7 Lakes In Quebec That Completely Freeze Over in the Winter

Winter sports are a popular pastime in Quebec, but some require a lake that completely freezes over. Finding a frozen lake isn’t an issue in the area, though, because there are quite a few to choose from for ice fishing, ice skating, and other activities. 

When enjoying frozen lakes in Quebec, don’t forget to wear warm layers to protect yourself from the cold. You should also check the ice thickness to ensure it’s safe to be on. While the lakes discussed here typically freeze completely, it does not indicate safety at any exact time, so use your best judgment when going on the ice.

Knowing which Quebec lakes completely freeze over in the winter can help determine where you can enjoy outdoor activities in the area. Here are some frozen lakes you can check out this winter:

1. Lake Saint Jean (Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean)

The Charlevoix region boasts Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, a Quebec lake that freezes over in the winter and provides a stunning view of the surrounding landscapes. Ice fishers will likely catch yellow walleye, perch, and pike in this lake, although they’re not the only possibilities. 

While you’re in the area, you can also enjoy snowmobiling, ice skating, sledding, snowshoeing, downhill skiing, and cross-country skiing. You can also ride a Fatbike on the beautiful trails surrounding the lake. 

2. Lake Memphremagog (Lac Memphrémagog)

This lake lies between Vermont, United States, and Magog, Quebec, Canada. When it freezes over, the ice can be 3 feet thick. Ice fishers love this area for the variety of fish they can catch and the thickness of the ice. 

You can ice skate on the lake and engage in other outdoor winter activities. Plus, a festively lit-up ice skating trail loops around Lake Memphremagog, offering beautiful sights. 

3. Saint-Joseph Lake (Lac Saint-Joseph)

Saint-Joseph Lake typically completely freezes over in the winter, starting in early December and not melting until late March. Winter ice sports are possible from late December to early March when the ice is thickest. 

4. Lake Simon (Lac Simon)

Lake Simon is an option in The Laurentians for frozen-ice activities because it completely freezes over. You can go there for ice fishing, ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. While you’re in the area, you can also go forest skating on ice trails that are lit up after dark.

5. St-Augustin Lake (Lac Saint-Augustin)

You can find Saint-Augustin Laken in Quebec City, and it gets completely covered by ice in the winter. From ice fishing to skating on the lake, you can enjoy the frozen water for months each winter. You can also visit nearby ice skating and hockey rinks. 

6. Lake Beauport (Lac-Beauport)

This lake has a natural rectangular ice skating rink surrounded by beautiful scenery. It’s a great place for ice fishing, and you can go snowmobiling and dog sledding in the surrounding area.

Lake Beauport freezes over at the beginning of December, although it’s likely not safe to venture onto until late in the month. It doesn’t thaw through until the end of March, but you shouldn’t go on the ice after the beginning of the month.

7. Lake of Two Mountains (Lac des Deux Montagnes)

The Lake of Two Mountains is located where the Ottawa River delta widens and merges with the St. Lawrence River. It is a popular lake for ice fishing, and some people venture out for nighttime ice fishing. This lake gets its name from Mont Oka’s two highest peaks overlooking the northern shore. 

Summary of Lakes in Quebec That Completely Freeze Over in the Winter

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Arra from Arracreates, magcs from Getty Images/ via Canva.com