Winter is usually quiet in North Hatley. Yet, when Mother Nature gives us a solid freeze—as is the case right now—there is tremendous room for creativity. Solstice Sauna is already proving that it can be done. In simple terms, once the ice reaches about 4 inches thick, it becomes possible to access the lake. Caution is still essential, as ice thickness can vary from one area to another. Of course, every winter is different, but some provide ice thick enough to enjoy activities safely.
North Hatley has a unique advantage: the village sits directly on the waterfront, allowing for easy access and a natural connection with local businesses. We could imagine simple, accessible routes—walking on the lake, going snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and even enjoying a campfire on beautiful days. Why not create an ice path all the way to Manoir Hovey?
When the ice is safe, the possibilities are many:
- Ice fishing
- Winter cycling (fat biking)
- Kite surfing
- Sauna
- Campfires (where permitted)
- Snowshoeing
- Cross-country skiing
- Ice sculpting
- Skating—and even ice hockey
So why not take it a step further? For example, grooming a packed trail for walking, biking, and snowshoeing, and setting a cross-country ski track when conditions allow.
On my end, I have a snowmobile that’s adapted for this kind of work. Do we have a groomer? And at the very least, I’m confident that several local businesses would be willing to contribute—because more safe activities on the lake also mean a more vibrant village in winter. After all, the Canton of Hatley already has one to maintain the cross-country ski trail along the Massawippi River.
In the end, only one thing is missing: a bit of vision, determination, and citizen collaboration to reclaim our lake during the winter. As for me, I’ll be out on Lake Massawippi soon, and also on Lake Memphrémagog, to enjoy ice fishing.
Wishing everyone a great start to a cold winter!
Crédit photo à la une : https://visitsweden.fr/voir-faire/nature-activites-en-plein-air/activites-en-hiver/patin-glace-lacs-geles/
