With more than 30 kilometres of trails, Parc national des Grands-Jardins is one of the leading destinations for hiking in Quebec. The park protects a one-of-a-kind ecosystem nicknamed the “island of the Far North” for its northern vegetation, a rarity this far south in the province. Ordinarily, visitors would have to travel as far as the 52nd parallel to walk across a similar carpet of lichen. Dotted with peaks and granite domes, the park encompasses no fewer than 120 bodies of water and three types of forest, including boreal taiga. Its varied plant life supports equally rich wildlife, including several threatened or vulnerable species. Among them is the spruce grouse, a short-winged bird sometimes spotted near the hiking trails. The park is also known for Mont du Lac des Cygnes, whose 980-metre summit offers one of the most spectacular panoramas in Quebec.

Parc national des Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie is another dramatic natural wonder. Deep glacial valleys cut through towering rock walls that rise as high as 800 metres. The park is open in winter, when weather and ice conditions allow, and gives visitors the opportunity to explore the Vallée des Glaces, a unique route along the frozen Malbaie River. Dramatic changes in elevation, the river’s winding course and numerous waterfalls create an unforgettable landscape. The park is also home to the Acropole des Draveurs trail, one of the best-known hikes in Quebec.

The Société des établissements de plein air du Québec (Sépaq) is responsible for protecting these exceptional areas. Its work includes raising public awareness of ecological issues, encouraging visitors to learn more about the land, preserving biodiversity and managing recreational activities throughout its network. The Sépaq also collaborates with scientific research organizations to help ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy Quebec’s natural heritage.

National parks