You can ice skate 3 hours from Montreal

About three hours outside of Montreal, near Gatineau Park, the Patinage en Foret natural ice skating rink weaves through fresh snow-covered trees and creates a winter wonderland.

On special nights, the road twinkles with the glow of more than 300 tiki torches. The chalet area becomes a lively retreat with music, lights and bonfires, while the skating rink remains a tranquil experience under the stars.

Visitors praise not only the glassy quality of the ice, but also the dedication of the people who keep it that way. The trailer crew gets high marks for their friendliness and efficiency, creating a welcoming atmosphere that starts with the large indoor changing area and ends with the satisfaction of a well-earned hot dog from the snack bar.

An on-site heated cabin serves as a sanctuary to lace up your skates, as well as rent everything you need for a day on the ice. For the unprepared, skates can be purchased for $10, beginner skates for $8 for two hours, and one-hour joy sleds raise the fun meter for $30 an hour.

“This is truly one of the most magical places I've ever been. The ice is perfect. The hospitality is second to none. The food is delicious. I'd go every week if I could. You feel your soul calm. Get out of the car,” wrote one reviewer of the location.

The proximity of the evergreen trees on the trail, the brush close enough to touch as you pass, offers a connection with nature that is often absent on urban or open country roads.

For a special bonfire night, you can reserve a seat online for $25 a pop. There are only 300 spots available to make sure the trail never gets crowded.

Regular admission (no lights) is $18 daily for adults, Monday through Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to sunset, and a season pass is $114 and offers unlimited access. The six- to 17-year-old age group skates for $14 a day, with their individual season ticket priced at $89. Snowshoeing and hiking trails are available for $10 for those who want to blast the snow under their feet.