Shawinigan

Shawinigan, located in the Mauricie region, has a special connection to ski culture, mainly thanks to Vallée du Parc ski resort just a few minutes from downtown. This family-friendly alpine center offers 33 runs, a terrain park, and an alpine luge track, drawing skiers and snowboarders from across the area every winter. Shawinigan has nurtured many enthusiasts who made their mark in freestyle and alpine skiing, taking advantage of nearby facilities to develop their skills from a young age. Ski culture also thrives at Parc de l’Île-Melville, a favorite spot for cross-country skiing and winter activities, with varied terrain along the Saint-Maurice River. Beyond sports, the town celebrates its love of winter through local events and the lively atmosphere of microbreweries and cafés where skiers and families gather after a day on the slopes. Shawinigan thus blends small-town life, a strong sense of community, and a passion for the mountains, making it a vibrant little hub of Quebec ski culture.