In this episode of SNOWTRAX LIVE Presented by Ski-Doo, Luke’s LIVE in the TRAIL TECH shop chatting with you about the 2026 Ski-Doo snowmobile line-up and answering any of your questions about Ski-Doo or general questions about anything snowmobile related.
Luke highlights some of his most memorable experiences along with some must-do attractions and events that make snowmobiling in Québec one of the best winter time activities.
Boldly charging into the future with renewed energy, Arctic Cat’s shared mission of building a company of riders for riders has the throttle to the bars.
Key areas of focus have been within the sales and customer service teams. With recent additions adding to an already strong core, our veteran sales team now has a combined 300-plus years of professional powersports industry experience.
Recent additions include district sales manager Brock Fischer covering Texas and Oklahoma; Tracy Burkhart covering Minnesota, North and South Dakota; Tim Miller covering Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey and Connecticut; Kelly Rees covering Kentucky, Virginia, West Virginia and the District of Columbia; and Mark Mackin covering New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland/Labrador.
Arctic Cat District Sales Managers are in the field every day—supporting their existing dealers, signing new partners, and providing hands-on support to the network in their local markets. Their work is a direct driver of Arctic Cat’s growth and a reflection of our commitment to strong, long-term dealer relationships.
The addition of recent team members only enhances an already impressive team that, combined, has professional experience at more than 20 OEMs, aftermarket companies, distributors, and dealerships. Regional Sales Directors Eric Bondy, Derek Jordahl and Kevin Asselin are nearing the end of their search to cap off this impressive team of dealer partners.
Arctic Cat is actively recruiting and signing high-quality dealerships with a focus and promise to never oversaturate a market, offering dealers the opportunity to grow their businesses. Since the new ownership group received the keys back in April, there has been a rally cry from dealers who are ready to support a brand that believes in their products, employees and their future of offering premium products to their consumers.
This support has so far increased new Arctic Cat’s dealer interest two-fold with goals to continue at a measured pace, placing Arctic Cat products and quality dealer service closer to consumers who live to ride.
Commenting on Arctic Cat’s approach for dealer relations, Brad Darling, President and CEO, states, “We are a company of riders who work to understand and anticipate our dealer’s needs, and those of their customers. We are a committed partner that provides the best products and support, ensuring Arctic Cat is a successful addition to their business.”
Based on the feedback and energy coming from the fall snowmobile and offroad shows, current Arctic Cat dealers have overwhelmingly expressed that Arctic Cat riders are raising their flags to let everyone know, “Riders Rule.”
About Arctic Cat Arctic Cat has been a leader in the offroad industry since 1962. Arctic Cat markets its Snowmobile, ATV and SXS products through a network of independent dealers located throughout the United States and Canada and through distributors representing dealers in Europe, South America, the Middle East, Asia and other international markets.
Luke provides a detailed overview of and his initial impressions of the 2026 Polaris Switchback Assault 146 featuring the Patriot 9R engine and the ALL-NEW Escape front suspension featuring a narrower 39-41-inch ski-stance for even better off-trail performance.
In this episode of SNOWTRAX LIVE Presented by Ski-Doo, Luke’s LIVE in the TRAIL TECH shop chatting with you about the 2026 Ski-Doo snowmobile line-up and answering any of your questions about Ski-Doo or general questions about anything snowmobile related.
Team Arctic is eagerly anticipating the coming winter, when it aims to reclaim its rightful place atop the cross-country racing world with a newly expanded factory team.
Rising star Jesse Hallstrom will team with legendary racer Zach Herfindahl in the Team Arctic hauler in the Pro classes on the Cor PowerSports race circuit, while Derek Kloety returns to chase the Semi-Pro titles. Each will compete on Catalyst chassis-based ZR 600 R-XC models.
Hallstrom, 19, of Thief River Falls, Minnesota, started his career racing Arctic Cat snowmobiles at age 4, when he learned what it takes to reach the podium. After spending the last three seasons with another team, he returns to his hometown roots with more experience and robust aspirations. “As I look ahead to this new chapter, I’m grateful for where I’ve been and even more energized for what’s to come being back on an Arctic Cat,” said Hallstrom.
Herfindahl, 29, of Eagle River, Wisconsin, has already amassed 14 points championships, five cross-country I-500 victories and a Soo I-500 enduro win in his storied career – all aboard Arctic Cats. He is looking to build on that success in 2026 with his new teammate. “These are exciting times for Team Arctic,” Herfindahl said. “I am pumped about the addition of Jesse to our team.”
