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The Insider’s Guide to Forillon National Park Wonders

Clever Canadian Written By: January 2025

Cliffs? Twists? And something wild? Sounds like quite the movie, eh? Well, no. I’m just describing Forillon National Park (not a spoiler—you’ve clearly read the title).

On a serious note, this park is like nature’s greatest hits album. Want whales? Done. A lighthouse? Check. Heck, toss in a couple of curious foxes and a giant moose or two while you’re at it. It’s like stepping into a postcard, with jaw-dropping landscapes and wildlife at every turn.

But with so much to see, you might get a little overwhelmed (I know I did!). Luckily, we’ve put together this complete guide to help you navigate and experience Forillon like a true adventurer. Get ready to explore the wild beauty of this coastal gem!

Why visit Forillon National Park?

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Picture this: dramatic cliffs that meet the pounding sea, lush forests winding through peaceful trails, and echoes of Canada’s first settlers in restored heritage sites. Forillon National Park is a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and history.

Every corner of the park has its own story to tell—from the determined fishers of Grande-Grave to the timeless lighthouse standing strong at Land’s End, braving the fierce Atlantic winds. This isn’t just a park for hikers or wildlife lovers (though it’s fantastic for both). 

Where is Forillon National Park?

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Image Source: Google Maps

Forillon National Park is located at the eastern tip of Quebec’s Gaspé Peninsula. It’s bordered by the Gulf of St. Lawrence to the north, the Bay of Gaspé to the east, and forests and terrain to the west and south. This coastal gem marks the very end of the Appalachian Mountains.

What is the main road in Forillon National Park?

In Forillon National Park, the main road to explore is Route 132. This scenic highway winds through the park, connecting visitors to its most iconic sites, including Cap Bon-Ami, Grande-Grave Heritage Site, and Haldimand Beach. 

While Route 132 is the backbone of your Forillon adventure, don’t overlook the smaller trails and side roads that lead to breathtaking lookouts and hidden coves. 

How to Get to Forillon National Park

To reach Forillon National Park by car: Take Route 132, which loops around the Gaspé Peninsula and offers stunning coastal views along the way. The park is an 8-hour drive from Quebec City and about 10 hours from Montreal. 

Parking is available near popular sites like Cap Bon-Ami, Land’s End, and the Grande-Grave Heritage Site. For more details about getting around Quebec City, check this out.

To get to Gaspé by public transit: Take an Intercar bus from Quebec City or Montreal. Once in Gaspé, you’ll need to arrange a taxi or rideshare for the 40-minute trip to the park.

The nearest airport: Michel-Pouliot Gaspé Airport (YGP), with regional flights available from Quebec City and Montreal. From the airport, rent a car or take a taxi for the 40-minute journey to Forillon National Park.

What to See at Forillon National Park

Cap Bon-Ami

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Cap Bon-Ami is one of the park’s must-see spots, offering breathtaking views of cliffs plunging into the blue waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. 

It’s a short walk from the parking area to the main lookout, which provides panoramic vistas of the coastline and the chance to see seabirds nesting in the rocky cliffs. 

There’s also a pebble beach below, perfect for unwinding to the soothing sound of waves or even wading into the water if the weather is warm. Photographers will love how the sunlight plays off the cliffs during different times of the day, especially at sunrise.

Land’s End (Cap-Gaspé)

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There’s something magical about standing at the easternmost point of the park, where the land meets the endless expanse of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. 

Reaching Land’s End involves a hike along the Les Graves Trail, a relatively flat and scenic 8-kilometer round trip that’s worth every step. 

Along the way, you’ll pass rocky shores, wildflower meadows, and quiet forest paths, all culminating in the dramatic sight of Cap-Gaspé’s lighthouse. If you’re lucky, you might even spot whales breaching in the distance or seals bobbing near the shoreline.

Grande-Grave Heritage Site

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Forillon isn’t just about jaw-dropping scenery—it’s a place where history feels alive, especially at the Grande-Grave Heritage Site. This restored 19th-century fishing village gives you a glimpse into the lives of the families who once carved out a living in this beautiful corner of the world.

Stroll through the cozy wooden buildings, from homes to warehouses, and step inside the Hyman & Sons store, where you’ll find fascinating artifacts and displays that bring the region’s fishing past to life. 

And the best part? It’s just a short drive or bike ride from the park entrance, so it’s easy to work into your day of exploring.

Best Hiking Trails and Outdoor Activities at Forillon National Park

Les Graves Trail

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The Les Graves Trail is one of those must-do experiences at Forillon, offering a little bit of everything: stunning coastal views, wildlife sightings, and even a taste of history. 

At 8 kilometres round trip, it’s pretty flat and easy to follow, making it perfect for hikers of all levels. Starting at Grande-Grave, the trail hugs the coastline all the way to Land’s End, with plenty of scenic stops to take in along the way. 

Keep your eyes peeled for seals lounging on the rocks or, if you’re lucky, whales breaking the surface of the water—binoculars are definitely worth packing. The trail also passes by a few small beaches, giving you the perfect spots to take a break or enjoy a snack with a view. 

Mont-Saint-Alban Trail

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For those seeking a bit more of a challenge, the Mont-Saint-Alban Trail rewards hikers with one of the most spectacular views in the park. The trail begins with a steep ascent through a lush forest, where you might spot wildlife like foxes or even the occasional moose. 

After about 3.5 kilometres, you’ll reach the summit, where a wooden lookout tower provides 360-degree views of the surrounding area, including the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Appalachian Mountains. 

The climb is demanding, but the payoff at the top makes it well worth the effort.

Le Portage Trail

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Le Portage is a gentle, family-friendly trail that meanders through the heart of Forillon’s boreal forest. Stretching 10 kilometres round trip, the trail is wide and relatively flat, making it a great option for families with kids or those looking for a more relaxing hike. 

