Cross-country Skiing

Skiing in the heart of the city

Enjoy the trails for free in an enchanting location with a spectacular view of the Saint-Lawrence River. The Plains provide more than 14 km of ski trails laid out for classic and skate cross-country skiing (beginner, intermediate and expert):

• 5 classic trails: 1 easy trail, 3 intermediate trails and 1 expert trail

• 3 skate trails: 1 easy trail, intermediate trail and 1 expert trail

Note that rain, snow, and sleet precipitation can delay or prevent grooming and deteriorate the condition of groomed trails. 

Trails

Besides adding a special touch to the trail experience, the names will help visitors learn about the park's history.

• Trail 51 - Des Braves: after the park at the site of the Battle of Sainte-Foy in 1760.

• Trail 52 - Gilmour: after the road that runs downhill from the Plains of Abraham to Boulevard Champlain. That name comes from John Gilmour (1812-1877), who opened a shipyard in the cove where the road comes down to the river.

• Trail 53 - Martello: in honour of nearby Martello Tower 1. Like the other Martello towers of Quebec City, this one was built in the early 19th century to meet the threat of an American invasion.

• Trail 54 - Cap-Blanc: after the staircase it goes by. Built in 1868, the staircase was used by workers to walk up to the Cove Fields munition factories.

• Trail 55 - Cap-aux-Diamants: because it partly follows the cliff edge of Cap Diamant. That was a name given to the cape in the 17th century. The shorter version of "Cap Diamant" has prevailed since the 18th century.