One of the highlights of Quebec was Gaspésie Park for its vast landscape, unique plant species, and really fun hikes!
This is the second oldest provincial park in Quebec (the oldest being Mont-Tremblant), it is managed by Sépaq and is not a federal park. This park is unique in having 3 distinct elevation zones and it’s alpine elevation zone is home to some rare plant species found no where else in the world (the Green Scaled Willow and Mt Albert Goldenrod)! We didn’t get to alpine level this time due to trail closures (more on that below).
You can access this beautiful landscape 40 kms South of Saint-Anne-des-Monts or 106 km North from New Richmond. Whichever route you take, don’t drive at night as there is a large population of moose here and neither the human or the moose want a collision. We did see a sad scene of a moose that had been hit by a vehicle. Unfortunately, that moose was only the second moose we spotted. The first, was a skeleton of a large moose just off the trail, likely died of natural causes many months ago. We were not lucky enough to spot a live moose on this trip.
In Gaspésie Park, hiking and relaxing by the river are top activities. There are so many trails to explore, ranging from easy, intermediate, difficult, to expert. Our one night in this park meant we only had time for three hikes. I will outline them below.
1. Pic du Brûlé from Lac Cascapédia camp site: a highly rewarding 14 km looping trail along part of the International Appalachian Trail (Quebec portion). The trail follows up Mont-Ernest-Ménard, down the valley, along a stream, and up Pic du Brûle, before venturing down and returning to Lac Cascapédia. This hike was labeled difficult, but if you are a regular hiker then you will be fine. It was muddy and there was a lot of moose poop to dodge, but I am so grateful that we got to experience this hike and its stunning panoramic views. We felt as those we were in the middle of no where, and only saw three groups of people in the first 30 minutes of the hike. The remaining 4 hours was just the two of us, trekking.
2. Mont Ernest-Laforce: a gentle climb up 155m to 360 degree views of the mountains. This loop trail was labeled intermediate, so if you are and infrequent hiker or not used to hiking up elevation, you can definitely still do it with breaks and proper hydration/ calorie intake. As you hike, you’ll enjoy many birch trees holding strong as the trail cuts through boreal forest. At the top, you can sit and enjoy the mountain peaks surrounding you.
3. La Chute Sainte-Anne: an easy (flat and wide trail) out-and-back that will take you to a beautiful waterfall and bridge. Near the visitor center, this is a lovely way to greet or bid adieu the land.
Worth returning for
We will be back to this park for more hiking and exploring. When we do, we plan to check out these hikes:
- Mont Olivine for a peaceful walk in the woods up to a ridgeline for views of the mountains above
- Mont Jacques-Cartier: 8km up 465m elevation. This trail is only open from July 1 to September 30, to protect the highly endangered Caribou, allowing them to mate, feed, and calve.
- Mont Albert (Northern slope) or la Tour du Mont Albert: 11 – 17km up 860m elevation. Opens once deemed safe (snow levels and the for vulnerable caribou and plants).
- Mont Xalibu: 10km up 540m elevation
and so many more!
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