Kloety, 21, of St. Hilaire, Minnesota, finished fourth in Semi-Pro Improved Stock last season, including two trips to the podium in five rounds. “I’m excited to have Jesse back on Cats where he belongs,” said Kloety. “We all work well together and are hoping we can all push each other to get faster.”
Team Arctic Race Manager Mike Kloety added, “Jesse coming back to Team Arctic brings talent, youth and passion for the sport, plus a good Arctic Cat family heritage, all in one program. Having another good rider racing out of the factory trailer will provide more feedback, which will speed up our ability to get information and support to all of Cat’s racers.”
This winter, Team Arctic will be showcasing a broad range of returning and new cross-country racers who each play a vital role in the team’s efforts to chase checkered flags and continue development through competition. Also returning this season is the factory Arctic Cat race trailer, ready to offer support to all of Team Arctic at every Cor Powersports race. Look for more complete Arctic Cat race team details in coming weeks. And look for its racers at the front of the pack this winter.
About Arctic Cat Arctic Cat has been a leader in the offroad industry since 1962. Arctic Cat markets its Snowmobile, ATV and SXS products through a network of independent dealers located throughout the United States and Canada and through distributors representing dealers in Europe, South America, the Middle East, Asia and other international markets.
Cardo Systems, the global leader in wireless communication systems for powersports, has introduced new premium accessories this year for snowmobile riders with the durability and comfort necessary to face harsh winter conditions.
Cardo’s PACKTALK Edge ORV helmet communications systems feature state-of-the-art wireless Dynamic Mesh connectivity, premium audio by JBL, are IP67 waterproof, and easily snap onto helmets to provide uninterrupted, cellular-free connectivity.
In time for the 2025-26 snowmobiling season, Cardo launched an IP67-certified waterproof hybrid boom microphone built to withstand wet, snowy conditions and ensure clear, reliable communication.
Recognizing the unique challenges snowmobilers face, Cardo specially engineered the frost-resistant mic cover to perform in sub-zero temperatures. The mic is tailored for snowmobile helmets and delivers consistent performance even in extreme cold—an essential feature for riders tackling snow and ice.
Additionally, for the Cardo PACKTALK EDGEPHONES ORV over-ear communications systems, Cardo introduced new Comfort-Fit Gel Cups as an accessory for improved all-day comfort and a tighter seal around the ears.
The new Gel Cups provide improved noise isolation and communication clarity, along with increased durability against snow and water.
Cardo customers who own EDGEPHONES can easily install the Comfort-Fit Gel Cups by hand. Built for repeat use outdoors, they also feature a removable fabric cover for easy cleaning.
“Cardo’s comfortable and reliable off-road comms can be used year-round, from winter snowmobile season to spring and summer UTV rides, keeping friends and families more connected on whatever trails they like to ride,” said Liat Sade Lavan, Cardo’s Head of ORV.
The IP67-certified Waterproof Microphone and Comfort-Fit Gel Cups for EDGEPHONES and EDGEPHONES ORV are now available through Cardo dealers and online. The waterproof microphone retails for $24.95 / €26.95, and is compatible with most Cardo devices, including the Packtalk family, Freecom X, and Spirit families, but not with Edgephones. The Comfort-Fit Gel Cups are available for an MSRP of $39.95 / €39.95.
“We understand that snowmobile enthusiasts are passionate about their sport,” Lavan said. “They love to travel and enjoy riding together, so we’ve designed our communications products – from the PACKTALK Edge ORV in-helmet system to the EDGEPHONES ORV over-ear system – to provide the best possible sound quality and reliability no matter the terrain or environment. And these new snow-focused accessories will make the experience even better this season.”
For more information about Cardo Systems, visit cardosystems.com or join in the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or YouTube.
About Cardo Systems – Cardo Systems is a provider of cutting-edge devices and application services for powersports and outdoor enthusiasts. After pioneering the world’s first Bluetooth-based wireless intercom headset in 2004, Cardo has been responsible for many industry innovations that have revolutionized communication, pushed technological boundaries, and enhanced user safety. In 2025, Cardo is proudly marking a decade since launching mesh connectivity into the communications industry with its innovative ‘Dynamic Mesh Communication’. Now sold in over 100 countries and enjoyed by motorcyclists, UTV drivers, ATV riders, snowmobilers, snow skiers, snowboarders, and other outdoor enthusiasts, Cardo is proud to be the world’s leading communication device for people in motion.
