Ice canoeists

A vital tradition that has become both sporty and technical, ice canoeing is part of the DNA of the Isle-aux-Coudres community.

"Grande traversée Ocean"

Once a necessary means to transport vital medicines, food, loved ones or doctors, today (the round trip is overseen by the Société des Traversiers du Québec), paddling through the icy waters, stepping on the ice, freeing the canoe with the strength and determination of teamwork, is a tradition that nevertheless endures, becoming sporty and technical, even high-tech, for the duration of the annual Grande Traversée Océan race. There, in February of each year, the crews compete from L'Isle-au-Coudres to the shore of Saint-Joseph-de-la-Rive, guessing the sea currents and facing the perils of winter head on!