When people ask me about my favourite place to ride ATVs, I never mention a specific region. For me, the dream location isn’t a point on a map—it’s a type of terrain. What I’m looking for are technical trails, natural obstacles, and mechanical challenges that push me to my limits.
Since I was young, I’ve always been drawn to anything that requires precision and thoughtful planning. Whether in a 4 × 4 Jeep, on an old Honda Foreman, or climbing a hill on a mountain bike, I’ve always been the one who chooses the “slow and steady” approach over the “when in doubt, throttle out” mindset.
The Joy of Riding Technical ATV Trails
Why choose complicated, technical trails? Because, for some of us, that’s where the real adventure begins. My brain often runs at 12,000 RPM; in fact, I have a diagnosis of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). That means I’m constantly thinking about a thousand things at once. But when I’m behind the handlebars of my ATV, facing a field of rocks or a tricky section, everything slows down.
Calm sets in, my breathing slows, and I start analyzing the terrain. I look for the best line, the right angle of approach—Plan A. Then, almost instinctively, Plans B and C appear, in case the main route turns out to be too risky.
These moments, when agility is tested, help me focus. They’re anything but relaxing. My attention has to be razor-sharp. This isn’t the time to snap a ball joint, puncture a tire, or damage the differential. Risk is part of the game, but it has to be managed intelligently.
Preparing to Tackle Technical Terrain
When you choose this kind of terrain, preparation becomes essential. Before each ride, I make sure I’ve packed the key spare parts. I never go into technical trails alone. Having a riding buddy—or better yet, a third—makes all the difference. They help with safety, technical recovery, or just to share a good laugh.
Riding a technical ATV trail means stepping outside your comfort zone. But that’s where the fun is. Just like in backcountry snowmobiling, which I’ve been doing for years, you can find stunning, sometimes untouched places. These spots aren’t accessible to everyone—and that’s a good thing. Their beauty has to be earned. But keep in mind that if it’s hard to get in, it’s often even harder to get back out.
And that’s what I love: nothing is guaranteed—every metre has to be earned. It demands complete focus and constant concentration. There’s never a moment you can let your guard down.
Terrain Analysis: A Lesson Passed from Father to Son
My dad taught me, when I was very young, to analyze the terrain before acting. At least, I think that’s what he was doing when he would stop for ten minutes before climbing a steep hill or crossing a river. Maybe he just wanted a moment of peace. But he often said something I’ll never forget: “Don’t forget—you have to bring your machine home.”
That became my golden rule. No matter how much I want to tackle a technical section, if I’m not confident I can make it back, I don’t attempt it.
Lunch Break: A Well-Deserved Pause After a Technical Challenge
After two hours of racking my brain to find the right line, wondering if I’ll tip over or if my ATV will squeeze between the rocks, one of my favourite moments arrives: lunch break.
Nothing beats a squished sandwich from the bottom of a backpack, some dried fruit and nuts, eaten at the top of a tough trail. Sitting on a tree trunk, savouring every bite with a breathtaking view… That’s when I think: it doesn’t get better than this.
This kind of experience is hard to understand if you’ve never lived it. It’s not about performance, speed, or pure adrenaline. It’s more about connecting with nature, pushing your limits, and personal satisfaction.
Where to Find Technical ATV Trails in Quebec
In Quebec, we’re lucky to have ideal terrain for technical ATV enthusiasts. In Gaspésie, many mountains offer great challenges for those who love adventure. The Mauricie region, often overlooked, also hides many gems accessible only to those who dare to explore.
In Portneuf County, there are still plenty of wild areas, far from crowds and noise. All it takes is good planning and an open mind, ready to discover the unknown.
Learning to Trust Yourself
Over the years, I’ve overcome obstacles I never thought I could. I’ve learned to trust myself. You have to dare to venture out while staying aware of your limits. It’s not a race against others—it’s an adventure with yourself.
Always keep in mind that the goal is to make it home safe and sound. Plan your rides, respect nature, and listen to your machine. You’ll come back with incredible memories.
One day, you might be like me—sharing your feats, your failures, and your lessons learned around a campfire or in a video. The ATV world is amazing. You just have to dive in.
Technical ATV Trails: The Challenge Is Worth It
If you love challenges, mechanics, analysis, and calm adrenaline, technical trails are for you. Far from fast, noisy roads, they offer an authentic, demanding, and unforgettable experience.
Let yourself go, discover your limits, and savour every moment. There’s nothing more rewarding than completing a section you once thought was impossible.
Happy riding—and don’t forget: bring your machine home.
Special Thanks
A big thank you to Maxime Fortin and Véronique Boucher for the images! And thanks to Polaris for lending the quads to the InfoQuad team!