Our crew got into a deep discussion recently when asked, If you could go anywhere to ride snowmobiles, where would it be and why?
While the reason for their top choice varied, it didn’t take more than a hot minute before the unanimous choice was decided. As eloquently put by one of us: “For the diehard snowmobiler, no riding season is ever complete without a trip to Québec. It only takes one trip and you’ll be hooked for life.”
Many of our crew members have snowmobiled in Québec countless times – some going back to the 1980’s and 1990’s. As the conversation continued, the enthusiasm for the province as a world-class destination focused in on the attractions and amenities, we had all personally experienced in our travels to Québec.
First and foremost is the incredible network of snowmobile trails that interconnect every area. Luke said, “It doesn’t seem to matter where in the province you ride, the trails are always so well-groomed and so thoughtfully laid out. You can ride your snowmobile to almost any region and you’ll find wide, safe trails and it’s a rarity to ride a whole day and not see at least a couple of groomers out there hard at work.”
He added, “The scenery is flat-out awesome – there are places where you’re riding through rolling meadows and beautiful forests for miles and then you suddenly come up on a quaint village or first-class resort where you’d least expect it. I also love how diverse the terrain is throughout the province. I didn’t believe it until I experienced it first-hand. The Chic-Chocs offer technical deep snow riding rivaling the terrain in Western Canada and the United States, but at an elevation that doesn’t make it hard to catch your breath. Can you ask for anything better?”
AJ said: “I love the fact that Québec is so close in proximity. From where I live in Ontario, it’s only a day’s drive, yet once I cross the border into Québec and start immersing myself into its culture, I feel like I’m experiencing a worldly adventure – like being in Europe. You simply can’t replicate this type of experience anywhere else in North America, and, of course, you can’t find trails like the ones in Québec anywhere overseas”.
“We were impressed with the trail signage. We thought there might be a possibility the language could be a problem but there was zero trouble finding where we were or how far it was to our daily destinations. The local clubs aren’t the only ones that have signs at every intersection; local businesses, restaurants, fuel stations and places for overnight stays also do an incredibly good job of directing you to their place,” stated Vern.
Said longtime staffer, Mark: “I remember the first time I rode in Québec – it was in 1983 and the trails were better than anywhere else even back then. I sometimes wonder if the fact Québec is the home to the modern snowmobile as we know it today didn’t have something to do with the huge effort, they put into creating those 33,000 kms of trails and gaining a thorough understanding of the importance of maintaining them the way they always have.”
“I love the great food,” added another staffer, “and some of the places I’ve stayed overnight have been downright incredible – quaint places tucked back into the countryside with thoughtfully furnished rooms and fabulous dining. It’s really special to stay at places like that after you’ve been on the trails all day!”
During our conversation we soon discovered we were talking about a place that has it all: Great riding, great culture, great accommodation, and great snow! You could say: Riding in Québec is addictive!
We put together a list of some of Québec’s regions and winter tourist sites. When you’re planning a winter vacation these places need to be top-of-mind.
Abitibi-Témiscamingue
Photo Credit: Tourisme Abitibi-Témiscamingue
This is Québec’s most southwestern region and abuts the province of Ontario for many miles along its western border. Canadians can literally snowmobile from Ontario to Abitibi-Témiscamingue on wide, smooth-groomed trails. Because of its location, there is abundant snow cover and 3500 km of wide, high-quality trails.
It’s a more remote place to ride but incredibly beautiful because of its boreal forests in the north. This means the trees are pretty much all coniferous pines and firs there, growing to less height than you’d see further south in the province where the winter season is shorter.
The scenery is pure, natural and untouched and this is a very good place to see all kinds of wildlife. One thing is certain, you won’t get caught in any traffic jams – spaces are remote and wide open – and unforgettably beautiful!
Photo Credit: Eeyou Istchee Baie-James / D. Vachon
Eeyou Istchee Baie-James region reaches to Québec’s far north and, because of its far latitude location, winter stretches here as far as the eye can see. The season is long, really long. It is a bucket-list destination for many snowmobilers who experience its remote, but immaculately-maintained trails with no stop signs, just pure northern freedom.
