile in winter?

The side-by-side drives like a car: steering wheel, pedals, seat belt. You sit next to each other, which makes the experience very friendly for chatting and sharing discoveries. For anyone uneasy about straddling a snowmobile, it's often the ideal gateway to winter motorsports. If snowmobiling appeals to you too, our beginner's guide explains what to expect.

How to dress

Think of the three-layer principle: a technical base layer, an insulating layer and a waterproof coat. Add warm winter boots, insulated gloves, a thin hat under the helmet and a neck warmer. Avoid cotton, which holds moisture.

How a guided excursion works

1. Welcome at the meeting point and presentation of the vehicle.
2. Safety briefing: controls, the guide's signals, distances.
3. Departure in single file behind the guide, on the trails.
4. Photo stops at the best viewpoints.
5. Return to the starting point.

Our vehicles

We use Can-Am Maverick X3 models: a 195-horsepower two-seat Turbo RR and a 175-horsepower four-seat MAX Turbo R, ideal for families and groups of friends. Excursions are offered as 2 hours, a half-day or a full day, from $499. The two-seat model has a closed, heated cab so you stay warm even in deep cold, and all our side-by-sides are fitted with studded tires.

The winter side-by-side season resumes on November 23, 2026 in Duhamel. To extend your outing, read our article on where to stay before or after your excursion.

Book a side-by-side excursion.

Frequently asked questions