Take a guided starlit snowshoe along Gatineau Park’s trail #70 to Healey Shelter, where a wood‑stove dinner waits. This 6.5 km, 3‑hour winter outing from Ottawa or Gatineau pairs gentle forest travel with a warming meal.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A hush falls over the pines as straps click and headlamps pierce the dark — you push off into snow that squeaks under organized steps. The guide sets the cadence on trail #70, and the forest narrows into a corridor of white. After about 6.5 km round‑trip and an hour of steady travel you arrive at Healey Shelter: a low, timbered refuge, its wood stove hissing, soup steaming, and the night outside an inked map of stars.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with steady walking fitness; can manage 6.5 km in packed snow with short climbs and breaks.
Wildlife
History
Gatineau Park is managed by the National Capital Commission; nearby Mackenzie King Estate preserves the summer retreat of Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King and reflects early 20th‑century recreational development.
Conservation
Winter travel compresses trails and protects vegetative layers—stay on packed routes, pack out waste, and avoid firewood gathering to preserve the shelter and surrounding forest.
Reserve your spot on the Gatineau Park Nocturnal Snowshoeing Adventure & Dinner - From Ottawa & Gatineau today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for changing temperatures
Wear moisture‑wicking base layers and an insulating midlayer; outer shell should be windproof and waterproof as conditions can shift quickly.
Bring water and high‑energy snacks
Cold shrinks thirst; carry an insulated bottle and quick snacks even though dinner is provided at the shelter.
Carry a spare headlamp battery
Guides supply headlamps, but extra batteries ensure you won’t be left in the dark if the temperature drains power.
Reserve transport and check pickup details
Shuttles run from Ottawa and Gatineau—confirm pickup point and arrival time so the group departs together.
Insulated waterproof winter boots
Keeps feet dry and warm; needed even though snowshoes are provided.
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Warm base and mid layers
Layering allows you to manage sweat and chill on climbs and at the shelter.
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Spare headlamp or extra batteries
Provided by the operator, but a spare ensures reliable light in extreme cold.
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Small daypack with insulated water bottle
Holds personal items, snacks and an insulated bottle to prevent freezing.
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