The 1,400 km Conqueror loop takes you through vast boreal forests, proud small towns, and welcoming Cree communities. It’s a ride for those who crave space, silence, and something different. There’s a strong list of near-trail and on-trail services available for overnight stays, food, and snowmobile service. This region provides the snowmobiling “experience of a lifetime” and is a must-see location for the most adventurous snowmobile enthusiast.
It’s easy to access the Outaouais region’s wide, well-maintained trails because of its western location in the province and its proximity to both Ontario and New York State. This is a breathtaking place to ride a snowmobile! Its range of geography includes scenic valleys, rolling hills and meadows, lakes, woodlands and the opportunity to observe all kinds of northern wildlife.
You can cross a bridge by snowmobile from Ontario onto Trail 13 or another bridge taking you onto Trail 43. We suggest you take Trans-Québec trail 43 to experience the smooth-groomed Pontiac Pacific railway trail (92 km) and ride 487 metres on the world’s longest snowmobile bridge; then check out Québec’s longest covered bridge (Marchand Covered Bridge) and – still accessible from Trail 43 – the picturesque Chutes Coulonge waterfall.
Right next to the Outaouais is the Laurentians region. Its location in such close proximity to major population centers means trail maintenance by the local snowmobile club volunteers is meticulous and frequent. When riding here, you must visit the 21-meter-high observation tower at the top of the famous Montagne du Diable (Devil’s Mountain). An 11-passenger shuttle is also available to take visitors to the summit.
You’ll find the trails here are well-signed and you’ll never be far from a town or village where you can dine or stay overnight. Hospitality is the hallmark of the inns, hotels and resorts here and you’ll always feel welcome. You can put in a full day and, after riding literally hundreds of miles, have a delicious meal in quaint, warm fireside surroundings, then fall into a cozy bed for the night.
Since Lanaudière is located only about two hours north of Montréal – and close to Québec City – it’s an easy drive from both Ontario and the USA. There’s an abundance of inns and resorts that will safely store your vehicle for you while you head out on your snowmobile adventure. Many riders starting here, plan their trip to include both Lanaudière and, heading northeast, visit the Mauricie. There are a number of independent tour companies that will guide you – some will even provide rental snowmobiles. Both of these vast regions offer incredible scenery and legendary wide, safe trails.
Accommodations range from luxurious to rustic and these may be two of the busiest snowmobiling regions in the province. Because of that, trail grooming is done frequently, and you can be assured of excellent riding. Be sure to ride The Snowmobile Country Classic Trail. It’s a one-of-a-kind tour where you’ll observe headstones representing builders of the region. The route will take you to picturesque sites where you’ll discover the region’s heritage and meet a proud and welcoming population.
In the Québec City region, snowmobilers enjoy the perfect balance between urban energy and wilderness, with scenic trails starting just minutes from the heart of the city.
There’s a long list of quality, cozy hotels, B&B’s and inns along loop routes heading out from the city. Epicurean? Who isn’t! Thanks to the overflowing passion of emerging and established chefs, Québec City’s gastronomic scene is booming. There are always good addresses of new restaurants to try and we see a lot of local products in the menus. We savour meals with French, British and Indigenous influences, but also traditional French-Canadian and boreal cuisine.
Because of its unique charm, Old Québec has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. This international accolade is bestowed on only a few places around the world and is evident from the moment you arrive in the city.
If you need a snowmobile rental or guide service for both short and long treks, you can get it here, too. Québec City also hosts events in the winter, so if you’re planning your trip, make sure your dates coincide with one of these grand activities.
Charlevoix region, because of its unique location bordering the St. Lawrence River along its southern edge, offers some of the most breathtaking views imaginable. Not only are the trails designed to be coastal, but there’s the magnificent experience of riding in the mountains, too.
Located centrally, Charlevoix is easily accessible from the USA and there’s easy entry for Canadians from both the eastern provinces and from Ontario. You can tour this region on one of many loop routes, some coming from major population centers, or experience Charlevoix on your way through it as part of a longer trans-Québec snowmobile adventure.
Innumerable overnight and food establishments are situated along the way! Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu is a must-stay for snowmobilers. This huge 5-star hotel features a heated garage, stunning river view, several restaurants, a full range of on-site activities, heated outdoor pools, spa, and much more.
Right across from the hotel, the Casino de Charlevoix adds an unbeatable entertainment option, perfect for après-sled evenings.