The tranquil setting is ideal for spotting wildlife like birds, porcupines, or even deer, and the forest provides plenty of shade on warm days. It’s a great way to experience the quieter side of Forillon’s natural beauty.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding by Cap AVENTURE FORILLON

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Address: 1228 Boul de Forillon, Gaspé
Contact details: +1 418-892-5056
Opening hours: Schedule varies
Website

If you want to experience Forillon National Park from the water, Cap Aventure Forillon is the way to go. Whether kayaking or paddleboarding, you’ll explore the stunning coastline in an unforgettable way.

Kayaking tours take you through the Gulf of St. Lawrence, with close-up views of towering cliffs, hidden coves, and maybe even seals or whales. The friendly guides share stories about the area’s history and wildlife, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers.

Paddleboarding offers a slower, more relaxed vibe. It’s a chance to soak in the scenery, feel the water beneath you, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Wildlife and Nature at Forillon National Park

Land Wildlife

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Forillon’s forests are absolutely full of wildlife, you might spot majestic creatures like moose, black bears, foxes, and porcupines. Moose are most often seen in the early mornings or late evenings, grazing in the meadows or drinking from ponds. 

Foxes are quicker to spot, darting through the underbrush or foraging in open fields. Black bears are a bit more elusive but can occasionally be seen along trails, and porcupines, though slow, can be found ambling across the forest floor.

The Les Graves and Le Portage trails are fantastic spots to see wildlife but always keep a safe distance. If you want a better view, binoculars are a game-changer, and booking a guided wildlife tour can up your chances. 

Flora and Ecosystems

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Forillon National Park is a plant lover’s dream, with everything from dense boreal forests to vibrant meadows that make any hike feel like a stroll through a living painting. 

As you wander, you’ll find yourself surrounded by towering spruce and fir trees, their branches letting in little beams of sunlight that dance on the forest floor. In the warmer months, wildflowers like lupines and asters blanket the meadows, adding pops of colour and attracting pollinators. 

Along the cliffs, tough coastal plants like sea lavender and beach grass grip the rocks, thriving in the salty air. You’ll also spot all sorts of mushrooms, mosses, and lichens, which give the landscape texture and life.

Whale Watching Cruise by Baleines Forillon

Address: 2448 Bd de Grande-Grève A, Gaspé
Contact details: +1 418-892-5500
Opening hours: Schedule and booking dates vary
Website

If you’re looking to experience Forillon’s majestic marine life up close, a whale-watching cruise with Baleines Forillon is an absolute must. These tours offer spectacular views of the park’s cliffs and coastline, but the real highlight is the chance to spot the incredible whales.

The knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into the local marine ecosystem and share stories about the whales’ seasonal migrations and behaviours. Humpback, minke, and blue whales are common sightings, along with playful seals and seabirds. 

The boats are spacious and comfortable, giving you ample opportunities to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures as they breach or spout in the distance.

Where to Stay at Forillon National Park

Cap-Bon-Ami Campground

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Address: La Côte-de-Gaspé Regional County Municipality
Contact details: [email protected] 
Booking
Website

If you’re looking for a spot with stunning views, Cap-Bon-Ami Campground is hard to beat. Tucked right by the cliffs, it’s small but super cozy, with all the basics you need—fire pits, picnic tables, and restrooms—and, of course, jaw-dropping ocean views. 

It’s also perfectly located, just a short walk from the Cap Bon-Ami lookout and Mont-Saint-Alban Trail, so you’re right in the heart of the action.

Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing against the cliffs and watching the sun rise over the Gulf of St. Lawrence—it’s an experience that really sticks with you. Reserve in advance, especially during the summer months, as this campground is one of the most popular in the park.

Des-Rosiers Campground

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Address: Cap-des-Rosiers
Contact details: +1 418-368-5505  
Booking
Website

Des-Rosiers is the largest campground in Forillon, and for good reason—it has tons of space for both tents and RVs, making it a great choice for all kinds of campers. 

It’s conveniently located near the park’s northern entrance, so you’re close to Land’s End and the Grande-Grave Heritage Site, which is perfect if you’re planning to explore. Many sites are right by the water, so you’ll get amazing sunset views and the calming sound of waves to fall asleep to. 

Plus, the campground has all the modern amenities you’ll need, like showers, laundry facilities, and potable water, making it super comfortable for families or anyone planning to stay a little longer.

Petit-Gaspé Campground 

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Address: La Côte-de-Gaspé Regional County Municipality
Contact details: +1 418-368-5505
Booking
Website

Petit-Gaspé Campground is all about comfort and relaxation—a wooded campground with a mix of 101 sites without electricity, 35 with electricity, and 31 with both water and electricity. There are also 6 pull-through sites, which are perfect for RVs.

For families, there’s a swimming pool and a playground nearby, so there’s something for everyone. If you need to do some laundry, there are coin-operated machines on-site, and a dumping station is conveniently located at the campground entrance.

Throughout the summer, you can also enjoy talks at the amphitheatre, adding a fun and educational touch to your stay. With water outlets along the loops and all the necessary amenities, it offers a comfortable base for exploring the beauty of Forillon National Park.

oTENTik Tents

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Locations: Des-Rosiers Campground, North Area; Petit-Gaspé oTENTik Campground, South Area
Contact details: [email protected] 
Booking
Website

For a more luxurious take on camping, Forillon’s oTENTik tents blend the comforts of home with the charm of outdoor living. These fully equipped canvas tents include beds, lighting, and heating, making them perfect for families or those new to camping. 

Situated at several campgrounds, they offer easy access to trails and attractions while providing a cozy retreat after a day of exploring.

FAQs for Visiting Forillon National Park

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