The Outaouais in winter with kids: dog sledding, skiing, Winterlude and Parc Oméga
The Outaouais is a complete winter destination for families: big snowy forests, skiing 20 minutes from town, sled dogs and the big Winterlude festival. Here are six ideas for a great weekend (or spring break).
In short: for an unforgettable experience, dog sledding; to ski near town, Camp Fortune; to see animals in the snow, Parc Oméga; in late January, Winterlude and its free activities.
Out in the snow
1. Gatineau Sled Dogs
Dog-sled rides about an hour from Gatineau. A winter experience dog-loving kids won't forget. Reservations required.
- 10 Mont-Dumouchel, Saint-Sixte
- See the listing
2. Camp Fortune
A family ski hill in the heart of Gatineau Park, about 20 minutes from Gatineau and Ottawa.
- 300 Chemin Dunlop, Chelsea
- See the listing
3. Gatineau Park
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the big protected forest, with snowshoe rentals at the Chelsea visitor centre.
- 33 Chemin Scott, Chelsea
- See the listing
4. Parc Oméga
The drive among deer, elk and wolves is beautiful in the snow. In winter: dog sledding, snowshoeing and skating. Heated stop along the route.
- 399 Route 323 North, Montebello
- See the listing
5. Winterlude 2027 — January 29 to February 15
Snow tubing, ice sculptures and free outdoor activities on both sides of the river.
- Outdoor sites in Gatineau and Ottawa
- See the event
Indoors
6. Canadian Museum of History and Canadian Children's Museum
At the Children's Museum, "The Great Adventure" takes little ones around the world through play. Plan half a day.
- 100 Rue Laurier, Gatineau
- See the listing
A typical weekend
- Saturday: Camp Fortune in the morning, the Canadian Children's Museum in the afternoon.
- Sunday: Parc Oméga or dog sledding (booked ahead).
Our tips
- For dog sledding, dress everyone very warmly: you sit still in the cold for a long time.
- At Parc Oméga, allow 3 to 4 hours and fill up the gas tank first.
- For the rest of the region, see our article Things to do in Gatineau and the Outaouais.
Frequently asked questions
Where can families go dog sledding in the Outaouais?
At Gatineau Sled Dogs, by reservation, and at Parc Oméga, which offers dog sledding in winter.
Where can families ski near Gatineau?
At Camp Fortune, a family ski hill about 20 minutes from town.
Is Parc Oméga open in winter?
Yes, year-round, with a heated stop and washrooms along the route.
Information checked on October 13, 2026. Prices, hours and conditions may change: confirm with each place before you go.
