Most Impressive Quebec City Outdoor Ice Rinks this Winter

Hockey is the national sport of Quebecers. If you want a real local experience, you HAVE to go ice skating in Quebec City. Unsurprisingly, you will find some truly impressive outdoor ice rinks here.

But with so many ice skating rinks to choose from, it’s hard to know where to go! Here are our favorites places to ice skate in Quebec City – each one impressive in its own way.

Outdoor Ice Skating in Quebec City

Place D'Youville Ice Rink

Place d’Youville is the beautiful plaza right in the center of Old Quebec. It is one of the most beautiful spots in town, with splendid views of Quebec’s 400+ years old fortifications.

The ice rink is relatively small, and in the crowded Christmas period, you will share the ice with a lot of people (many being first-time skaters). But despite that inconvenience, the site is truly magical (especially after sunset) and skating at Place d’Youville is a must-do activity for those visiting Quebec City during winter.

When you’re finished, walk a few meters down the street and you’ll enter the fortified city through St. John Gate. Rue St Jean is full of restaurants where you can warm up after skating.

Plains of Abraham Ice Skating Rink

The outdoor ice-skating area on the Plains of Abraham is a local’s favourite. No matter how cold it is outside, you’ll see residents from nearby streets head there with their skates.

The skating area is huge: 358 meters by 7 meters. It’s a great spot for beginners, who can rent skates, a helmet and even a support frame to help their balance on the ice.

PEPS Ice Skating Rink

Laval University, located in Sainte-Foy, uses its football field to create an ice rink during winter. It's another good option for outdoor ice skating in Quebec City. Parking on site is easy and it is free at certain times of the day. More information here.

Natural Ice Ice Skating in Quebec City (Natural Lakes)

Lake Beauport Ice Skating Loop

This natural ice skating rink is located outside of town, near the Relais ski field.

The ice-skating area is a rectangular shape and is 2.42 kilometers long. The ice is not maintained as well as nor as frequently as that of other ice rinks on this list, but the country scenery is well worth it.

There’s a lot to do in the Lac Beauport area, but you will need a car to get there. Last year, I spent a full day that way and combined dog-sledding in the morning with ice skating on the Lake in the afternoon. It was a great day of activities!

Lake St-Augustin Ice Skating Oval

In winter, Lake St-Augustin becomes a vibrant spot for ice activities, offering an ice skating oval and hockey rinks. It's wise to check their Facebook page for updates to ensure availability. Temporary restrooms are set up for the season. However, note that skate rentals are not available, so bring your own gear.

Ice Skating Trails in the Forest Near Quebec City

Parc de Glisse du Grand Héron (Sainte-Catherine-de-la-Jacques-Cartier)

Parc du Grand Héron features a fantastic forest skating trail and it is truly magical, especially after sunset. It takes approximately 30 minutes to get there from the old Quebec by car. What can you expect ? You will skate in the open air through the trees, on 2.5 kilometres of well-maintained ice. Along the way, you will encounter a few rest areas, some of which feature a fire pit. It’s especially magical and the best time of the day to go is just before dusk, as you get to explore the trail in the sunlight and in the dark.

Domaine Enchanteur

Domaine Enchanteur, close to Trois-Rivieres, features a 15km ice skating trail through the forest, open from day to evening. The trail is particularly striking at night, illuminated by firepits. Skate rental is available, making it convenient for visitors without their own gear. Additionally, you can purchase food on site, enhancing the overall experience. Remember, ice sticks are not allowed on the ice. This destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty and convenience for a memorable skating experience.

Station Duchesnay

Station Touristique Duchesnay, located just 30 minutes from Quebec City, has an ice skating rink in a forest setting (not an ice skating trail in the forest per se, but not a conventional city ice rink either). Duchesnay is a popular spot for various winter sports like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, however access to the ice rink is exclusive to overnight guests. So, if you're keen on skating amidst nature, plan a weekend getaway here to fully enjoy the scenic ice rink.

Final Words About Ice Skating in Quebec City

If you’re looking for a fun winter activity to do in Quebec City, look no further than the outdoor skating rinks. There are plenty of them scattered throughout the city and its suburbs, so you’re sure to find one that’s close to you.