If you keep heading east through Charlevoix, you’ll enter the southernmost boundary of Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean. It’s well worth extending your ride, both for bragging rights and for the experience of riding the region’s incredible trail network. Although the land mass in this region is huge, thirteen snowmobile clubs work diligently to groom and maintain this remote trail system. The snowfall is deep and plentiful… and that is paramount to excellent trail grooming!
The season is longer here, often extending into the end of March, so a later season trip, if planned, is unlikely to disappoint. It’s not just about the snowfall, either. Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean offers incredible natural scenery and not just a few vistas (one being Saguenay Fjord), you’ll be remembering for decades. Another “can’t miss” is Mount Apica Viewpoint, part of the Mont-Apica Loop, an extremely beautiful 7-km trail offering incredible scenery at an elevation of over 400 meters.
Photo Credit: Tourisme Centre-du-Québec / L. Verville
Centre-du-Québec is close to large population centers and because it’s located south of the St. Lawrence River, it’s easy to get to, especially from the United States. Between the majestic St. Lawrence River and the foothills of the Appalachians, more than 1,000 kilometers of marked trails take you through breathtaking scenery. Here, adventure meets authenticity: warm lodges, friendly hospitality, and magnificent winter landscapes await you at every turn.
Since the population is denser in this region, there are plenty of overnight, service and food establishments, many directly accessible by snowmobile. The clubs and organizations that do the region’s impeccable trail maintenance have also designed a number of shorter loop rides – a “daisy wheel” – of well-signed trails that can be as little as one day or several days long if you wish, branching out from your starting point. Centre-du-Québec promises a unique getaway, where every outing becomes a memorable experience.
These three unique regions offer 6000 km (3700 mi.) of marked and well-groomed trails, many ride options, and a lot of unique experiences such as the possibility to cross the St. Lawrence on a ferry.
Bas-Saint-Laurent (Trans-Québec #5, #35, #85) offers magnificent views of the St. Lawrence and its islands in addition to being a land of many lakes and forests. Trails will take you to Kamouraska, along the flats of Rivière-du-Loup, to the Notre-Dame Mountains, and through quaint and lovely villages, revealing a spectacular landscape at every turn.
The furthest point east of the St. Lawrence, is the huge region of Gaspésie (Trans-Québec #5). Here you’ll experience unforgettable sea and mountain views. The peninsula includes many must-see spots : Percé Rock, an iconic landmark which is especially impressive in the winter when it’s surrounded by ice, the Chic-Choc Mountains, Mont-Saint-Pierre, the Chaleur Bay, etc.
Côte-Nord (Trans-Québec #3), sits north of the St. Lawrence and extends eastward to the border with Labrador. Trails here open onto a succession of spectacular vistas of the Estuary and Gulf of St. Lawrence and give you the opportunity to cross legendary rivers over staggeringly high snowmobile bridges, including the highest snowmobile bridge in North America.
All three regions of Québec by the Sea offer true Québec-style accommodations and hospitality, along with unforgettable views and riding experiences you can only see from the seat of a snowmobile!
4 EASY STEPS FOR PLANNING A SNOWMOBILE TRIP IN QUÉBEC
Check out Bonjour Québec’s website to find Québec’s most iconic trails: bonjourquebec.com
Plan your itinerary with this handy guide!
Québec has thousands of kilometers of interconnected trails to explore. Use the guide to discover every region, must-ride trails and sightseeing spots and accommodations along the way: bonjourquebec.com
Get ready to ride!
A trail permit is essential to ride a snowmobile in Québec, no matter how long the trip is. Easily get yours online now so you’re ready to ride as soon as the trails open. fcmq.qc.ca
Stay informed in real time!
Easily access trail maps, get updates on trail conditions, accommodations and more through one convenient app. Download this app: fcmq.qc.ca
Ride the right way!
The best way to keep snowmobiling fun and safe for everyone is by respecting your fellow riders and following this code of conduct. fcmq.qc.ca
If you’re not hooked on Québec by now, you certainly will be after you’ve ridden its trails this winter. Plan a trip this year and you’ll be visiting again every year – guaranteed!
This past spring we topped up the fluids of every sled in our fleet and put ’em on the scale to get the actual wet weights for each of these snowmobiles!
This past winter we had the chance to visit New York State to ride trails around Lake Placid and learn more about its Olympic heritage, then we headed to Long Lake to ride some of the best trails in America and experience everything the Adirondacks has to offer.
