Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing

Superlatives are all one hears for the Mont-Sainte-Anne Cross-Country Centre, located 7 km. from the downhill area. With 224 km. of trails through the Laurentian forest, this center is the largest in Canada, second only to California's Royal Gorge in North America, and not to be missed just for the "joie de ski" Canadians exude on cross-country trails.

The Mont-Sainte-Anne Cross-Country Centre has plenty of trails for all abilities. A choice of varying length trail loops make it easy to adjust your outing to your ability and stamina. Skating skiers will find 135 km. of groomed trails.

The area's base lodge has an extensive ski school, a small cafeteria, a waxing room and a cross-country boutique with rentals, which include a baby glider to pull along your youngster, if you choose not to leave him or her at the Alpine area day care.

A day trip for the not-faint-of-heart is the trek along the powerline (Sentier du Versant Nord) to the base of the north side of Mont-Sainte-Anne Alpine area. Though it's about a 7 km. trek, all uphill, the reward is the superb scenery along the way and a nice lunch at the Chalet du Versant Nord. And then there's skiing downhill all the way back to the base lodge.

Mont-Sainte-Anne also has 20 km. of snowshoeing trails. Try the guided tours with a Swiss fondue dinner at the Summit Lodge, on Wednesday and Saturday nights.

Lodging at the cross-country area include the unique B&B, L'Auberge du Fondeur (800-463-1568; 827-5281) right on the trails, or the Ruisseau Rouge and Le Chaudron shelters along the trails. These rustic shelters each can accommodate up to eight skiers and are equipped with wood stoves so skiers can cook their own meals. Reservations are required (827-4561, ext. 408) but there is no charge for their use with purchase of a two-day or more ski pass.

You'll also find cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in nearby Québec City.