- The National Park is considered one of the most beautiful outdoor sites in Quebec. A beautiful and immense forest, which extends over more than 536 km2 with no less than 150 lakes! This is called a VERY popular playground for nature lovers. The park is accessible by the “Promenade route”, which crosses the territory from one end to the other for more than 63 kilometres. We’re talking about 2 to 3 hours by car, it all depends on whether you stop to admire the magnificent views offered by the belvederes. Favorite stops: the Belvédère du Passage and the Belvédère de l’Île-aux-Pins.
- A must in the Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc sector: the short hike to the Cascades (about an 1 hour walk). This pleasant trail leads to impressive waterfalls where you can cool off and bask in the sun on large rocks. As for the entrance from Saint-Gérard-des-Laurentides, the Chutes Waber excursion is super popular. This trip combines canoeing + hiking. From the Wapizagonke Lake, you’ll need 6 to 8 hours to make the round trip (about 9 km of canoeing and 8 km of hiking). We can say that the view of its superb falls is worth it!
- Located in the center of the park, a 20-minutes drive from the reception center of Saint-Jean-des-Piles, Lake Edouard’s beach is the favorite spot for young families. Did you know that you can book a canoe online, but also a kayak or a paddle board?
- At the other end, the reception of Saint-Jean-des-Piles offers several hiking trails with more than 160 km of trails for all levels. Among the essential activities of the park, there’s also road biking, which is, according to many experienced cyclists, one of the most beautiful roads in Quebec to ride! As it’s dotted with hills, turns and descents, it is however not recommended for beginner cyclists or small families.
- As for fishing, yes, it’s possible, but it’s in the form of a DRAW. You must register in advance on the Parks Canada website. If you’re fortunate enough to be among the lucky ones to come out in the draw, know that you’ll be able to cast your line and catch brook trout, better known as “truite mouchetée”.
- Sleep in the Park one night or more to take a look at the stars away from the city lights. Many options will allow it: Otentik tents, Domaine Wabenaki-Andrew and the classic camping. Psst! Admission to La Mauricie National Park is free for people 17 and under!
- To contact La Mauricie National Park: 1 888 773-8888 / To reserve a campsite or an oTENTik: 1 877-737-3783 or reservation.pc.gc.ca
La Mauricie National Park in summer
