Quebec City toboggan slide to be refrigerated to counter effects of climate change
Winter traditions in Quebec City are a sight to behold, but one activity stands out among the rest – sliding down a hill of ice at breakneck speeds of up to 70 kilometres per hour on a wooden toboggan. This exhilarating experience has been a staple for visitors and locals alike for 140 years on the iconic Dufferin Terrace, towering 83 metres above the majestic St. Lawrence River.
The toboggan slide, managed by Au 1884 since 2014, has become a must-do activity for many tourists visiting Quebec City. Marc Duchesne, co-owner of Au 1884, shared that the slide has garnered quite a following, with visitors even inquiring about its opening hours before booking their travel plans. However, climate change has posed a challenge to the slide’s operation, with weather conditions forcing closures for a significant portion of the season.
To combat these challenges, Au 1884 is embarking on a $400,000 project to refrigerate the slide, with support from Tourisme Québec for winter infrastructure. This innovative solution will allow the slide to remain operational even in the absence of snow, extending the season until the end of March. Duchesne mentioned plans to open as early as American Thanksgiving, catering to the influx of tourists during that period.
The toboggan slide’s popularity extends beyond just locals, with a majority of its users hailing from outside the city, particularly from the United States and Australia. Duchesne recalled instances where guests were willing to pay a premium for a chance to slide down the hill, showcasing the slide’s universal appeal. One memorable incident involved a newlywed bride who was granted a special request to slide down in her wedding dress, highlighting the slide’s allure even in frigid temperatures.
The history of the toboggan slide dates back to 1884, when it was first constructed by Patrick Fitzgerald, a seasonal worker residing in Old Quebec. Since then, the slide has been a beloved attraction, with only a brief hiatus between 1981 and 1991. As the toboggan slide kicks off another season, plans for implementing the refrigeration system are underway, promising an enhanced and extended experience for all thrill-seekers.
In conclusion, the toboggan slide in Quebec City remains a timeless tradition that continues to captivate visitors from near and far. With the upcoming enhancements and extended season, this iconic winter activity is poised to delight guests for years to come. So, gear up, hop on a toboggan, and get ready for an adrenaline-pumping ride down the icy slopes of Dufferin Terrace.
